Upon the detention of one of the clergy members serving in the Diocese of Texas in the Episcopal church, the diocese has expressed concerns regarding the dignified treatment of immigration cases and urged governmental organisations to act with transparency and justice.
The Diocese of Texas has shared that a priest, originally from Kenya but legally living and employed in the diocese, was recently detained by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on his way home from work. The ICE is the governmental body that enforces immigration laws in the US, ‘in the interest of national security and public safety’.
After many days of uncertainty, his family confirmed that he had been transferred to an immigration detention centre in Conroe, Texas and that they had been able to speak with him. The diocese has assisted his family as they navigate legal representation and seek clarity regarding the circumstances of his detention. The diocese shared its wish for transparency, due process, and respect for all individuals working legally in public service.
‘The Episcopal Diocese of Texas stands firmly for justice, dignity, and compassion for every person,’ said the Rt Revd C. Andrew Doyle, IX Bishop of Texas. ‘This priest has served both the Church and the State of Texas faithfully. We are praying for his safety, for his family’s peace of mind, and for fair and humane treatment as this case moves forward.’
The diocese remarked that both pastoral and legal teams are accompanying the priest’s community and family as they continue to seek justice and understanding in this matter. They have called on people of faith to join in prayer for the priest and his family, and for all who are affected by the ongoing political and social struggles in America, urging official representatives to assist.
In recent months, the diocese has been in the process of implementing its strategic planning initiative ‘Faith in the Future’, the purpose of which was to help church leaders anticipate and prepare for major external forces that will affect their communities over the next decade.
With over 3 million residents identifying as Hispanic in Houston alone, one of the major priorities for the Diocese of Texas has been to ensure the provision of inclusive churches where immigrant communities can feel that they belong. The diocese is deeply committed to church planting and growth, and are creating missional communities that are responsive to the needs of the communities they serve
However, since the start of the second term of President Donald Trump, the nation has experienced a time of changing policies and active campaigns against illegal immigration. As one of the most diverse states in the United States of America, the Diocese of Texas remains committed to reaching all parts of society and diligently serving the community they have.
Read the statement from the Episcopal Diocese of Texas.