4-48

To Oppose Federal Immigration Raids and Call for Pastoral Advocacy

This is official source text extracted from the 2026 LCMS Convention Workbook. It is distinct from analysis or commentary. Check official LCMS convention materials for final authority.

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Official Workbook overture source text

Overture: 4-48

Workbook page: 328

Source pages: 328

Source status: source checked / public

Submitter: Markham / Markham, IL

Ov. 4-48

To Oppose Federal Immigration Raids and Call for Pastoral Advocacy

WHEREAS, The Synod has consistently affirmed the common humanity and dignity of all people as beings created in the image of God; and

WHEREAS, Current federal policies involving expanded enforcement actions by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have reportedly included raids near “sensitive areas,” such as churches, which disrupts the free exercise of religion and creates an atmosphere of fear for our immigrant neighbors; and

WHEREAS, Synod President Matthew Harrison has previously emphasized that the Synod is “pro-immigrant” and has encouraged congregations to provide compassionate action and assistance to those facing deportation; and

WHEREAS, Scripture mandates that we “welcome the stranger” (Matt. 25:35) and “love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31), regardless of their documentation status; and

WHEREAS, The 2026 Synod convention serves as the primary legislative body for the Synod to speak on matters of public concern and provide direction to its officers (Bylaw 3.1.1); therefore be it

Resolved, That the Synod formally oppose the use of aggressive tactics by ICE and CBP that infringe upon the sanctity of worship and the safety of our communities; and be it further

Resolved, That the Synod President issue a bold public statement in 2026, speaking up for the safety and civil rights of all residents, including those being targeted for mass deportation; and be it further

Resolved, That the Synod President be urged to use the influence of his office to advocate with government officials for humane immigration reform that prioritizes family unity and human dignity over punitive enforcement; and be it finally

Resolved, That the Synod be encouraged to provide spiritual, legal, and material support to those in our midst who are impacted by these federal actions, ensuring that no one stands alone in the face of these challenges.

Markham Markham, IL

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Official Workbook source text remains separate from any clearly labeled draft discernment material. Review status is source checked.

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Citations

Workbook source for 4-48: LCMS 2026 Convention Workbook, p. 328

Draft discernment material

AI Summary and Discernment Aid

This section is an AI-assisted summary and prayer guide based on a draft discernment document. It is not official LCMS material, not a substitute for the Workbook, and not a substitute for reading the full overture. Please read the complete overture text below before forming conclusions, speaking publicly, or voting.

The draft guide summarizes the apparent direction this way. Readers should compare this with the full overture text and any floor committee action.

Floor Committee 4: Life Together

Summary and possible impact

The resolves appear to ask the church body to oppose Federal Immigration Raids and Call for Pastoral Advocacy. In plain language, this overture is trying to move the stated concern into convention action by encouraging local, district, or synodwide support without necessarily creating a mandate, drawing a doctrinal, moral, or public-witness boundary. Main actors named or implied include Synod in convention. The overture contains about 4 resolve clauses, so delegates should read each clause rather than reacting only to the title. Because it names error or opposition, its impact could clarify public confession and strengthen boundaries, but it could also raise relational heat if the claim is broader than the evidence. Delegates should distinguish clear doctrine from rhetoric, make sure the facts are solid, and preserve evangelical care for sinners and neighbors. Support the concern if the error is clearly defined and the language is truthful, evangelical, and proportionate. Seek amendment or oppose it if the wording overstates the case, confuses people with movements, or trades pastoral clarity for thunderclap rhetoric.

Prayer for discernment

Lord Jesus Christ, risen Shepherd of Your Church, guide our delegates and leaders as they weigh this overture. Keep them captive to Your Word, joyful in the Lutheran confession, sober under Your Law, and bold in Your Gospel. Bless neighbors in need, church workers, the vulnerable, and all who receive mercy in Christ's name. Give courage to support what serves Your truth and mission, humility to amend what is unclear or excessive, and faithfulness to reject what would burden consciences, obscure the forgiveness of sins, or distract from Your sending. Let all things serve the proclamation that Christ is risen, sinners are forgiven, and Your Church is sent in love. Amen.

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