Faithful Response to Immigration Gathering

From the time I’ve attended CYF Camps, Regional Assemblies, General Assemblies, Quadrennials, Women’s Retreats, Family and Grandparents’ Camps, as well as a myriad of other Disciples of Christ workshops and gatherings, I’ve been asked to share my experience.

Throughout my involvement with the Disciples of Christ community, I have participated in numerous events and gatherings. At each of these occasions, I have often been invited to share my experiences when I return home.

Emotions played a significant role in my experience at the Faithful Response to Immigration Gathering, and, for me, they were difficult to put into words. The event was filled with a wealth of information, time for socializing and networking, opportunities to share stories, moments for the breaking of bread, and inspiring speakers. By the end, my mind was racing as I tried to process everything I had witnessed and felt during the drive home.

Clarity came to me during Sunday’s sermon. As Pastor Nathan read Ezekiel 37:1–14, I felt as though the mud had been washed from my eyes. In difficult times, it is easy to feel distressed and isolated, as if we are dry bones in the desert. However, hearing the experiences of those working directly with immigrants and detainees, along with the personal testimony of an asylum seeker who had been detained in Butler County, Ohio, deeply moved me.

I felt the renewing power described in Ezekiel—the way bones come together, are covered with sinew and skin, and finally come to life through the breath of God. My spirit was revived, and I left with a renewed sense of hope and purpose.

Among the speakers, Iman Ayman Soliman stood out as especially inspiring. Ayman, a journalist from Egypt, courageously reported on his country’s government. His commitment to truth led to his arrest at least three times, and he endured beatings and torture in Egyptian prisons. Seeking safety, he pursued asylum in the United States, hoping for refuge.

Unfortunately, upon arrival, Ayman encountered further hardship. A series of situations and fabricated accusations led to his detention for 73 days. When he was finally released, he shared that his time in the Butler County jail was more traumatic than the violence he had faced in Egypt. Despite entering the country legally, he was nearly deported back to Egypt—a fate that could have meant certain death.

After spending eleven years in the United States, Ayman’s perseverance was rewarded. On Wednesday, March 18, 2026, just minutes before he addressed the gathering, Ayman finally received his Green Card. His story, along with those of two women, can be heard here:
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/11/17/opinion/ice-detention-legal-immigration.html?unlocked_article_code=1.SFA.TXxu.eIYtZ0L4GD8c&smid=url-share

After absorbing all that was shared and experienced at the gathering, an essential question remains: What steps should we take next? The event included meaningful discussions about Rapid Response, Congregational Safety Planning, and the possibility of becoming a Sanctuary Congregation. However, what resonated most with me was the emphasis on the importance of small, everyday actions.

During his time in detention, Iman Ayman Soliman credited his eventual release to the collective support he received through these small acts of kindness. He was uplifted by more than 700 letters from strangers, each offering prayers and words of encouragement. Interfaith prayer vigils were organized on his behalf, and members of Congress and the Senate received calls and letters advocating for his freedom. Ayman is convinced that these gestures played a crucial role in expediting his release.

The recurring theme throughout conversations about supporting our immigrant brothers and sisters was clear: the importance of seemingly small acts should not be underestimated. Suggestions included getting to know your neighbors, building genuine community, helping a family with grocery shopping if they are afraid to leave their home, and participating in international or cultural festivals. Not everyone is called to march or join Rapid Response teams, but each of us can help foster a welcoming and supportive community. In doing so, we honor the belief that we are all “Imagen de Dios”—made in the image of God.

If you feel called to participate, there will be a No Kings Protest this Saturday in North Ridgeville. Use this link for more information:
https://www.findaprotest.info/event/north-ridgeville/db4329d5-db9f-4b49-936c-9b87280ceaa7

If you would like to carpool, give me a call. Wayne and I will be attending this peaceful demonstration.

Peace,

Debbie Walker, Elder