Dear Friends,

As I’m sure you know, the recent sermon by Bishop Mariann Budde (the Bishop of Washington DC) at the Service of Prayer for the Nation has placed the Episcopal Church in the national spotlight. Her call for mercy, justice, and unity in the face of division and fear has resonated deeply with many, but it has also led to a wave of criticism. 

This past Sunday, our beloved St. Paul’s Cathedral in San Diego and the nearby Ohr Shalom Synagogue were vandalized. 

St. Paul’s was marked with graffiti and the chilling sight of crosshair targets on its walls. The juxtaposition of profound truth-telling and the backlash it sometimes elicits is not unfamiliar. Yet, these recent actions remind us of the importance of our call to be merciful, even in the face of hostility–holding fast to our identity as people of hope, truth, and grace.

I used to have a deacon who often said, “You know you’re doing something right when evil attacks you.” Jesus put the same thought this way in the Beatitudes:

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.

“Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.

“Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.

“Blessed are those who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

“Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. Matthew 5:3-11. 

In moments like this, we are reminded of Christ’s teachings on mercy. Mercy is not a passive act; it requires courage to stand firm in love and truth when confronted with hatred. Our commitment to justice and unity must be unwavering, even when it invites criticism or opposition.

Within the church, in times like these, we can all listen to and learn from one another and from the words of scripture. I ask all of us to work in the months and years to come toward a better understanding of one another, and a special effort to love and learn from those with whom we disagree, as long as disagreements remain civil. I believe there is much we can agree on in our church. We can declare together that Christ’s mission is our mission, and that Jesus is our savior, not any worldly administration, laws, or policies. And we can work together to carry out Christ’s mission among those who are poor, oppressed, and suffering in the world. The Episcopal Church stands for full love and inclusion for all God’s people, and we will continue to support those in need of mercy – both God’s mercy and that of human beings.

Let us come together as a diocese to pray for our community, leaders, and those who seek to harm or intimidate. May our prayers be a source of strength and resolve as we continue to uphold the values of mercy, justice, and unity. Let us take tangible steps to protect our communities, offering reassurance and peace to those who may feel vulnerable and scared in these times. As a diocesan community, we must take practical steps to ensure the safety of our churches and congregations:

• Review and update safety plans: Ensure that your community is equipped with clear protocols for responding to potential threats or disruptions.
• Increase awareness: Assign additional ushers or volunteers during services to watch for any unusual activity.
• Report concerns promptly: If you receive threatening or aggressive communications, forward them to Jeff Green at jgreen@edsd.org for further assistance.

Even as we navigate these challenges, our calling remains unchanged. We are to live as witnesses to the courageous love of Christ, embodying mercy and grace in a world that desperately needs both – not allowing fear or anger to define our response, but rather the boundless compassion and forgiveness of our Savior.

Of course, none of us know what prompted the outpouring of anger at St. Paul’s Cathedral. We cannot know whether the perpetrator is angry at organized religion in general, at the Episcopal Church after Bishop Mariann Budde’s message, or at St. Paul’s Cathedral.

What we do know is that someone responded with hate to the good news of God’s love, welcome, and inclusion of all people–inclusion not just those of us in church, but everyone: immigrants, refugees, LGBTQ+ people, people of all races and nationalities.

My heart breaks for those who react with hate to God’s love poured out for all. 

I give thanks to St. Paul’s, which has been an example of Christ’s love in our San Diego community for many years. I give thanks for the leadership of Dean Penny Bridges and all the other clergy and lay leaders who make the Episcopal Church such a bright, shining light of God’s love.

Blessed is St. Paul’s, and blessed are all of our congregations because you show forth God’s love for all people.

Prayerfully,

Bishop Susan Brown Snook

Join us on March 1 for Leadership Academy, a day dedicated to learning, growth, and connection within our diocesan community. This is an opportunity for clergy and lay leaders—both new and experienced—to come together, explore new ideas, and develop skills for impactful ministry. One of the most remarkable blessings of our diocese is the depth of wisdom and talent within its leaders, and Leadership Academy celebrates and builds upon that shared strength.

