Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Policy on Immigration
218th General Assembly (2008)

Immigration is not an issue only in cities and towns near the United States’ northern and southern borders. Presbyteries across the country are frequently contacted by churches for advice and referrals to resources to help address immigration problems at the local level. The PC(USA) manager of Immigration Issues, Julia Thorne, receives calls daily from pastors and presbyters in regions far from any national border and has visited with most presbyteries to discuss opportunities to help church members and pastors who are coping with immigration status questions.  

At the 218th General Assembly (2008), held in San Jose, California, this past summer, this range in voices concerned about immigration became apparent. Several resolutions were approved, and through this action the General Assembly has tried to create a way for local churches to become educated and take action on this important issue. The information in these resolutions and the actions they suggest will go a long way in helping us to understand the church’s role in seeking justice for the “strangers” in our midst.

The resolutions address issues of human trafficking, detention centers, and the treatment of immigrants. All appreciate the complex nature of immigration laws while at the same time urging Christians and political leaders to work toward understanding. 

Immigration is the great civil rights’ issue facing the church today. How we respond to this issue will determine what the history books of the next generation have to say about society’s response to this latest chapter in U.S. immigration history.

Find out more about the PC(USA)’s stand on immigration issues.