In recent months, the issue of immigration has risen to the forefront of public conversation in Canada, the United States, and beyond. Many of World Renew’s supporting individuals and church congregations include immigrants and have a long history of welcoming and supporting immigrants and refugees. At the same time, some of our brothers and sisters in Christ have expressed concerns about changing immigration policies and the broader discourse surrounding immigration.
In the United States, programs have been cancelled, families are afraid to attend church together, and some face deportation due to policy changes. Some individuals have reported increased suspicion, arrests, and detention.
In Canada, immigration targets have been reduced, limiting opportunities to provide protection and safety to refugees fleeing war and persecution. In addition, some refugee sponsorship streams are experiencing longer wait times or have been paused, and organizations that support refugees and newcomers are facing funding cuts.
Our Biblical Foundation and Calling
World Renew offers the following as a reminder of our position on immigration and migration.
Recognizing that we are all outsiders who have been grafted into God’s people by his unmerited grace (Romans 9:6–29; 11:17–21), we believe that God calls us to show the same love and welcome to migrants, refugees, and immigrants in our communities and countries around the world.
The Lord our God loves and defends the cause of the orphan, the widow, and the immigrant (Deuteronomy 10:17–20). We believe that the church of Christ is “not confined, bound, or limited to a certain place or certain persons…but is spread and dispersed throughout the entire world…” (Belgic Confession Art. 27). Together, we look forward to the day when God’s people from every nation, tribe, and language will worship before Christ’s throne (Revelation 7:9).
Our Ongoing Response
World Renew is committed to addressing the root causes of migration by working to alleviate conditions such as poverty, conflict, and natural disasters that force people to leave their homes. Through our programs and partnerships, we strive to help build sustainable communities where people can thrive.
We also highlight the impactful work taking place through World Renew’s refugee resettlement efforts in Canada. Through the dedication and compassion of supporting churches and Christians, many refugees have found safety, new homes, and hope for the future. This reflects a broader, shared commitment across our global community to live out our faith through acts of love and service.
We invite churches and individuals everywhere to join us in prayer and in supporting those affected by ongoing changes in immigration policies.