Beginning the day with Holy Eucharist in the sanctuary of St Dunstan’s Episcopal Church in San Diego, we will ground ourselves in worship and prepare for a day of learning. Throughout the day, there will be opportunities to connect with friends and colleagues from across the diocese, deepening the relationships that support our shared ministry. We will close with a time of reflection, centering God in all that we do and marking our commitment to serve with courage and love. 

Leadership Academy offers the chance to choose, à la carte, from three tracks, each designed to inspire and equip you for leadership in diverse contexts.

REGISTER TODAY!

Foundations

Safe Church, Safe Communities (CLASS IS FULL)

This session focuses on the Church’s responsibility to ensure safety, integrity, and trust within its community. Participants will receive training on ethical and theological expectations placed on church workers/volunteers, the impact of misconduct, and the Church’s commitment to creating spaces where individuals and families are secure and valued. Safe Church, Safe Communities training is required for all volunteer and employment positions throughout the diocese. This training will take place over two workshop times. In order to complete all the necessary aspects of the training and receive a certificate, you must attend both sessions.

Youth Faith Formation – Beyond Grub and Games

Members of the EDSD Youth Leadership Council will hold this informative session addressing many of the questions we hear most often. What makes them feel included in church? What makes them feel left out? What do they value most in youth group? How do they serve at church? How would they like to? Come and hear directly from the council!

Storytelling

Crafting Compelling Narratives for Ministry

Explore how storytelling captures attention and keeps readers engaged. This session will demonstrate the power of weaving a consistent narrative layer into your long-form content to attract and retain a loyal readership. Learn practical techniques for making your writing more compelling and memorable.

Stories in Motion: Lessons from A Case for Love

Join Grace Based Films Director Brian Ide, whose recent nationwide release A Case For Love has captivated audiences, for an engaging session on video storytelling. Using excerpts from the film, we’ll explore how to share impactful stories through video, focusing on techniques that resonate and inspire. Whether you’re new to video or looking to enhance your skills, this workshop will provide valuable insights into crafting authentic and compelling visual narratives.

The Art of Visual Storytelling

Discover the art of storytelling through photography. This session will explore how each photo tells a unique story, covering photography basics and why photos look the way they do. Learn how to use images effectively to share the mission and vision of your church with authenticity and impact.

Welcome

Accessibility in Action

Join the Accessibility Group from St. Dunstan’s as they share their journey toward creating an inclusive and welcoming campus. This session will explore their innovative efforts, including a creative video, assistance for people with hearing loss, ramps and wheelchair-accessible seating, large-print materials, gluten-free communion options, and a quiet room for sensory-sensitive individuals. Learn practical strategies and gain inspiration for making your church more accessible to all.

Rhythms of Grace – Worship that engages across the spectrum of neurodiversity

Join members from St. Brigid’s Oceanside and St. Peter’s Del Mar as they tell stories of their work embracing neurodiversity and promoting inclusion in their worship spaces. 

“The Episcopal Church Welcomes You”: Becoming the Church We Say We Are

“The Episcopal Church Welcomes You” is a slogan emblazoned on many of our congregational signs, promotional materials, and websites. This workshop features leaders from Uptown Community Services, EDSD’s LGBTQIA+ Inclusion Taskforce, and EDSD’s multicultural congregations. You are invited to this honest, reflective, and generative conversation on how we can better live into our declaration of Christ-like welcome.

My heart is heavy with the news of the devastating fires sweeping across Los Angeles. The destruction is unimaginable, and my prayers are with every person affected. As a bishop, but also as a neighbor, I feel a deep sense of responsibility to respond with action. It is these moments that remind me of the fragility of our world but also the strength found in our community–acting on God’s love for one another.

I’ve been moved by the stories I’ve heard from the Diocese of Los Angeles. Their churches have opened their doors to evacuees, offering safe havens for those who have been forced to leave everything behind. Pastoral care teams are walking alongside families who are grieving the loss of homes and livelihoods. Diocesan leaders are working hand in hand with Episcopal Relief & Development to bring essential resources to where they are needed most. This is the church in action—a tangible expression of God’s love in the midst of heartbreak.

If you feel called to help, I urge you to visit the Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles’s Fire Response and Resources page. There, you can learn more about their efforts, volunteer opportunities, and ways to support their work financially. Donations to Episcopal Relief & Development are particularly impactful. 

