When fear knocks, the church answers

What happens when immigration enforcement reshapes daily life — not in theory, but on the streets, in schools and inside churches?

This 12-minute documentary captures the lived reality of United Methodist congregations in Chicago navigating fear, loss and uncertainty amid increased activity by Immigration and Customs Enforcement.  

Pastors, lay leaders and families share stories of a church that adapts, protects and shows up. From food pantries emptying out because of fear, to pastors praying at sites of tragedy, to churches becoming sanctuaries of hope — this is what discipleship looks like on the ground.

Told in both English and Spanish, the story reveals the human cost behind policies, the quiet courage of communities living under pressure, and the faith that moves beyond preaching into presence.

A four-story series also documents El Plan for Hispanic/Latine Ministry’s visits to congregations in the Chicago area.

Read series in Spanish (click Translate Page in the top right corner to read in other languages).

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Mission and Ministry
The Rev. Betsy Singleton Snyder offers a blessing to Julia Sugarbaker, a mini goldendoodle, at Pinnacle View United Methodist Church in Little Rock, Ark. Snyder and co-author Gayle Fiser have written a book on how churches can start successful pet ministries. Photo from video by Lilla Marigza, UM News.

How churches can adopt their own pet ministries

A new book by United Methodists shares practical guidance for congregations looking to build community connections by caring for pets and the people who love them.
Leaders of La Trinidad United Methodist Church in San Antonio talk about the church’s 150th anniversary celebration on the morning television show “SA Live” on May 1. Pictured (from left) are Jen Tobias-Struski, host of the program; Carmen Gámez, chair of the church’s anniversary gala committee; the Rev. Nohemí Ramírez, pastor of La Trinidad; and Patricia Mejía, director of impact and inclusion for Spurs Sports & Entertainment. Photo courtesy of the Rev. Nohemí Ramírez.

Historic church embraces new era of ministry

La Trinidad United Methodist Church, San Antonio’s oldest Hispanic Protestant congregation, is marking its 150th anniversary while renewing its commitment to serving new generations and immigrant families.
Faith Sharing
Happy Fourth of July! Photo by Mike DuBose; graphic by Laurens Glass, UM News.

Social media graphics from UM News

Graphic for the Fourth of July available to download and share on social media.

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