On Sunday, Sept. 13, more than 18 United Methodist churches in the Northern Illinois Conference turned their faith into action, hosting events to demonstrate that United Methodists and people from different faith traditions stand with and support immigrants. 

Members of the group at Renewed Hope UMC in Chicago stand with the banner displayed at their event that featured yard signs in English and Spanish featuring stories of immigrants, migrants, and refugees, along with statistics about those detained, arrested, deported, or harmed. Photo courtesy of Jill Farrar

The events were both large and small, taking many forms but sharing a common message: people of faith can raise their voices together in support of the dignity, worth and rights of immigrants. 

At Antioch United Methodist Church, about 30 people gathered for prayer, song and reflection. Their witness extended beyond those gathered together, as people driving along Main Street honked in support. The encouragement from passersby reminded those gathered that even a small gathering can make a meaningful public statement. 

In Naperville, the witness took to the streets, beginning with a prayer from Pastor Jacob Tipantasig-Wolverton. Clergy and members from Community UMC, New Hope UMC, First Congregational Church and Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Naperville, along with Hope UMC in West Chicago, then marched out of the church singing “We Shall Overcome.” More than 60 people marched, sang and prayed their way through the neighborhood. 

At ChristFirst, A United Methodist Congregation in Elmhurst, nearly 60 people of faith gathered at a local park for a vigil of remembrance. Participants included people from Bensenville UMC, Hinsdale UMC, First Congregational UCC, Bethel UCC and St. Peter’s UCC. Local advocacy organizations also provided opportunities for participants to learn about ways they could continue putting their faith into action. 

Friendship UMC in Bolingbrook gathered for a rally following a worship that focused on standing with immigrants. After the service, members marched to the roadside with signs, reminding the community not only what they oppose, but also what they stand for. 

Members at Wesley UMC in Aurora hosted a story walk and rally. Photo courtesy of Rev. Tammy Scott.

Other communities across the Conference found creative ways to make their witness visible. First UMC in Des Plaines created a Pinwheels for Peace installation, while Wesley UMC in Aurora hosted a story walk, with their rally. At First UMC in Glen Ellyn, participants gathered outside around a table displaying objects representing immigrant journeys, reflected on statements from the UMC Social Principles, participated in a litany for people in migration, and sang a hymn. 

The September gatherings built on a public witness that took place earlier this summer at the NIC Annual Conference. Nearly 200 clergy and laity participated, praying, singing, carrying signs and proclaiming that immigrant neighbors are beloved children of God, worthy of dignity, justice and compassion. 

Across Northern Illinois, the Sept. 13 gatherings offered opportunities for prayer, reflection, conversation and public witness. While each community shaped its event differently, together they demonstrated the strength of a connectional church raising its voice in support of immigrants. Through gatherings large and small, United Methodists and their faith partners put our Social Principles into action, declaring together that United Methodists stand with immigrants. 

Read Pastor Tércio of Friendship UMC in Bolingbrook's reflection about the importance of the rally.

Check out more images from events and signs from around the conference.