Room in the Inn: A Call for Immigrant Solidarity with Rev. Gabriel Salguero

This week, ⁠the National Latino Evangelical Coalition⁠ launched the ⁠AdventWelcome Campaign,⁠ which says, "There's room in the inn." That in Advent, we should have space for immigrants, for foreigners, for refugees fleeing political persecution and fleeing places that are very difficult. That’s why we’re releasing this week’s episode of The State of Belief early – because it’s a chance to hear NaLEC President and Founder Rev. Dr. Gabriel Salguero’s powerful words about the season and pressing social issues, the importance of advocacy, and the role of faith in addressing the challenges faced by immigrant communities, in conversation with host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush.

Here are three key takeaways:

·     The Importance of a Diverse Evangelical Voice: Gabriel emphasizes that Latino evangelicals are not a monolith. With over 10 million Latino Evangelicals in the US, it's crucial to recognize the diversity of thought and experience within this community. They are not just swing voters; they have their own unique voices and public policy priorities that extend beyond the traditional party lines. This diversity enriches the broader evangelical conversation and highlights the need for inclusive dialogue on issues that matter to all of us.

·     Courage in Advocacy: Courage is a recurring theme in our discussion. Gabriel calls for faith leaders from all backgrounds to stand up for the marginalized, particularly immigrants facing unjust treatment. He shares powerful stories of families torn apart by indiscriminate immigration enforcement and the moral imperative for faith communities to respond with compassion and action. This episode serves as a reminder that true faith is not just about belief but also about living out those beliefs through advocacy and support for those in need.

·     The Advent Welcome Campaign: Paul and Gabe also discuss the launch of the ⁠Advent Welcome Immigration Solidarity Initiative, "Room in the Inn."⁠ This campaign invites all faith leaders and communities to create space for immigrants and refugees during the Advent season. It’s a call to action that aligns with the core message of hospitality found in the Christian tradition. As Gabriel eloquently states, “When Jesus said, ‘I was a stranger and you welcomed me’, he wasn’t kidding.” This initiative is a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility to welcome the stranger and uphold human dignity – especially at this time of the year.

Rev. Dr. Gabriel Salguero is a prominent Latino evangelical pastorand the founder of the National Latino Evangelical Coalition (NaLEC), a movement that is non-partisan, Biblical, Gospel-centered, pastoral, and rooted in the life of Christ. He was the former Director of the Hispanic Leadership Program (HLP), and the Institute for Faith and Public Life at Princeton Theological Seminary. He also leads a multicultural congregation as pastor of⁠ The Gathering Place⁠, a Latino‑led Assemblies of God church in Orlando, Florida, alongside his wife, Rev. Jeanette Salguero.

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