Read the January 2025 letter from Bishop Laurie Larson Caesar and the other ELCA Region One bishops.

As Lutherans, we are called to live out the teachings of Jesus Christ, who welcomed strangers and emphasized love, mercy, and justice for all people. We believe that every human being, regardless of their country of origin or legal status, is created in the image of God and has inherent dignity and worth. This foundational truth compels us to approach the issue of immigration with compassion and a commitment to the common good.

The ELCA’s strategy of Accompanying Migrants with Protection, Advocacy, Representation, and Opportunities (AMMPARO) was envisioned after witnessing the plight of migrants who are forced to flee their communities for complex and interrelated reasons, including chronic violence, poverty, environmental displacement, and lack of opportunities. It is a holistic, whole church commitment by the ELCA, as a church in the world, to accompany migrant families today and in the future.

 These partners also offer resources, trainings, and ways to advocate

• Global Refuge (formerly Lutheran Immigration & Refugee Services)
• Lutheran Community Services Northwest (and their program Refugees Northwest)
• ELCA Lutheran Public Policy Office