“Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world, for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me.” -Matthew 25:34b-36
Dear Siblings in Christ,
Our baptismal vows require us to "seek and serve Christ in all persons, to strive for justice and peace among all people, and to respect the dignity of every human being." These are not mere poetic words or lofty aspirations, but parts of a tangible covenant to live more fully into our call to follow in the way of Jesus. As people of faith, united as one in Baptism, committed to dismantling oppressive systems, and building structures and communities that reflect God’s compassion and justice, we must do nothing less than to act and advocate for the most vulnerable and marginalized in our society.
In a world marked by uncertainty, fear, and division, we are called to be places of sanctuary—safe havens where God’s peace dwells and all people find welcome, dignity, and hope. Our doors, our hearts, and our hands must remain open to those who seek safety: the vulnerable, the hurting, the refugee, and the marginalized.
Over the last few years, we have seen a dramatic increase in vitriol and violence against immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers who have, in many cases, sacrificed everything in pursuit of a better life for themselves and their loved ones. This time calls on us as people of faith to live into our mandate to be places of safety and sanctuary.
To be a sanctuary means more than providing physical safety; it is about creating a community of grace, where all God’s people can be seen, heard, and loved unconditionally. It is more than a public witness. It is a relationship. Cultivating partnerships in the community, exploring our theological convictions, understanding our own privilege, and committing as communities of faith to the care and nurture of those being marginalized are key to building a healthy relationship. Sanctuary, then, is a place where the broken find healing, where the rejected find belonging, and where all are met with compassion and care.
As an immigrant, I know only too well the importance of communities of faith speaking out and standing up for those who often feel voiceless, hopeless, and powerless. I encourage each community of faith within the Diocese of Missouri to advocate and act on behalf of those seeking refuge and pursuing dignity by becoming places of sanctuary. Now more than ever, the Church needs to be a visible compassionate voice for immigrants, asylum seekers, and refugees.
Together, let us build communities where no one is turned away, where hope is restored, and where God’s love is made manifest in our midst, centered on Christ’s compassion. Pray for immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers. Pray for those who have been marginalized and sidelined. Pray for those who live with fear, uncertainty, and terror as their constant companions. Pray that we might be equipped and sustained to be a sanctuary for those Christ has called us to serve.
Yours in Christ,
The Rt. Rev. Deon K. Johnson
XI Bishop of Missouri