Thursday, August 11, 2011

Immigration bill puts ministers in tough spot


From Alabama-

Some Alabama churches are opposing a state law set to go into effect next month that is labeled the most stringent illegal immigration law in the nation. Some local ministers oppose it, as well.

Several statewide organizations have filed suit against the state, claiming the immigration law inhibits their right to practice their religion by performing acts of charity for non-citizens.

The Catholic Church and state chapters of the Methodist and Episcopal churches have also signed onto the suit. An Aug. 24 hearing has been set on whether or not to temporarily stop the law from being enforced.

Locally, the Rev. Cindy Howard of St. Mary’s Episcopal Church said the law puts people like her in a bad position.

“This is not unlike the bill in Arizona, which has been criticized,” she said. “For me, I believe I am to show God’s love to all people. Does this mean that if someone comes in and wants to take communion and they are not legal, am I going to be in violation of the law? Does it put me in violation if I show God’s love?”

More here-

http://www.andalusiastarnews.com/2011/08/11/immigration-bill-puts-ministers-in-tough-spot/

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