Immigration is one of the most complicated issues of our time. Voices on all sides argue strongly for action and change. As Christians we find ourselves responding through our faith and our care for others. Bill Mefford, director of Civil and Human Rights at the United Methodist General Board of Church and Society in WashingtonDC, was the guest speaker at Meridian Street United Methodist Church where I worshiped on Sunday, September 25.

Bill gave us a Biblical look at this issue and informed us how the United Methodist Church is responding to this issue in Washington and throughout the US.  To learn more about the United Methodist Church's understanding of these issues log onto umc.org/immigration.

Ondina Schrunder from Vida Nueva UMC, shared her personal experiences as an immigrant from Honduras.  She left her family in Honduras and is not able to return.  She learned of  Vida Nueva with a visit by Rev. David Penalva during a stay at the hospital and has been a part of the ministry for many years.

Marie Diaz,Vida Nueva,  shared in music during the worship in Spanish along with the Meridian Street choir.  A student from the Latino Youth Collective shared her story as a young student in Indianapolis and the challenges of getting a college education.

Meridian Street United Methodist Church partners with Vida Nueva Ministries -- a ministry of the United Methodist Church in Central District.  Our ministry partners are making a difference to those that are building  sustainable and productive lives here in Indiana.