UniteBoston

Bridging Divides Across Christians for the Flourishing of the City

Mending Divides: How 16 Boston Christian Leaders Pressed into Deep Difference as Beloved Community

In a culture fractured by hostility, what if the path to Christian unity runs directly through our differences rather than around them? The Beloved Community Lab was created to move beyond shallow tolerance and instead cultivate a daily discipleship of peacemaking and reconciliation.

Read below about the fruit that is emerging from our pilot cohort, and learn how you can join the movement this fall!

By Rev. Kelly Fassett

There we were at the Bethany House of Prayer in Arlington, sitting in a circle and reflecting on the year. As we went around the room sharing what this year had meant to us, two pastors spoke back-to-back. The contrast between them was striking—one hailing from a conservative-leaning theological tradition, the other a progressive clergy member in a mainline denomination.

Yet, the unity in the room was palpable. They spoke not of theological compromise, but of a quiet, uncanny kinship—a mutual affection that genuinely willed the good of the other. One described the year as a personal “journey from tentativeness to greater dimensions of security and affection,” describing their friendship as God-ordained. The other reflected: “In my tradition, I thought I knew a lot about tolerance and radical welcome. But being in close contact with Christians who profess quite different, often deeply (and personally) challenging theological views was something I was little prepared for. The point, of course, was not to change one another’s minds. Instead, it was to find ways to love each other. And I can say that this really did happen, slowly but genuinely… This alone feels like a miracle, and I am deeply, deeply grateful for it.”

Standing at the intersection of such profound difference and profound love raises a core question for the Church today: What is at the heart of the unity we seek as followers of Jesus, and how do we actually get there?

Moving Beyond Papered-Over Peace

Historically, efforts towards Christian unity have often centered high-level doctrinal negotiations—ecumenical councils of bishops and theologians ironing out statements of belief. While doctrine is vital—at UniteBoston, we hold steadfast to the foundational truths of the Nicene Creed—we are convinced that statements alone cannot heal a fractured Church.

Perhaps the unity Jesus prayed for in John 17 is less about structural consensus and more of an invitation into the dynamic, relational dance of the Trinity itself. After all, Jesus did not leave us a checklist; He offered Himself, saying, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” If our shared relationship with Jesus is the most fundamental reality of our identity and purpose, then we believe Christ is the anchor capable of holding us together across deep divides.

However, I’ve seen the Church too often settling for a shallow, ‘kumbaya’ togetherness that papers over difference with polite tolerance. I’ve become dismayed by how this plays out in events I attend: at ‘unity’ gatherings, I often notice that the room is predominantly white, while ‘justice’ events are led by BIPOC individuals and those on the margins. There is a tendency to treat unity and justice as competing priorities, but this is a false dichotomy because we know that God is about both unity AND justice.

Here at UniteBoston, we are beginning to cultivate a framework for Deep Unity—believing that the path to Christian oneness runs directly through our differences, not around them. Our aim is unity in reconciled diversity—a oneness cultivated and sustained not by watering down our differences or focusing on the least common denominator, but through diverse friendships in beloved community. 

Deep Unity is a daily lifestyle and discipleship practice that:

  • Refuses to pretend differences don’t matter, choosing instead to honor the unique cultures and perspectives that enrich the body of Christ.
  • Cultivates the courage to stay at the table when conversations become difficult or uncomfortable, rather than retreating into ideological silos.
  • Approaches others with humility, curiosity, and generosity, remembering that we all “know in part” (1 Cor 13:9) and need one another to see God clearly.
  • Pursues justice for the vulnerable through cruciform solidarity—sacrificing power, privilege, and resources for the well-being of our neighbor towards holistic flourishing.
  • Listens deeply and tends to places of historical wounds, seeking the active redemption and restoration of broken relationships toward God’s vision of shalom.

The Birth of the Beloved Community Lab

Three years ago, a diverse group of Boston Christian leaders gathered around a burning question: What kind of discipleship actually forms leaders who can embody this kind of deep unity in a fractured world? We knew the answer had to move beyond mere debates, books, sermons, and conferences. What we needed was an intentional experience of holistic spiritual formation—a space that cultivated healthy engagement across Christians of differing backgrounds, perspectives, and life experiences. Out of that prayerful inquiry, the Beloved Community Lab (BCL) was born.

We call it a “lab” because it is both theological and practical—a courageous space to reflect, experiment, and practice with fellow Christians in a variety of leadership contexts. The 12-session curriculum centers on five foundational pillars: Belovedness, Diversity, Reconciliation, Justice, and Shalom. We operated on a simple truth: reconciliation is the Gospel, and true healing requires us to press into areas of deep disagreement so the love of Christ can mend what is broken.