While helping those in Los Angeles, we must remain vigilant in our own region. Here in San Diego, we are no strangers to the dangers of wildfire. We must be prepared. I encourage all our congregations to develop fire evacuation plans, safeguard church properties, and check in on vulnerable community members. The Diocese of San Diego has resources available to help you prepare. Proactive steps taken now can save lives and help ensure that we are ready to respond with care and compassion if disaster strikes close to home. Review this article, the EDSD News published in August 2024, for resources and actionable steps to make your church prepared for a disaster. 

It is also essential to remember that recovery is a long-term process. When the flames are extinguished and the news cameras move on, the work of rebuilding lives and communities will continue. As followers of Christ, we are called to journey alongside those in need for the long haul. Let us be unwavering in our support, offering our prayers, our resources, and our presence as they navigate the road to healing.

In the Diocese of San Diego, we often speak of “Courageous Love,” because we know that hard things take courage. Supporting our siblings in Los Angeles, preparing our own communities for future challenges, and walking alongside those who are suffering—these acts require both courage and love.

Thank you for the outpouring of messages from across our diocese asking how you can help our neighbors in Los Angeles. These messages of concern and offers of support are a beautiful testament to who we are as a diocese—a community rooted in love, compassion, and a willingness to act when others are in need. Your response reflects the heart of Christ’s call to love one another. I am profoundly grateful for each of you.

In Christ,

Bishop Susan Brown Snook

Agape San Diego stands as a vibrant testimony to the power of presence and the transformative love of Jesus Christ. Based on the bustling San Diego State University and UC San Diego campuses, this campus ministry has grown into a space where people from all walks of life—students, faculty, staff, and even members of the broader community—find belonging, dignity, and spiritual nourishment.

Eight decades of presence at SDSU have seen different expressions of what Campus Ministry can be, but what lies ahead for Agape San Diego?  Listening is at the root of our ministry, so the answer is exciting and rooted in the mission we’ve always embraced: building deeper connections with local churches, offering new opportunities for student bible study, and introducing people to Jesus Christ by being the people of Jesus Christ. As we look ahead to 2025, we aim to deepen this presence by expanding partnerships with local churches. Agape provides a unique bridge between the church and the university. By fostering these connections, we can enrich student ministry and create opportunities for churches. 

Agape San Diego is about collaboration. Already, churches like St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Ramona, Faith Presbyterian in San Diego, St. Timothy’s in Rancho Peñesquitos, St. James Episcopal Church in La Jolla, St. Andrew’s Lutheran in San Diego, St. Dunstan’s Episcopal in San Diego, Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran in La Mesa, Good Samaritan Episcopal Church in University City, and so many more stand alongside Agape–offering prayers, resources, and a shared vision for ministry. But we believe this is just the beginning.

We are actively inviting local Episcopal and ELCA Lutheran congregations to join us in supporting and shaping this work. These partnerships can take many forms:

Sponsor Pizza

Twice each week (Tuesdays at UCSD & Wednesdays at SDSU) Agape provides a meal and community with students, faculty, and staff.  You or your congregation can sponsor this time once a month, weekly, one time at one campus or a combination of all these.  This is our time in the community, from which all connections grow, where all are welcome to rest and refresh amid the craziness of campus life.

Invite me to your church

I regularly visit congregations to preach the gospel, share student stories, and work with church leaders to wonder about how Parish Life and Campus Life can mesh.

Plan a campus visit

We can work together for a convenient time to join the community as we continue to preach the gospel at all times and, when necessary, use words.

Join us for worship

Listening to our students, we have heard a desire to share spiritual practices. Since “church” is a heavy word these days, 2025 will bring Sunday at Six as a time to gather around a bonfire, share ways to pray, and grow in community at SDSU.

Visit AgapeSanDiego.org to read more about our ministry, student’s stories, and our building project for intentional community at SDSU.

The stories coming out of Agape San Diego continue to illustrate the power of this ministry to transform lives. Luca, a student at SDSU, found peace and belonging through a retreat at Camp Stevens. In contrast, Joseph, a returning student after incarceration, deepened his faith through conversations about the commonalities across religions.  Agustino found community while studying at SDSU from Australia. These are a few examples of how Agape meets people where they are and helps them move closer to the love of God in Christ.

