NEW YORK — Roland Fernandes, General Secretary of United Methodist Global Ministries, joined with other denominational leaders in a Church World Service statement protesting the Trump administration’s efforts to dismantle the U.S. refugee program. The United Methodist Church is part of Church World Service, which helps resettle refugees.
Roland Fernandes
GBGM Photo
Fernandes also leads the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry as well as the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR).
"As people of faith, we have watched with growing alarm the White House’s ongoing efforts to undermine this country’s proud tradition of welcoming the stranger," the statement begins. "In our congregations, our communities, and our pews, we have long worked, advocated, and prayed in support of refugees, asylum seekers and other vulnerable people fleeing persecution around the globe. Today, as barrier after barrier is erected to deny those seeking refuge, safety and compassion, we are compelled to speak out - and make good on the spiritual call to love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action. (1 John 3:18)"