In a world where faith often meets adversity, the story of Kenia Colindres and her husband, Wilson Velásquez, shines a light on the intersection of immigration, faith, and community support. Fleeing violence in Honduras, the couple embarked on a perilous journey to seek asylum in the United States, a journey marked by hope, perseverance, and the unwavering strength of their Christian faith.
Kenia Colindres, who began her journey with a fast, sought divine guidance throughout their 2,000-mile trek from Honduras to the U.S. border. Upon arrival, the family faced the daunting reality of immigration procedures. After turning themselves in to U.S. authorities, they were assigned a court date years away, leaving them in a state of uncertainty. However, Kenia knew that God had a plan for them: find a church community.
Settling in suburban Atlanta, the Colindres family found solace in a local Pentecostal church. As they became integral members of the congregation, Wilson secured a job at a tire shop, working tirelessly to provide for his family. Despite the challenges, he made it a priority to engage with his children, asking about their day and fostering a loving home environment.
Their life took a dramatic turn when, during a church service, Wilson was unexpectedly apprehended by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. The incident sent shockwaves through the congregation, leaving Kenia and the children in a state of fear and confusion. “What’s happening to my husband?” she recalled asking the agents, who had taken Wilson away despite his compliance with immigration regulations.
Kenia’s story is not just about personal loss; it reflects larger issues facing immigrant communities in the U.S. The incident raised questions about the safety of places of worship, especially for undocumented immigrants. Historically, churches have served as sanctuaries for those seeking refuge, but recent policy shifts have blurred the lines of safety. As reported by the American Civil Liberties Union, ICE has increasingly targeted sensitive locations, including churches, which has left many congregations feeling vulnerable.
Pastor Luis Ortiz, who leads the Colindres family’s church, expressed the fear that gripped the congregation. “We are a community of faith, and we should be a safe haven,” he said, emphasizing the need for churches to remain places of refuge for those in need. This sentiment echoes a broader call within the Christian community to advocate for immigrant rights and support those facing deportation.
In the wake of Wilson’s arrest, Kenia has remained steadfast in her faith. She continues to attend church, praying for her husband and trusting in God’s plan. “We’re under God’s covering,” she stated, embodying the resilience that many immigrant families possess in the face of adversity. Her story serves as a reminder of the importance of community support, prayer, and unwavering faith during challenging times.
The Colindres family’s experience underscores the urgent need for dialogue around immigration reform and the role of faith communities in providing support and advocacy. As churches grapple with the implications of recent policy changes, many are stepping up to reaffirm their commitment to being a safe space for all.
For those interested in learning more about the intersection of faith and immigration, resources such as the National Immigration Forum provide valuable information on advocacy efforts and ways to support immigrant families. Additionally, organizations like Church World Service offer opportunities for churches to engage in meaningful outreach and support for refugees and asylum seekers.
As the Colindres family navigates this challenging chapter, their story serves as a powerful reminder of the strength found in faith, community, and the pursuit of justice. In a world that often feels divided, it is the stories of resilience and hope that unite us and inspire us to stand together in solidarity with those in need.