Migrant Support Network

Our Mission

The Episcopal Diocese of Northern California stands in solidarity with immigrant and refugee communities, rooted in our scriptural call to “welcome the stranger” (Matthew 25:35). We affirm the dignity of every person and advocate for policies that protect families and uphold justice. This page offers resources to support your ministry and outlines our diocese’s stance amid evolving immigration challenges.

The information on this page does NOT constitute legal advice. Churches should consult legal counsel for legal advice. Your legal rights depend on the specific facts of each situation and are subject to change.

Key Resources for Congregations

Immigration Action Toolkit

The Episcopal Church Immigration Action Toolkit

Know Your Rights Workshops

Equip your community with guidance on interacting with law enforcement. Materials adapted from the Diocese of Washington’s Refugee Response.

Weekly Immigration Updates

Join Episcopal Migration Ministries (EMM) and the Office of Government Relations (OGR) every Tuesday at 1 p.m. ET for policy updates and action steps.

Advocacy and Accompaniment

Learn how to become a “sanctuary church” or join rapid response networks. Our bishops have reaffirmed Northern California’s commitment to safe spaces for vulnerable communities.

What If ICE Comes To Our Church

What If ICE Comes to Our Church?

From The Episcopal Church’s Guidelines

With a Judicial Warrant

Verify the warrant specifies your location and contact legal counsel immediately. Do not invite agents into private areas.
Sample Judicial Warrant

With an Administrative Warrant

Agents may enter public spaces (e.g., lobbies) but cannot access private areas without consent.
Sample Administrative Warrant

During Arrests

Prioritize safety and calm. Document the encounter and notify local legal aid.
California-specific hotline: 855-435-7693

About The Migrant Support Network

Lay and Clergy members from each deanery meet regularly to share information, develop resources, and communicate information to keep our churches and communities safe.

For more information, please contact The Rev. Canon Julie Wakelee

Contact Julie

Community Resources

Community Resources for Immigrants and Refugees

5 Steps to Stay Safe

English
Spanish

Know Your Rights

Red Cards (Immigrant Legal Resource Center)
Videos in several languages
Know your rights guide when talking to law enforcement in several situations
EMM’s “Immigrant Family Safety Resources”
ICE Information
Immigration Case Information System
ICE Detainee Locator System
Rapid Response Toolkit (Catholic Legal Immigration Network)
Immigration Advocates Immigration Attorney Directory

National News and Policy Updates

The Episcopal Church

Migration with Dignity Statement
Advocacy Resources: Curated by Episcopal Migration Ministries (EMM)

In The News

“Whatever you did for one of the least of these, you did for me.” — Matthew 25:40
Let us continue to build a church where *all* are welcomed, protected, and loved.