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Making Theological Sense of the Migration Journey From Latin America

Catholic, Protestant, and Interfaith Perspectives

University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill

This article focuses on the ways in which religious workers in Central America, Mexico, and U.S. border areas respond to the increasing dangers that confront undocumented migrants as a consequence of the militarization of international borders in the region. Drawing on interviews with religious leaders who work with departing and journeying migrants, this article examines the theological bases for pastoral care and social justice actions for migrants in the context of current immigration law and policy. Findings suggest that the Catholic church embraces a communitarian social theology that translates into social justice activities when it comes to migration matters. Protestant churches remain divided when it comes to immigration matters, with mainline Protestant workers aligning themselves with Catholic workers. In contrast, Pentecostal and Evangelical workers, who maintain an individualistic orientation, shy away from immigration politics, focusing instead on the needs and salvation of individual members of their ministries.

Key Words: social theology • immigration policy • social justice • religion • borders

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