In response to the decision Friday Jan 10th by Governor Abbott my colleagues in Texas and I have sent the governor this letter.

This action by Governor Abbott is deeply disappointing. To reject refugees seeking legal asylum goes against Texas values as a welcoming state and the biblical mandate. Gov. Abbott has split with 42 other state governors (including the majority of his party) who have rejected this executive order and become the first state governor to reject refugees. This is unnecessary and does nothing to make us safer. There is a great deal of confusion about this order because it has been conflated with immigration issues. Refugee claims are carefully vetted. Those fleeing have no better options. There is no reason to take this action.

It is important that as people of faith we advocate for those in our midst who are in need. Refugees who have met the legal asylum requirements should not be turned away from our state. Bishop Rinehart (Gulf Coast Synod) has also authored an editorial with the CEO of LIRS. https://www.houstonchronicle.com/…/Welcoming-refugees-is-a-… #InMissionTogether