As we look to the future, we believe that these transformations will only multiply. By strengthening our connections with local churches, offering opportunities for bible study, and continuing to provide spaces of kindness and presence, we are laying the foundation for a ministry that introduces countless students to Jesus Christ and equips them to share His love with others.

At Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe’s investiture, The Archbishop of The Province of the Episcopal Church of South Sudan, Justin Badi Arama, inspired me by calling for “careful discernment” and “great kindness.” This is the heart of Agape San Diego—a ministry of presence and love, rooted in Jesus Christ and open to all.

Together, let us build a future where the love of God shines brightly in the lives of students, staff, faculty, and all who encounter Agape San Diego.  Email me directly greg@agapesandiego.org, visit AgapeSanDiego.org to learn more, and join us in this holy work.

Dear Friends,

Today we offer prayers for our neighbors in the Los Angeles region who are suffering from wildfires, with severe fires burning and thousands of evacuations. I have asked my colleague, Bishop John Taylor in the Diocese of Los Angeles, to let me know if we can help in any way. San Diego County experiences the same wildfire risk, with Santa Ana winds expected to peak today and several other times in coming days, and extremely dry conditions. According to the news, areas of special concern include northern San Diego County, Interstate 8 east of Alpine, the Palomar Mountain area, and areas around state route 94. SDGE may be shutting off power to some high-risk areas.

Today, we urge all churches, especially those in high-risk areas, to make sure they are prepared for fire danger. Here is an article about fire preparedness that we published last August.  Please make sure you have a full list of contact information for all parishioners (available somewhere other than the church), and have a plan to contact members in case of evacuations in your area. Consider whether your church could serve as a temporary evacuation shelter if necessary, and how you would get supplies to that shelter.

Episcopal Relief & Development offers the following fire preparedness resources and suggestions:

1. Make sure everyone has a go-bag 

2. Churches should work through ERD’s disaster timeline preparedness activity.

3. There are also congregational preparedness guides and other risk-reduction modules in ERD’s  resource library. FEMA has fire specific prep resources in multiple languages.

My prayers are with all of you today. Please let our office know if you experience any fires or other dangerous events in your area by contacting Chris Tumilty at CTumilty@edsd.org or Canon Jason Evans at JEvans@edsd.org.

A prayer for those in danger from wildfires today and for those suffering from them, especially in the Diocese of LA:

O God, our refuge and strength,
our help in times of trouble.
Have mercy on the lands
damaged by fires.
Guard and protect first responders
and those who care for others in danger.
Protect those who evacuate houses,
and give them shelter and encouragement
to face the days to come.
Strengthen those who rebuild hope,
so that entire communities
may face the future without fear,
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.

In Christ,

Bishop Susan

Last fall, I joined a group of 25 ecumenical Asian American ministry leaders for an Asian American Civil Rights Tour across the state of California. The tour was organized and sponsored by the Asian American Christian Collaborative and Asian American Futures. Over the course of five days, we visited historical sites that we don’t usually read about in high school textbooks. 

Toward the end of our tour, our group visited the International Hotel in San Francisco, also known as the I-Hotel. The I-Hotel was home to many low-income immigrant workers hired by the city in the 1960s and 70s. According to our tour guide and the newspaper clippings adorning the current I-Hotel’s walls, in its heyday, the I-Hotel also served as a key gathering space not only for the immigrants who lived there but for many people of color in the Bay Area at the time. This mash-up of diverse cultures and circumstances made the I-Hotel a cultural center and an idea incubator. 

These days, the I-Hotel is best known as the birthplace of the affordable housing rights movement. In 1968, city officials announced plans to demolish the I-Hotel, leaving many residents displaced. Residents, alongside other organizers and supporters, began a 9-year-long grassroots campaign resisting the eviction. In 1977, police arrived to forcibly remove the residents from the premises, only to be met by a 3,000-person barricade surrounding the I-Hotel. Rows of protestors linked at the elbows spilled over the sidewalk in defense of the dignity and the pursuit of happiness of all those in residence of the International Hotel. 

Our group stood on those same sidewalks, linked arms, and chanted the same chants. The amusement and annoyance of some pedestrians in the middle of their work week was not lost on me. We spent a lot of the tour realizing how all of our stories were interwoven, but in this moment,  we physically experienced our interconnectedness to each other and realized how much stronger, resilient, and hopeful we felt standing side-by-side and arm-in-arm.

