Grant Spotlight:
All Saints – Lakewood
September 2025
Driving Change Through Local Action
We are proud to support ministries such as All Saints Episcopal Church in Lakewood, whose Sanctuary Ministry embodies faith in action. All Saints continues to provide safety, compassion, and hope to immigrant families facing uncertainty and hardship. Their powerful witness reminds us that the Church’s call to love our neighbors extends beyond the walls of the sanctuary—into the very heart of community and justice.
Submitted by All Saints-Lakewood
Standing for Justice: All Saints (Lakewood) Offers Ministry of Sanctuary and Hope to Immigrant Communities
At a time when fear and uncertainty weigh heavily on immigrant communities, All Saints Episcopal Church has remained steadfast in its commitment to justice, compassion, and spiritual care, especially for undocumented Latino families. The Church is living out the Gospel call to love our neighbors, not just in word but in courageous action. As a sanctuary church, it has developed meaningful programs and partnerships that create tangible safety and spiritual refuge for those often forced to live in the shadows.
Creating Sanctuary in Spirit and Practice
Recognizing that sanctuary is more than just a place, it’s a commitment, All Saints has taken practical and pastoral steps to accompany undocumented members through legal uncertainty and emotional hardship. This includes providing “Know Your Rights” education, access to legal counsel, emergency planning resources, and secure transportation to and from services. These efforts ensure that families can worship, gather, and grow in faith without fear.
Spiritual Formation for All Ages
Ministry to children and youth has become a cornerstone of this justice work. Programs such as retreats, bilingual worship, and youth-led events offer a sense of joy and normalcy to young people who often shoulder adult burdens at home. Children from All Saints have found friendship, faith, and belonging through shared experiences like Sunday School and Vacation Bible School. Teens, some of whom have faced their own struggles, have emerged as powerful witnesses of transformation, stepping into leadership roles that bless the entire congregation and the surrounding community.
Faith in Action Beyond Church Walls
Justice is also being lived out through outreach to the wider community. With leadership from both youth and adults. In May 2025, All Saints hosted an event offering basic services (e.g. hot showers, meals, and mental health support) to unhoused neighbors. It also offers transitional housing through its Samaritan House.
Building Bridges, Growing Together
Through partnerships with local non-profits, police departments, and other Episcopal churches, All Saints has expanded its impact and strengthened the bonds of mutual support. These collaborations have not only provided critical services but also built trust between the Church and the broader community.
Looking Ahead with Faith and Courage
While challenges remain, especially as undocumented families continue to live under the threat of separation, this ministry is a testament to what is possible when churches and groups unite around the Gospel’s call to justice, mercy, and love. The work continues, strengthened by the courage of immigrant families, the leadership of young people, and the unwavering witness of congregations determined to be the hands and heart of Christ in the world.