International Migrants Day (Dec. 18) highlights the contributions and rights of migrants, making this an important time to ask Congress to restore asylum for those seeking safety.
The ELCA Prayer Ventures resource marks International Migrants Day, a day to recognize the contributions of migrants and highlight migrants’ rights, with this invitation: “Pray for immigrants and refugees around the world who seek safety, a welcoming community and a place to rebuild their lives. Give thanks for the ministries of our church and other organizations that enable us to respond with compassion, support and resources.”
New U.S. policies announced in November and December 2025 include an indefinite pause on asylum decisions, a traumatic and unnecessary “re-review” of refugees resettled in the United States from 2021-2024, and a halt on immigration procedures for individuals from 19 countries. These policies destabilize the lives of our neighbors and members of our faith community who have carefully followed U.S. immigration law.
Recollecting teachings "that 'all people are God's creatures, sinners for whom Christ died' and our responsibility to respect the human dignity of all," the ELCA social message on "Immigration" affirms continuing "to advocate for immigration, refugee, and asylum laws that are fair and generous" (p. 2). As we pray for immigrants and refugees, we can also call on our elected officials to enact policy that respects immigrants’ rights.
Please see additional resources for people with refugee or asylum status below:
Personalize a message to urge Congress to restore asylum and to recognize the rights of migrants.
[Posted: 12/18/2025]
