Have you ever wondered how God’s call to “act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly” (Micah 6:8) can empower us to face even the most powerful institutions and advocate for our most vulnerable neighbors?

This summer, Rev. R. Ellen Rasmussen, a pastor from Oshkosh and dedicated disaster-response chaplain, did just that. Concerned about ensuring safety for all—regardless of immigration status—she boldly reached out to Winnebago County Sheriff John Metz. Through prayer, preparation, and honest dialogue, she opened a bridge of trust. Sheriff Metz shared his reasoning for enacting a 287(g) agreement with ICE—empowering local law enforcement to assist with federal immigration enforcement—and Rev. Rasmussen offered community support if ever pressure from ICE threatens established boundaries La Crosse Area Synod – ELCA.

Why does this matter for us?

• Powerful Conversations Begin with Courage Rooted in Faith. Rev. Rasmussen’s approach—grounded in prayer, Scripture, and thoughtful preparation—lifts a blueprint for others.
• Engagement, Not Confrontation. The meeting wasn’t about disagreement; it was about building mutual respect and shared purpose in protecting the vulnerable.
• Practical Next Steps Provide Real Momentum. From examining your county’s 287(g) status to drafting thoughtful letters or meeting with sheriff’s offices—resources and toolkits are available to guide faithful advocacy La Crosse Area Synod – ELCA.

What You Can Do: A Faith-Rooted Call to Action

1. Begin with prayer and Scripture. Let God’s justice, mercy, and humility shape your courage.
2. Educate yourself. Learn your county’s stance on immigration enforcement agreements and understand how they affect neighborly trust.
3. Seek allies. Local faith partners and organizations like Workers Circle can support your preparation.
4. Engage intentionally. Approach law enforcement with openness, truth, and a willingness to listen.
5. Stay persistent. Trust is built through presence—and presence builds protection.

As Rev. Rasmussen beautifully puts it: “If ICE ever asks [the sheriff] to violate the boundaries he has established, I would work with the community to support him in holding firm.” That’s more than advocacy—that’s accompaniment.

These cards are designed to help you amplify your voice and directly engage your members of Congress on critical immigration issues, emphasizing human dignity and immigrant rights.

We encourage you to gather signatures from your congregation and community members, as multiple cards from one church can have a significant impact.

Once filled out, these cards are intended to be mailed to our office in Washington D.C., where Kate Parsons, our Migration Policy Advisor, will then hand-deliver them to members of Congress or their staff.

The address is:

ELCA Washington Office 

10 G Street NE, Suite 430
Washington, DC 20002

This legislative session brought meaningful progress toward equity and self-determination for Indigenous communities in Nevada. At LEAN, we celebrate these milestones and recommit ourselves to advocacy that centers the voices and leadership of Indigenous Nevadans.

These victories were made possible through the persistence of Indigenous leaders, tribal governments, and allies across Nevada. Our work now is to ensure these laws are implemented fully and fairly. We stand ready to partner with Indigenous Nevadans to defend voting rights, expand healthcare access, and deepen systemic change.

Together, we can build a Nevada where every voice is heard, every community is represented, and every person thrives.

From rising energy bills to health risks and disrupted lives, extreme heat is endangering our communities.

With over 500 heat-related deaths in Southern Nevada last year, it’s time to act.

Let’s make Nevada livable for everyone.

As students return to the classroom, we at Lutheran Engagement and Advocacy in Nevada (LEAN) remind congregations of the important protections secured through the Family Unity Support Act, passed during the 83rd Legislative Session.

We encourage Lutheran congregations across Nevada to know your rights—especially as children return to school—and to make sure your communities are prepared and updated. These protections matter if Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) attempts to intimidate or target Lutheran churches and families.

Together, let’s stand firm in protecting our children, our families, and our sacred spaces