Following President Trump’s Executive order for a travel ban to and from seven different countries, religious leaders have been vocal in opposition as well as in favor of the ban.
Pope Frances has expressed his thoughts against the ban, encouraging cathedrals across the country to open their doors to refugees and immigrants during this time. The Lubbock Catholic community said they stand in agreement with the pope.
The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops released a statement in regards to refugees:
“The refugees fleeing from ISIS and other extremists are sacrificing all they have in the name of peace and freedom. Often, they could be spared if only they surrendered to the violent vision of their tormentors. They stand firm in their faith. Many are families, no different from yours or mine, seeking safety and security for their children. Our nation should welcome them as allies in a common fight against evil. We must screen vigilantly for infiltrators who would do us harm, but we must always be equally vigilant in our welcome of friends.”
Senior Pastor, Davis Wilson at the Southcrest Baptist Church said they are all for immigration but that it’s important to follow the law and the President’s order.
“We are in favor of legal immigration, no other country would allow people to stroll into their country un-noticed and unvetted,” Wilson said.
Twice a week the church hosts a “Pray for America” gathering where local churches come to pray for the future of the country.
“Praying for our administration, praying for the local authorities, for wisdom and guidance,”Wilson said. “We tell our people to be kind to people anyway and we aren’t stereotyping anybody, everybody’s welcome to come from another country to our service.”
