In case you have not already heard, I should let you know that this past week; the Episcopal Diocese of Alabama joined with the Roman Catholic dioceses of Birmingham and Mobile, and the Methodist North Alabama Conference, in a lawsuit against the new immigration law in Alabama. I have a copy of the legal complaint filed in federal court, and will share it with anyone who wishes to read it.
In the lawsuit, the churches argue that the recently passed law violates the rights of their members under the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which states: “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.” This Amendment, like the rest of the first ten Amendments, originally applied only to the U.S. Congress. But under the 14th Amendment to the Constitution, the protections of the Bill of Rights are now understood as applying to the states as well as the federal government.
According to the churches filing the lawsuit: “Biblical teachings to extend hospitality to all people without reservation are obligatory to all members of Alabama’s Episcopal, Methodist and Roman Catholic religions.” And these “Bible-based instructions to feed the hungry, shelter the homeless and clothe the naked are in direct conflict with the Law’s restrictions against assisting” those immigrants who don’t have legal status.
Having studied the law, the four bishops filing the lawsuit have concluded that in order to avoid violating the law, members of their churches will have to verify the immigration status of anyone they assist with food, shelter, transportation, education, or other services. They will also be prohibited from helping any illegal immigrants attend worship services.
Among other things, the new law makes it a crime to “conceal, harbor or shield” immigrants without legal status; and to “encourage or induce an alien” without legal status “to come to or reside in this state.” There are many ministries in our diocese which provide food, shelter and education to the needy. If the new law goes into effect, those who serve in those ministries will have to choose between practicing their religion and complying with the law.
As I wrote a few weeks ago, I share the frustration of those who believe that a sovereign nation should be able to control its borders and regulate who comes to this country. The Federal government has failed to do that for years now. And it has created a class of people who live in a legal No-Man’s Land. They are unable to become citizens; but the obstacles to a mass-deportation are too many to overcome. But the new law has created a climate of uncertainty for many who fear becoming criminals by simply serving the needy. And in that respect, the Alabama Legislature and Governor Bentley overreached in their understandable desire to enforce the law.
As Americans, we live within national borders that should be respected. As Christians, we live in another kingdom that has no borders. And as Christians we cannot turn away those in need simply because they do not share our nationality.
I understand that at least some of you are disappointed by Bishop Parsley’s action. I understand that you have seen changes in this city that you did not ask for. Clearly, this town that we all love is struggling with many things: the loss of business, cultural changes, the lack of opportunities for young people, and natural disasters. But there are also reasons for hope: a state-of-the-art school and fine arts center, a passion for artistic excellence typified by our marching band, a renewed commitment to attracting new businesses; and last but not least, a new church and fellowship hall that will be more able to bridge Christ and community.
Can we see a kingdom without borders within the borders of our community? I hope so. In the meantime; my door is open to any of you who wish to express your frustration, and your hope.
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