On January 23, 2025 I sent the following to our Conferencia Latina Dean the Rev. Jesus Escamilla:
Pastor Escamilla,
Thank you for your time earlier this week in conversation. If you could please share the following with the Conferencia Latina congregations.
Rescinding of Sensitive Area Orders
A previous directive that instructed ICE to not enter “sensitive areas” (schools, churches, health care) has been rescinded. As a result ICE officers can go to churches at this time. Peace officers (which include ICE) no matter whether federal, state or local have the ability, without a warrant, to enter into any location that is open to the public no matter whether its a grocery store, bowling alley or church during normal business hours. If the premises are locked (after hours) then they need to obtain permission or if no permission is forthcoming, a warrant. Attempting to prevent such an action can have significant legal penalties.
I share this not to raise alarm or encourage anxiety but to assure that our pastors, lay leaders, and communities have clear information. I have also attached the ELCA Sanctuary guidelines that were developed after the 2019 Churchwide Assembly.
Thank you,
Bishop Gronberg