Gorham, Maine, has become a focal point for compassion and reflection this holiday season as local churches draw connections between the Christmas narrative and the ongoing struggles faced by immigrants. On December 21, 2023, during the fourth Sunday of Advent, Lead Minister Christine Dyke of the First Parish Congregational Church shared a poignant letter from a woman detained at the Cumberland County Jail by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The letter, filled with heartfelt emotion, spoke of the woman’s longing for her family after living in the U.S. for 41 years, highlighting the human cost of immigration policies.
The church has participated in a letter exchange program, where detainees in the Cumberland County Jail send letters to various regional churches. The letters are read aloud during services, creating a bridge between those in custody and the congregations. In a powerful gesture, one detainee included a small cross made from twine, which the church affixed to the Advent wreath’s central “Christ candle”. This candle will be lit on Christmas Eve, symbolizing hope amid uncertainty.
As Advent progresses, many churches across Maine have been emphasizing the parallels between the story of the Holy Family’s flight to Egypt from King Herod and the experiences of modern immigrants seeking refuge. Marisa Laviola, the Maine conference minister for the United Church of Christ, noted that Advent serves as a significant opportunity to discuss the plight of strangers and the immigrant experience, echoing the teachings of Jesus, who is often viewed as an immigrant himself.
The theme of this year’s Advent season resonates deeply within Christian communities. Many congregations, including those from various denominations such as Episcopal, Lutheran, and Catholic churches, are focusing on the Gospel of Matthew, which recounts the Holy Family’s escape to Egypt. Reverend Jane Field, executive director of the Maine Council of Churches, remarked that this particular scripture has become especially relevant given the current political climate surrounding immigration.
At HopeGateWay in Portland, the liturgical theme of “Advent Against Empire” has sparked discussions about the treatment of immigrants under the Trump administration. The administration’s policies have seen increased deportations and restrictions on immigration, prompting local churches to take a stand. Sara Ewing-Merrill, the lead pastor at HopeGateWay, emphasized the need to recognize the presence of God on the margins, particularly in the lives of refugees.
Other ministers in Maine are also using the Advent season to encourage congregants to reflect on the broader societal issues at hand. Rev. Thomas Mousin of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church highlighted the importance of finding hope amidst the challenges facing individuals and families affected by current immigration policies.
Some faith leaders are addressing contemporary issues directly in their sermons, while others opt to focus on biblical teachings. Bishop Thomas Brown noted that many clergy members are guided by scripture, which calls for welcoming the alien and supporting those in need. This approach allows them to address the moral imperatives of their faith while navigating diverse political opinions within their congregations.
The involvement of churches in immigrant advocacy has grown significantly over the past year, with many leaders and congregants engaging in political action and support initiatives. Field mentioned that these efforts have awakened a sense of responsibility among church members to advocate for justice and the rights of immigrants.
In addition to letter exchanges, various faith leaders have organized prayer vigils outside the Cumberland County Jail, further supporting detained individuals and highlighting the human impact of immigration policies. This initiative fosters a sense of community and solidarity for those affected by the immigration system.
As the holiday season unfolds, congregations are tasked with balancing the joy of Christmas celebrations with the harsh realities faced by many immigrants. The contrast was evident during the service at First Parish in Gorham, where children dressed as angels and shepherds participated in a Nativity play. Dyke reflected on the bittersweet nature of the season, emphasizing the need to remember those separated from their families.
“Even with the joy of the children, our hearts should break for all those who won’t see their children at Christmas,” Dyke said, underscoring the importance of compassion during this reflective time. She urged her congregation to work towards freedom and justice for all, reminding them that the Advent season calls for vigilance and action in the face of injustice.
The connection between the Advent story and the immigrant experience serves as a reminder of the enduring values of compassion, hope, and community. As churches in Maine continue to embrace this message, they are fostering a spirit of unity and advocacy that resonates beyond the holiday season.
