Churches could be sanctuaries for immigrants

06:52 PM PDT on Friday, June 15, 2007

By DREW MIKKELSEN, kgw.com Staff

A North Portland immigration bust may end up giving future undocumented residents more support. Six Portland churches were already looking at joining a national effort to become sanctuaries for undocumented residents.

"These are some of the most vulnerable people," said Reverend Lynne Smouse Lopez, "They're seeking to earn money to survive."

Members of Rev. Lopez's church could vote to make her church, Ainsworth United Church of Christ, a sanctuary for illegal residents.

"We would provide housing in a church or in homes of members," said Rev. Lopez.

She thinks this week's raid raised awareness about the plight of immigrants and could inspire other churches to vote in favor of sanctuaries.

Background: Immigration raid highlights plant safety

Gresham's East Hill church will not become a sanctuary anytime soon.

"We feel sorry for those who have been displaced," said Pastor Ray Young, "But the Scripture makes it very clear we are to respect civil law."

How much protection a church sanctuary could offer is not clear.

A spokeswoman for the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency said the current law allows federal agents to take people into custody anywhere and at anytime.

"But," she added, "We don't stake out churches."

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