MINNEAPOLIS — In a poignant display of community solidarity, a Minneapolis church opened its doors for a special Sunday service, aptly named 'Lament and Hope.' This gathering was held in response to a turbulent week that followed the fatal shooting of a woman by an immigration officer, prompting fears among local residents.
The Rev. Hierald Osorto, pastor at St. Paul’s-San Pablo Lutheran Church, welcomed attendees, emphasizing the importance of gathering during such challenging times. Thank you for being here this morning. Gathering is such a critical, critical thing to do, especially in these times. It’s been a difficult week, he remarked to the congregation seated on wooden benches.
With the city of Minneapolis emerging as a focal point in the nation’s immigration debate, the Department of Homeland Security has deployed around 2,000 agents to enforce immigration laws, inciting fear within immigrant communities and strong opposition from activists urging for reform.
Located just a mile and a half from where the tragic incident occurred, St. Paul’s church has long supported a predominantly immigrant congregation, frequently serving as a refuge and a platform for advocacy in light of increasing enforcement activities.
Candles Lit and Hymns Sung Amid Active Enforcement
As candles were lit, hymns sung, and communion offered, outside the church, immigration officers patrolled the neighborhood, conducting detentions as activists endeavored to disrupt their actions with whistling and drumming.
Inside, attendees exchanged smiles and hugs, as church volunteers provided pamphlets detailing the service proceedings, adorned with a bold message: Justice is for Everyone: Immigrant Rights Now! The mixed-language service, featuring Spanish and English, mirrored the church's journey from its early Swedish roots to its current vibrant diversity.
A Prayer for the Victim
During the service, Rev. Osorto led prayers for the woman who lost her life, acknowledging the collective trauma experienced by the community. Although attendance was slightly lower than usual, many still came together to share in worship and support.
Anna Amundson, a congregation member, expressed concern for the wider community's anxiety, noting that many are afraid even to perform daily tasks like grocery shopping. “A lot of people are afraid to kind of do the basic things, and so that’s why it’s even more impressive that people are still coming to church. This community is important to people," she commented.
Attendee Lizete, an immigrant who feared repercussions from enforcement, found solace in the church’s atmosphere, stating, Here I have my people, who are close to me, and I feel their really, really support.
Finding Strength in Hymns
As various hymns resonated within the church walls, one in particular stood out: Nothing can trouble, nothing can frighten. Those who seek God shall never go wanting. Lizete drew strength from these words, feeling united with her community against the external pressures they face.
The church not only serves its congregation but also acts as a venue for various groups advocating against the immigration crackdown. Later in the day, a singing vigil took place with participants preparing to march through the community to protest enforcement actions while also engaging in crafting paper flowers for upcoming demonstrations.
Jose Luis Villasenor, a speaker at the service, encouraged attendees to remember their collective bravery and resilience, emphasizing that their shared experiences would carry them through the indignities of the current climate. We can get through this together, not alone, he affirmed, fostering a sense of hope amidst the ongoing struggle.