The importance of solidarity, particularly amongst people on the fringes of status-quo systems of power, is not a new concept for us as Christians. The Bible is filled with stories of God bringing together individuals from the fringes of society as they journey as disciples of life-giving change. Mary and Elizabeth meet for shared fellowship and joy as women carrying the miracles that would grow to be Jesus and John the Baptist in Luke 1. In the Book of Ruth, God brings Ruth and Naomi together before re-writing the narrative of who is worthy of grace and authority. In the Gospels, Jesus brings together a motley crew of apostles before he begins his public ministry of reconciliation and redemption. Connection and relationship are foundational to any movement or ministry. 

Many of us know firsthand the trusted, sacred spaces that can be formed out of authentic connections, particularly when they link people of similar circumstances. A congregation’s men’s group, women’s group, or youth group are all examples of spaces founded on relationship and connection. And all these groups can be spaces that nurture the faith journeys of those involved. 

Over the past two years of my time serving on diocesan staff, I’ve heard longings for a similar space from my siblings-in-Christ in this diocese who are Black, Indigenous or People of Color (BIPOC). And these are longings I’ve felt in my heart and spirit. Some of these BIPOC leaders are one of the few or the “only” person of their ethnicity in their home congregation. Others are members of our predominantly ethnic and/or multicultural congregations, hoping to meet others from similar-but-different ministry contexts. All share a desire for new connections and a curiosity and excitement for what might emerge if many of us were able to link up – maybe not physically arm in arm, but at least socially and prayerfully. 

BIPOC leaders from EDSD’s various congregations are invited to the first ever BIPOC Leadership Link-Up on Saturday, Feb. 8, from 2-4 PM at Cafe X for a time of connection and conversation. I’ll be there with my co-hosts and collaborators: Karla Chavez from St. Matthew’s, National City; Stephen Arturo Greenlaw from St. Luke’s, North Park; and Alyson Terry from Resurrection, Ocean Beach (as well as EDSD’s Registrar). There will be space for mingling and networking, as well as for large-group structured conversation. Light food and drinks will be provided. If you have any questions, feel free to email me at rambasing@edsd.org.

REGISTER HERE

I know we have many BIPOC leaders in our diocese who are not located in San Diego proper. If the idea of a BIPOC leadership link-up sounds exciting, but driving all the way to San Diego is less than, please send a message to me. I’d be happy to partner with you and other leaders in your area to help plan something more geographically friendly.

At our 51st Diocesan Convention, Bishop Susan said, “We are to be salt and yeast to the world. Ingredients that, if you add just a tiny amount, it changes the whole shape and flavor of the dish. It turns it into something it wasn’t before. For us, being salt and yeast means loving the world just as Christ has loved us. Love makes all the difference. Love can change the minds and hearts of human beings.”

How can we live out our daily lives in Christ-like love? Carrying the lessons we learn in church into our homes, workplaces, and communities? In our families–modeling Christ’s patience and forgiveness? In our workplaces–striving for integrity, kindness, and excellence? In our communities–seeking the welfare of others, advocating for justice, and pursuing reconciliation?

The Episcopal Diocese of San Diego is celebrating a Year of Discipleship throughout 2025. At its core, discipleship is about trying to become more like Jesus. It is the process of realigning our lives with Jesus’ teachings–growing your spiritual maturity and cultivating practices that sustain your faith in a way that extends beyond personal prayer and Sunday attendance into our daily lives. 

During our 51st Diocesan Convention, Bishop Susan said, “The work of the church today is about discipleship. It is about growing up into our baptism. It is about taking on the armor of God to proclaim the gospel of peace. It is about maturing into Christ, who is our head and calls us to ministries of healing and transformation.”

This Year of Discipleship is an opportunity to intentionally deepen our understanding of what it means to live as disciples. Like many aspects of faith, discipleship is both an individual and communal endeavor. Individually, it calls us to personal growth and reflection. In community, it encourages us to generously support, gently challenge, and lovingly uplift one another.

