The Shifting Sands of Faith and Immigration: How the LDS Church Navigates a Political Divide
For Izzy, a DACA recipient and student at Brigham Young University, Sunday services in Provo, Utah, have become a source of growing anxiety. The increasing possibility of ICE raids, coupled with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ evolving public stance on immigration, has fractured a sense of community once taken for granted. This isn’t an isolated experience. Across the country, Latino members of the LDS Church are grappling with a complex reality: a deep-seated faith tradition increasingly at odds with the political climate and, for some, the perceived silence of Church leadership.
A Growing Divide Within a Diverse Flock
The Church’s demographic is changing. While a 2009 Pew Research Center report indicated that 86% of its membership was white, Latino members represent one of the fastest-growing segments globally, fueled by missionary work in Latin America. This growth, however, hasn’t translated into proportional representation or a unified voice on immigration policy. The tension is palpable, as evidenced by the shutdown of BYU’s “Dreamers” resource hub following backlash from state leaders concerned about the use of tithing funds. This incident, and the threatening calls received by the center’s founder, Nori Gomez, sent a chilling message to many undocumented students and their allies.
The core of the issue lies in the Church’s messaging. While past statements in 2011 and 2018 addressed the separation of families at the border with empathy, the January 2025 statement notably prioritized “obeying the law” as its first point. This subtle shift, and the Church’s refusal to comment on the reasoning behind the reordering, has fueled concerns that the institution is aligning itself with stricter enforcement policies. Dr. David-James Gonzales, a ward leader and BYU history professor specializing in Latino civil rights and migration, argues this is a strategic move. “The Church needs to make clear to this administration that it’s not a sanctuary church,” he explains, acknowledging the increasingly polarized political landscape.
Beyond Obedience: Reconciling Doctrine with Reality
The Church’s stance is further complicated by its own scripture. Article 12 of the Church’s Doctrine and Covenants emphasizes obedience to governing authorities. However, interpretations vary. Some members believe this necessitates strict adherence to all laws, regardless of their perceived fairness. Others, like Evelyn R., a DACA recipient and former missionary, argue that faith transcends legal status. She recounts a conversation with a young woman questioning whether undocumented individuals could even be baptized, highlighting the internal debate within the Church. The First Presidency has affirmed that undocumented status shouldn’t preclude membership, but the conflicting messages persist.
This dissonance extends to practical support. While some leaders focus on providing direct aid – food, rent assistance, legal referrals – addressing the broader issue of ICE raids during services remains largely taboo. The fear of alienating conservative members, as noted by former LDS leader Dr. Ignacio Garcia, is a significant factor. “These congregants will love you as an individual member in your ward, but then go out and condemn all immigrants,” he observes, illustrating the hypocrisy felt by many Latino members.
The Localized Response and the Rise of Grassroots Action
In the absence of a strong institutional response, many members are taking matters into their own hands. Local wards are organizing aid efforts, and BYU’s Office of Belonging launched an eight-week course to train nonprofit workers in immigration law. This localized approach, while commendable, highlights the limitations of relying solely on individual initiative. The recent agreement between Utah County and ICE to share data further underscores the need for a more proactive and unified response from the Church.
The situation is further complicated by external events. The shooting at Utah Valley University and subsequent vigils, while focused on a separate incident, revealed a broader societal tension. As Isa Benjamin Garcia pointed out, the rhetoric surrounding violence often overshadows the systemic violence experienced by immigrant communities. This underscores the need for the Church to address not only legal compliance but also the moral implications of immigration policies.
Looking Ahead: A Church at a Crossroads
The future of the LDS Church’s relationship with its Latino members, and the broader immigrant community, hinges on its ability to reconcile its core principles with the realities of a rapidly changing political landscape. The Church faces a critical choice: will it prioritize adherence to secular law, potentially alienating a growing and vital segment of its membership, or will it reaffirm its commitment to compassion, inclusivity, and the inherent dignity of all God’s children? The answer will not only shape the future of the Church but also influence the broader conversation surrounding immigration in the United States. The challenge isn’t simply about navigating legal complexities; it’s about defining what it truly means to live the gospel in a world grappling with questions of belonging and justice.
What role do you see faith-based organizations playing in advocating for more humane immigration policies? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
