MCI writes to UMC Council of Bishops
Recent protests against ICE in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Photo Credit: Lorie Shaull
The recent events in the United States, particularly in Minnesota, following the greatly expanded mandate of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), have disturbed and shocked many, causing deep concern for all those affected.
A strong statement from the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church highlighted the intensified fear among those already living at the margins.
As referenced in their statement, when one part of the body suffers, we suffer with you.
Following the release of the statement above, our President, the Rev. Alan Wardlow, and Lay Leader, Ms Elaine Barnett wrote to Bishop Tracy S. Malone, President of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church, expressing the Methodist Church in Ireland’s “deep concern” regarding the violence being inflicted upon so many.
In the letter, they also shared that “our hearts break for the individuals and families being destroyed by people being snatched from their homes, the violence used, the recent deaths in Minnesota and in ICE custody, and the fear that has been created.”
On 5th February 2026, we received the following reply:
Thank you for your heartfelt letter and for the prayers, compassion, and solidarity you have extended to us during this painful and unsettling time. We are deeply moved by your witness and by the knowledge that the Methodist Church in Ireland is standing with us as members of one body in Christ.
Your words remind us that the bonds of our faith stretch across borders and oceans, calling us to bear one another’s burdens and to remain steadfast in the work of peace and justice. We are grateful that you have received our statement as a call to prayer and action, and we take strength in knowing that you are joining us in this sacred work.
Please know that we hold you and the members of the Methodist Church in Ireland in our prayers as well. May God continue to grant us all wisdom, courage, and hope, and may the peace of Christ guide our steps as we seek to live out the gospel in these challenging days.
We continue to join with them in praying for peace and for justice.