Texas Bishops Respond to State's Intention to Withdraw from Federal Refugee Program
In response to Gov. Greg Abbott’s recent announcement regarding Texas’ intention to withdraw from the federal refugee resettlement program, the United Methodist bishops of Texas have issued the following statement.
As bishops of The United Methodist Church in Texas, we join with other faith leaders in our state to encourage Governor Greg Abbott to seek a pathway that will affirm the worth of all humankind.
As Christians and as Texans, our values are grounded in respect and hospitality toward newcomers. Those values lead us to welcome refugees to our state. We recognize that these are difficult and complex times, but, as Christians, we rely on Jesus Christ to overcome our fear of those who may be different.
The Social Principles of The United Methodist Church state, “We recognize, embrace, and affirm all persons, regardless of country of origin, as members of the family of God…. We urge the Church and society to recognize the gifts, contributions, and struggles of those who are immigrants and to advocate for justice for all.”
We ask for God’s blessing on those who will step in to serve in the absence of our state’s participation in the resettlement effort, for they are truly being the hands and feet of Christ.
Bishop Earl Bledsoe, Northwest Texas Area
Bishop Scott Jones, Houston Area
Bishop Michael Lowry, Fort Worth Area
Bishop Michael McKee, Dallas Area
Bishop Robert Schnase, San Antonio Area