“Being Sanctuary for Immigrants” by The Rev. Kaji Douša
I wanted to talk for a moment about “Sanctuary.” Here we are in one of the most incredibly beautiful sanctuaries in all of New York City. But yet, the nation right now is talking about Sanctuary. But what is Sanctuary? Basically, it’s based on the premise that the Holy One of Israel, the Ancient of Days, has already taken sides in the struggle of the oppressed. And yet, we wonder, why haven’t more people of faith taken that side, too? The “Sanctuary Movement” seeks to redress that. As we look at the oppression, we layer upon the people who come to this country, seeking jobs, seeking a place of employment, seeking a way to secure what their family needs for safety, security, and the ability to thrive – which of course is something that we all would want – and yet, and yet, we criminalize immigrants. And so, the Sanctuary Movement says that, as a way of life, we will extend that hospitality to every stranger, just as Jesus has called us to do; that we recognize that whatsoever we do to the least of these, that we also do to Jesus; and we have decided that, therefore, that we will not deport Jesus. So, the Sanctuary Movement says, let us find a way to incorporate immigrants in full thriving with dignity, love, and respect. That is what Sanctuary means. Amen.
See Pastor Kaji’s full sermon here: https://parkavenuechristian.com/sermon-video-what-things-refocusing-our-attention-by-rev-kaji-dousa/