URGENT UPDATE: Maine churches are urgently uniting to highlight the struggles of immigrants during the Advent season, drawing poignant parallels between biblical narratives and contemporary realities. As congregations across the state celebrate this reflective time, the stories of detained immigrants are being shared, resonating deeply with the spirit of the season.
At the First Parish Congregational Church in Gorham, Lead Minister Christine Dyke read a heartfelt letter during the fourth Sunday of Advent, originally penned by a woman currently detained in Cumberland County Jail by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The letter, detailing her longing for her family after living in the U.S. for 41 years, struck a chord with the congregation. “Missing my children and my husband has been the biggest obstacle for me,” she expressed, underscoring the emotional toll of detention.
Over the past month, regional churches have engaged in a unique exchange with ICE detainees, reading letters aloud and sending prayers to those in custody. One detainee even sent a handmade cross, which was ceremoniously affixed to the church’s Advent wreath, symbolizing hope amid despair.
As Advent progresses, many churches in Maine are focusing their messages on the plight of immigrants, drawing direct comparisons to the biblical escape of Mary, Joseph, and Jesus from King Herod. “In Advent, it’s a wonderful opportunity to talk about the plight of the stranger,” said Marisa Laviola, Maine conference minister for the United Church of Christ.
This year, the Gospel of Matthew, which recounts the Holy Family’s flight into Egypt, serves as the lectionary reading for various denominations, prompting ministers to address the urgent realities facing immigrants today. “The Gospel of Matthew understands the world we live in,” noted Reverend Jane Field, executive director of the Maine Council of Churches.
At HopeGateWay in Portland, the theme “Advent Against Empire” was emphasized, with services drawing direct parallels between the actions of King Herod and policies under former President Donald Trump. The administration’s aggressive immigration policies have led to heightened fears among immigrant communities in Maine, including a significant decline in refugee resettlement.
“Advent is an invitation to scrub off every way empire has moved us,” proclaimed HopeGateWay Lead Pastor Sara Ewing-Merrill. As churches confront the complexities of joy during the holiday season, many are also facilitating prayer vigils and advocacy efforts for detained immigrants.
In an emotional service at First Parish, children dressed as biblical figures brought a sense of innocence to the narrative, creating a stark contrast to the pain expressed in the detained mother’s letter. “Even with the joy of the children, our hearts should break for all those who won’t see their children at Christmas,” Dyke reflected.
As congregations grapple with the juxtaposition of festive celebrations and the harsh realities faced by immigrants, the call to action is clearer than ever. “May we remember those who are being held away from family and children, and may we work in this season of Advent and Christmas for freedom and justice for all,” Dyke concluded.
Maine’s churches are not just preaching hope; they are actively engaging in a dialogue that challenges their communities to confront the urgent issues surrounding immigration. As the Advent season unfolds, the connection between faith and social justice continues to strengthen, amplifying the voices of those in the shadows and reminding congregants of the very essence of the season—compassion and humanity.
This developing story highlights a crucial intersection of faith and advocacy, and it is one that resonates deeply during this time of year.