Serving All Who Are Redeemed
Finally, all of you, have unity of spirit, sympathy, love for one another, a tender heart, and a humble mind. Do not repay evil for evil or abuse for abuse; but, on the contrary, repay with a blessing. It is for this that you were called—that you might inherit a blessing.
1 Peter 3:8-9
Friends,
Here at University we don’t all root for the same teams, listen to the same music, enjoy the same food, or vote for the same candidates. We are united in our commitment to Christ and in serving His cause in the world. We are a diverse community of people united in purpose and mission.
The situation on the border and the status of asylum seekers and immigrants has produced no shortage of political tension and commentary. I have no illusions that everyone at University shares the same perspective on how to address or even think about this crises. Whether you believe that the entirety of the border should have a fortified wall or you think that the U.S. should not maintain formal borders of any kind, I believe we can still be united in reducing the suffering of others and showing compassion to our neighbors. Whatever political or legal response to the current moment we may support, we share the conviction that every human being in which a heart beats is someone who is made in the image of God and someone that Jesus went to the cross to redeem.
Rooted in that conviction, we have partnered with several organizations that are on the front line of easing suffering, reducing burdens and opening legal avenues for immigrants and asylum seekers.
On June 26, a ministry of Eagle Pass First Methodist Church, Mission: Border Hope, opened a resource center for asylum seeking families passing through the Eagle Pass port of entry. They coordinate with Border Patrol and local churches to help the families receive a meal, clothes and travel information. You can donate funds here and needed resources from Amazon here. If you prefer, donations can also be made to University and designated Eagle Pass.
Travis Park Church, as part of the San Antonio Interfaith Welcoming Coalition, is actively supporting the migrant crisis in San Antonio. People can volunteer to serve the migrant population here. No special language skills are required to volunteer, but they are in need of people with Spanish, French, Swahili and Arabic language skills. Donations can be made through University and designated Welcoming Ministries.
Justice for our Neighbors provides legal services for immigrants. The naturalization and immigration process can be complex and challenging and SAJFON offers services, resources and legal counsel to our neighbors navigating it. You can donate directly or learn more here.
If you have questions, wish to serve or want to contribute in other ways, feel free to contact me or Steve Ryan ( ) who directs our outreach efforts.
Blessings,
Pastor Ben