Important Update on Immigration Enforcement and Houses of Worship

Dear ABCNJ Pastors and Church Leaders,

We are sharing an important update from the Office of the General Secretary of ABCUSA.

ABCUSA joined other churches and denominations in legal action following the removal of long-standing protections for sensitive locations such as houses of worship. A federal court has issued a preliminary injunction restricting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from conducting enforcement actions inside churches and within 100 feet of church property, including parking lots, or from targeting individuals traveling to worship.

This is encouraging news for congregations serving communities experiencing fear and uncertainty.

However, this protection is not yet in effect. Additional legal steps remain, and we will provide updates as they become available.

In the meantime, we encourage our congregations to consider displaying the ABCUSA logo as a visible sign of connection and shared witness.

Please continue to pray for wisdom, courage, and faithfulness as we seek to remain places of refuge, worship, and hope.