Charlotte, N.C., residents attend a training session at a church to learn how to nonviolently support detained immigrants and document enforcement practices. (Photo Courtesy of Rev. Joel Simpson/Facebook)
November 14, 2025
To the People of the Western North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church,
Grace and peace to you in the name of Jesus Christ.
In recent days, we have become aware of an anticipated increase in federal immigration enforcement activity in the Charlotte region. For many of our immigrant neighbors—beloved members of our churches and communities—this news brings renewed fear and uncertainty. I write to you as your bishop, not from a political place, but from a deeply pastoral and biblical one.
Our Holy Scriptures teach that all people are created in the image of God (Genesis 1). We are commanded to “welcome the stranger” (Leviticus 19:33–34) and reminded that when we receive the outsider, we welcome Christ himself (Matthew 25). These are not abstract ideals—they are the heart of our life together as disciples.
Immigration policy and the implementation of that policy can and should be humane, transparent, and nonviolent. Yet when enforcement actions cause fear, disrupt communities, or treat people without the dignity they deserve as children of God, we are called as followers of Jesus to respond with solidarity, compassion, and nonviolence. In doing so, we embody the Beatitudes (Matthew 5) and the mercy shown in the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10).
We are not called to turn away from the suffering of our immigrant siblings. Like God who heard the cries of the Israelites (Exodus 3), we too must listen and draw near. And even in moments of tension or threat, we are instructed not to return violence for violence (Matthew 5:38–48). This is a moment to model the peaceable kingdom Isaiah envisioned (Isaiah 11) and to live “a more excellent way”—the way of love (1 Corinthians 13).
Again, my purpose in writing is to encourage you as your bishop, with no partisan motive, but with deep pastoral concern for our people. This is a season that requires courage, tenderness, and deep faithfulness. Who knows—perhaps we have been called and formed as disciples for such a time as this (Esther 4:14).
Bishop Carter
Bishop Ken Carter (Florida Conference Photo)
Grace and Peace,
+Bishop Ken Carter
Western North Carolina Conference, The United Methodist Church