Join in World-Wide Candlelight Vigil Friday Night to Protest Migrant Detention Centers

Are you concerned about our country’s detention of children and families seeking asylum at our southern border? Do you want to do something to make your voice heard?

On Friday July 12th, 2019, “Lights for Liberty: A Vigil to End Human Concentration Camps” will bring thousands of people to locations worldwide, as well as to detention centers across the country.  Candlelight vigils will be held in each location as a visible witness in protest of conditions at the detention centers.  There are 12 locations throughout Minnesota where members of the Minnesota Conference UCC can participate.  These evening events begin with speakers, followed by the candlelight vigils. Check your chosen location using the link provided for specific details and time.

The Minnesota Conference UCC voted to be an Immigrant Welcoming Conference at our 2016 Annual Meeting. Several of our congregations throughout the Conference are Sanctuary or Sanctuary Support churches.  At this year’s Annual Meeting, delegates voted to urge the state legislature and governor to become a Sanctuary State.  This opportunity on Friday evening provides one more way for our churches and members to make an impact and lift our collective voice. The national setting of the United Church of Christ is a listed sponsor of the “Lights for Liberty” effort.

If you attend one of the candlelight vigils Friday evening, take photos and post them to social media using hashtags like #EndChildDetention, #ImmigrantWelcomingUCC, or #MNCUCCCares. Let us know you’re there, wherever you are!  Conference Minister Shari Prestemon will attend & speak at the vigil at the Sherburn County Jail in Elk River, organized by Union UCC (Elk River) member, Nancy Hassett.  Find Shari by looking for the red and black sign that says “United Church of Christ Seeks a Just World for All”.  She’ll be holding it high and looking for other UCC members to join her!