Here are some easy ways you can join in the Year of Discipleship:

Leadership Academy – March 1 at St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church – new and seasoned leaders can explore the ways we are the body of Christ by engaging around topics of accessibility, storytelling, and ministry with teens and young adults. (Registration opens January 15)

Faith to Go in Lent – a daily podcast devotional featuring voices from all over our diocese reflecting on the Gospel. 

Spiritual Practices – a series of articles and videos will be available on edsd.org to enliven our existing spiritual lives and perhaps invite us to something new. 

LARK – May 2 & 3 at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church – Local Anti-Racism Knowledge is an antiracism program created and designed especially for the context of our diocese. This program creates space for learning and then calls participants to live into that deeper understanding by committing to a plan of action.

Knowing Yourself – May 4 at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church – this half-day workshop creates space for individuals to explore the complexity of their own identities and how it informs the way they interact with the people they interact with each day.

How to Invite a Friend to Church – Inviting friends and family to church can be challenging, but we know it is crucial. This Summer, join Diocesan leaders for this online training on how to prepare yourself and your church for the Invite a Friend to Church season. 

This year is a fresh opportunity to follow Christ and share His love with the world. In the months ahead, we will explore Bible Study, Daily Prayer, Family Faith Formation, Education for Ministry, and Spiritual Retreats. Let’s journey together, supporting one another as we grow in faith, serve others, and share the hope of Christ. Whether you are a lifelong Christian or just beginning to explore your faith, this Year of Discipleship is an opportunity to take the next step.

For resources for individuals, families, and communities, visit www.edsd.org/formation or contact Charlette Preslar at cpreslar@edsd.org.

Dear Beloved in Christ, 

Merry Christmas! As we gather once more to celebrate the birth of our Savior, I am filled with the joy and love that bring us together as the body of Christ in the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego. 

The Christmas story reminds us of a God who chose to draw near to us in the most unexpected way—a fragile child born in a humble setting. This extraordinary moment in history reveals God’s love for all humanity. Emmanuel—God with us—did not come in power or majesty but in vulnerability to bring light to a world longing for hope and peace. 

Each year, this sacred story calls us to reflect not only on the miracle of Christ’s birth but also on the ways we are called to carry that light into the world. In Jesus, God boldly declared that every person is precious, every life is sacred, and the promise of God’s love knows no boundaries. 

Reflecting on the past year, I see this light shining brightly throughout our diocese. I see it in congregations welcoming the stranger with open arms, communities standing in solidarity with those seeking justice, individuals sharing the joy of their local church with others, and  voices proclaiming the Good News of Christ. 

This Christmas, I encourage you to look around at the people God has placed in your life—family members, friends, neighbors, and even strangers who reflect God’s love and grace. Take time to celebrate the connections we share because it is for these connections that Christ came to us–for you, for your neighbor, for us.  

Let us also remember that Christmas is not just a moment; it is a mission. Just as the shepherds left the manger to share the joyful news, we are called to proclaim the message of God’s redeeming love. Through every act of kindness, every prayer lifted, and every word of encouragement shared, we make the love of Christ known in the world. 

May the wonder of Christmas renew your spirit and fill your heart with joy; be inspired by the hope born in Bethlehem as a light for you; and know the profound peace of Emmanuel, God with us, today and always. 

Merry Christmas, and may God’s abundant blessings be with you and those you love. 

Faithfully,
+Susan
The Rt. Rev. Susan Brown Snook
Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego 

Statement of Arizona Christian Bishops and Denominational Leaders

This statement was signed by denominational leaders with jurisdiction in Arizona, including Bishop Susan, since the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego includes Yuma, Arizona. 

We wish to unite our voices to express our grave concern over America’s failure to update our immigration system and the threat of mistreatment of undocumented persons who are our neighbors and contribute to our communities. While we recognize the lawful right of nations to monitor and control their borders, we also recognize that in many ways our current US immigration laws do not uphold individuals’ rights to a dignified life, family unity, and safety.

As immigration and migration are driven by complex factors, oftentimes resulting in life-or-death situations, the rights of those fleeing disaster, hunger, conflict, violence, or war are urgent and compelling. Therefore, grounded by the demands of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and love of our neighbors—our deeply held religious beliefs—we urge our elected officials and community leaders to stand with us to protect family unity and human dignity by refusing to participate in any deportation efforts which violate these most basic human rights.

