A group of panelists at the CWS Summit on Immigration Reform, October 7, 2013. Photo: Jim Coates/jimcoatesphotography.com
More than 300 high-ranking faith leaders and activists from more than 39 U.S. states have joined CWS staff in the inaugural CWS Summit on Immigration Reform.
“The deportation of more than 1,000 people every day is a moral stain on our country,” CWS President and CEO, the Rev. John L. McCullough told a crowd representing more than 18 faith traditions and 37 organizations.
The Washington, D.C. event is an opportunity for the church to live out its moral imperative to create just and welcoming communities. A day of plenary sessions, workshops and networking comes to life on Capitol Hill Tuesday in a press event and series of visits with lawmakers.
The goal is for Congress to pass immigration reform that is fair and just.
“We are not a fear-based society,” the Rev. Randy Meyer said. Meyer is senior pastor at Good Shepherd United Church of Christ in Sahuarita, Ariz. His church assists migrants in their treacherous journey in desert. “We are a welcoming society. This is a core value of our faith.”