Dear Siblings in Christ,

In the face of violence and injustice across the country and around the world, we are called as a church to walk with each other. In recent weeks, we are especially called to be with our siblings in Minneapolis as they work to protect their neighbors and stand up against oppression and injustice. We join in prayer and in tangible support, trusting that shared witness and shared resources can strengthen ministries and protect the most vulnerable among us.

Part of walking together is uplifting the good work already happening on the ground. The ELCA and Minnesota Synods have identified trusted channels through which resources can be shared responsibly. If you are looking for ways to help, here are several meaningful avenues:

1.    Bishop Jen Nagel  and the Minneapolis Area Synod have made statements about the violence in their community and identified resources to show up for our immigrant neighbors. They’ve also established the Welcome Fund, which distributes funds to Lutheran congregations and authorized worshipping communities to aid in their efforts in providing mutual aid to community members and organizing immigration-related advocacy efforts. You can learn more about the Welcome Fund and make a donation here.

2.    AMPARO and sanctuary-aligned ministries. In Spanish, “amparo” means the protection of a living creature from suffering. The ELCA’s Accompanying Migrants with Protection, Advocacy, Representation and Opportunities ministry works to accompany migrant families through their Guardian Angel program. You can learn more and donate here.

Financial support is an expression of both solidarity and stewardship. These efforts reflect our shared commitment to accompany, protect, and sustain communities under pressure.

Thank you for considering how you might participate in this work.

Peace and Partnership,

Mr. Branden Dupree
Director for Evangelical Mission / Advocacy Coordinator

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