Of special concern to us are reported methods of detention and deportation that might include raids on churches, houses of worship, hospitals, schools, and other locations associated with meeting basic human needs. Moreover, the threat of separating children from their parents as a means of punishment or deterrence is exceptionally reprehensible. While the practice of religion is a basic human right recognized by most international organizations, we note that for those living in America, it is part of the very foundation upon which our Nation was built. We find it unacceptable that undocumented persons might be intimidated from going to a church and thereby exercising their right to the practice of religion. We also assert that the disruption of any religious gathering for deportation purposes is equally an assault on our own right to the free exercise of our religion.

We also acknowledge that the stability of our society is under grave threat when undocumented persons are too fearful to seek necessary healthcare for themselves or their children, access basic education, or contact law enforcement when being victimized or observing criminal activity. We stand in solidarity with members of federal agencies, state agencies, and local law enforcement personnel who may choose not to participate in deportation raids deemed unjust by their conscience. In accordance with long-standing humanitarian principles, these conscientious objectors must be respected.

Motivated by the Gospel of Jesus Christ, who urges us to see the image of God in every human being, we urge federal, state, and local personnel tasked with the detention or deportation of undocumented persons to consider how their actions might be seen in the eyes of God. We likewise reiterate the call to our nation’s federal legislature to create an immigration system that is fair, reasonable, and recognizes the human dignity of all persons.

The Right Rev. Barry Beisner

Episcopal Church in Navajoland 

The Most Reverend John Dolan

Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix

Rev. Dr. Jay R. Hartley

Regional Minister and President

Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Arizona

Rev. Dr. Toni Hawkins

Conference Minister. Southwest Conference of the United Church of Christ (UCC)

The Rev. Deborah K. Hutterer

Bishop, Grand Canyon Synod-ELCA

The Rev. Dr. Brad Munroe

Presbytery Pastor

Grand Canyon and de Cristo Presbyteries

Bishop Carlo A. Rapanut

The United Methodist Church

Desert Southwest and New Mexico Conferences

The Right Rev. Jennifer A. Reddall

Bishop, Episcopal Diocese of Arizona

The Right Rev. Dr. Susan Brown Snook

Bishop, Episcopal Diocese of San Diego (Including Yuma, AZ)

The Most Reverend Edward J. Weisenburger

Roman Catholic Diocese of Tucson

I am very excited about introducing students to the life of Jesus here at Cal State University San Marcos, the very university that I attend! Here at CSUSM, we’ve started a new young adult group called Courageous Love. It allows young adults to know and love Jesus in a safe and welcoming space. Students get to be themselves and feel both accepted and appreciated for who they are, enjoy fellowship with one another, make new friends and lasting memories, and connect through worship.

My time at San Marcos has been great this semester. I have connected with many students who have shared their testimonies and faith. It has really been a beautiful journey. Several students and I hold Bible studies every week. We read through the Bible together and discuss the passages amongst ourselves in a circle. At times, we’ll sit outside and enjoy the beautiful day and nature. Other times, we’ll be inside in a library setting.

I’ve learned so much from this experience and the students who have become a part of this journey. I am excited about what God has planned for us next! We are working hard to make this new young adult group an official club at San Marcos, which allows for more outreach to students around the campus and provides great resources both on and off campus as well.

I am so excited to host an event when the new spring semester starts in February 2025 and find more opportunities to reach out to students and faculty at CSUSM–spreading the word about this new young adult group that is beginning to flourish. This upcoming semester, I will be passing out flyers, tabling on campus, praying for students, answering questions, and leading by example to be that bright light in the world and show God’s love to all.

I plan on hosting a worship bonfire at the beach as well. I will be getting together a playlist of worship music, along with interactive games, sports equipment, and definitely smores ingredients for that event! Everyone is invited!

I look forward to connecting with you, our local Episcopalians, to share in this journey. I want to do baptisms, church tours, question-and-answer sessions with a priest, bible talk nights, worship, and so much more. I have so many other ideas, and I can’t wait for you all to see how this young adult group will grow. Please contact me at dsanchez@edsd.org to get involved.

Thank you so much for all the love, support, and prayers! Merry Christmas!