Ruben Garcia, a man of faith who has been running a shelter network for immigrants on the Texas-Mexico border for fifty years, emphasizes that aiding migrants is not just a Christian mission but a fundamental belief in various religions. He believes that scriptures are often misused for political gain rather than promoting compassion and welcoming strangers.
The criticism faced by Garcia and other migrant aid groups often comes from conservative Christians who use their faith to justify their stance on various issues. For example, Texas Republicans have cited faith when discussing topics like women’s health, gun ownership, and public school curriculum. Some believe that Christianity has played a more significant role in shaping the United States compared to other religions.
On the other hand, state Rep. James Talarico, a devout Christian, takes a more liberal interpretation of scripture, emphasizing the importance of welcoming strangers and showing compassion. He believes that Scripture should guide one’s actions but also stresses the importance of the separation of church and state in a democracy.
Despite their faith, Talarico and Garcia both acknowledge the need for a moral vocabulary in discussing policy issues related to immigration and other social issues. While Talarico advocates for Christian activism that promotes compassion and understanding, Garcia believes that church leaders should be the ones to guide their faithful, rather than politicians using religion for their own agendas.
In a time when religion and politics are increasingly intertwined, both Talarico and Garcia emphasize the importance of maintaining a respectful and inclusive dialogue that respects different faith traditions. They believe that the founding fathers and mothers of the United States wisely established a separation of church and state to prevent division and conflict based on religious beliefs.
Ultimately, both men encourage a thoughtful and nuanced approach to discussing religion in the public sphere, recognizing the potential for both positive impact and misuse of faith in shaping political decisions. By promoting understanding, compassion, and respect for diverse beliefs, they hope to foster a more inclusive and harmonious society for all.
