Our hearts are broken over the news from San Antonio last night of the deaths of at least 50 migrants, with more hospitalized. The mass loss of life in our state, including children, yet again is overwhelming to process. We grieve their loss and will continue to work for justice through our United Methodist connection. Hebrews 13:12 says, “Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.” Our conference and church have a long history of working with partners throughout the connection and the border to provide safe and welcoming places of care and dignity. Clearly, there is much more work to accomplish. I am grateful for the ministries like Corazon Ministries at Travis Park Church, under the leadership of Pastor Gavin Rogers, who works directly with our migrant community.

Pastor Gavin states, “At least fifty lives were lost in San Antonio! Dear God, hold everyone close. Words cannot express the hurt our region has felt over the last weeks. At this tragic time, we stand and support our migrant siblings seeking to find better lives. The lives lost in a trailer in San Antonio is devastating and our hearts grieve with every family affected. May we all find the compassion and grace to continue to care for migrants in ways all are honored and respected. Our prayers extend to all at the City of San Antonio Department of Human Services, city leaders in San Antonio District four, Councilwoman Adriana Rocha Garcia, and Mayor Ron Nirenberg during this time. We also pray for the Corazon migrant overnight staff for caring for our siblings each night in our basement so that some have a chance of safety.”

Our United Methodist social principles remind us that, “We recognize, embrace, and affirm all persons, regardless of country of origin, as members of the family of God. We affirm the right of all persons to equal opportunities for employment, access to housing, health care, education, and freedom from social discrimination. We urge the Church and society to recognize the gifts, contributions, and struggles of those who are immigrants and to advocate for justice for all.”

I pray for the families and first responders and for all who have experienced loss and pain from this tragedy. I pray we continue to work towards justice so that these kinds of occurrences will not happen again. Lord, in your mercy, hear our pain and prayers.

Bishop Robert Schnase
Resident Bishop
Rio Texas Conference of the United Methodist Church