1-in-12 Christians Will Be Impacted by Deportations

A groundbreaking new study reveals that mass deportation efforts could directly affect millions of Christian families across America, with one in every twelve Christians nationwide facing potential deportation or family separation.

The comprehensive report, released by a coalition of major Christian organizations, estimates that over 10 million Christians are currently vulnerable to deportation under existing immigration laws. An additional 7 million U.S. citizen Christians live in households with family members at risk of removal.

These striking figures emerge as the Trump administration moves forward with what it has called "the largest deportation in U.S. history." The research suggests that such efforts would predominantly impact Christian communities, with Christians comprising roughly 80 percent of all individuals at risk of deportation.

Evangelical and Catholic Communities Face Disproportionate Impact

The study reveals particularly significant effects on specific Christian denominations. Nearly one in five Catholics could face deportation or lose a family member, while one in eighteen evangelical Christians would be similarly affected.

"Some immigrants were followers of Jesus long before they came to the United States. Many others have found new life in Christ thanks to the witness of evangelical churches," said Walter Kim, president of the National Association of Evangelicals. "They are beloved and vital members and leaders of our churches."

The research was conducted jointly by the National Association of Evangelicals, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' Department of Refugee and Migration Services, the Center for the Study of Global Christianity at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, and World Relief.

Beyond Undocumented Immigrants

The study examined not only those present in the country unlawfully but also various categories of immigrants currently holding legal status that could be rescinded. This includes individuals with parole status, Temporary Protected Status, or those covered under Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA).

Bishop Mark Seitz of the Catholic Diocese of El Paso emphasized the moral imperative for action. "Catholic teaching compels us to accompany those who are suffering," he said. "The Church calls on policymakers to pursue immigration reform that is both just and compassionate, recognizing the inherent worth of every human being and protecting the sanctity of families."

Personal Stories Behind the Statistics

The human cost of these policies is already being felt in Christian communities. Stephanie Gonzalez, a teacher at a Christian school in Southern California, recently experienced the devastating impact firsthand when her parents were deported to Colombia after living in the United States for more than 35 years.

"The last month has been a nightmare for me and my family," Gonzalez shared. "I know that the deportation of my parents after nearly four decades in the United States is not an isolated case."

Her story illustrates the broader pattern the report documents: long-term residents with deep community ties, including active participation in Christian congregations, facing removal despite decades of peaceful residence.

Church Leaders Call for Measured Approach

Myal Greene, president and CEO of World Relief, advocated for a more targeted enforcement strategy. "Congress should appropriate enough money to ensure secure borders and to deport immigrants who have been convicted of violent crimes — but not many times more than what's needed to accomplish those goals," Greene said.

He warned against giving "a blank check" for mass deportations that would "separate families on a massive scale" and "decimate the American church." Greene emphasized that such policies would affect vulnerable individuals "who have not broken any law" and create "horrifying humanitarian crises."