The 2025–2026 Pilot Cohort: A Mosaic of Faith

From September 2025 through June 2026, we had the honor of piloting this curriculum with a cohort of sixteen courageous Boston-based pastors and ministry leaders. Representing a vast theological and denominational mosaic—including Reformed Baptist, Pentecostal, Evangelical Covenant, African Methodist Episcopal, Catholic, Episcopal, Nazarene, Assemblies of God, and United Church of Christ—this group gathered monthly to do the heavy, sacred work of bridge-building. 

Bridge-building is demanding, holy work, and our year together was no exception. We navigated hard conversations and conflict involving tension across perspectives and life experiences. This is the hard work of beloved community: coming together across profound differences will inevitably stretch and cost everyone something. Reconciliation is cruciform—it is shaped like the cross and is, by its very nature, uncomfortable.

The unity Jesus prays for is not found by ignoring our convictions, but by cultivating the courage to stay at the table when tension arises. In fact, these places of tension and discomfort become the very soil where we become formed into the image and likeness of Jesus Christ.

Rev. Gina Tillotson-Cordy, Pastor of Lynn First Church of the Nazarene, reflects on how the frameworks, conversations, and collaborative spaces within the lab shifted her perspective, equipping her to practice radical hospitality and see others more deeply as “beloved.”

For Rev. Rocklyn E. Clarke, Pastor of Life Church Boston, staying at the table provided a clearer mirror for his own ministry. He shared that the cohort gave him “a better understanding of the perspectives with which I differ and a better understanding of how to express my own perspectives. It has equipped me to better love my brothers and sisters in Christ and my neighbors who are not yet followers of Jesus.”

Similarly, Rev. Dr. Daniel Montañez, Executive Director of the Center for Public Theology & Migration, found that the space expanded his vision for the Church’s public witness: “I was challenged to reimagine what true unity within the body of Christ can look like and why it matters today. The experience has inspired me to envision the body of Christ as a model of reconciliation, justice, and abundant life for a hurting world.”

Additionally, Jeff Bass, Vice Chair of Stewards at New Roots AME and former Executive Director of the Emmanuel Gospel Center, reflected on how invaluable it was to press into the hard concepts of Christian unity alongside a broad cross-section of the Church, forging relationships that will bear fruit for years to come.

Ultimately, as Rev. Jihyon (Sophia) Kim, Youth Pastor at First Korean Church of Cambridge, summarized: “More than anything, this experience reminded me that reconciliation is not simply another ministry strategy—it is part of the Gospel itself.”

Highlights from the Closing Retreat: Mending and Commissioning

To close the inaugural Beloved Community Lab Cohort, we had a closing retreat at Bethany House of Prayer in Arlington. We took time to debrief our journey together and prayerfully discern tangible next steps toward that vision, committing to carry the work of reconciliation into our own communities and leadership contexts.

One of the most moving—and comedic—moments of the retreat was a physical parable of our year together: creating our Beloved Community Mending Blanket. Each person brought a piece of fabric representing their community or context, and together we began weaving them into what will become an ever-growing tapestry of unity in diversity.

Like visible mending, the goal isn’t to hide the seams or erase our differences. The imperfections are the point. Christ holds together our diverse stories, cultures, and experiences, allowing us to see God more fully. It stands as a visible reminder that our distinct, fragmented stories are far stronger when mended together… even with memories of beginner’s mistakes, like accidentally attaching the tablecloth to the blanket!

We concluded the retreat by commissioning each participant as an Ambassador of Reconciliation, where participants named their next steps to implement this into their contexts, and we prayed over each person to extend this work in the places God has called them to live, work, and play. We will continue to meet regularly to continue learning, practicing, and reflecting together as a Beloved Community Lab cohort family.

When Relationships Become Collaboration

The retreat may have ended, but the work of mending divides is just beginning. One of the greatest joys of the Beloved Community Lab is watching trust transform into concrete partnerships. In our closing session, when asked what they wanted to do with their Beloved Community Lab journey next, many participants shared a deep desire to collaborate across denominational and cultural lines.

This vision is already bearing fruit in real-time. Just this past Sunday, Rev. Cristina Rathbone, Executive Director of Common Cathedral and Rev. Devlin Scott, Pastor of NewCity Church came together in worship and service on the Boston Common. For the second year in a row, NewCity Church had the privilege of serving lunch before worship and joining the Common Cathedral community in celebrating God’s presence among neighbors who are unhoused and housed alike. Additionally, Life Church and Neighborhood Church of Dorchester both co-sponsored a gospel night with the Boston Project Ministries in the streets of Dorchester.

These are beautiful, living expressions of the Gospel and a reminder that the Church is at its best when we cross boundaries to love, serve, and worship together. This is what we hope the Beloved Community Lab will cultivate: relationships that grow into partnerships, partnerships that become shared ministry, and shared ministry that bears witness to the reconciling love of Christ: “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (Jn. 13:35). May this be said of us, today.

Looking Forward: Expanding the Movement

As this pilot year came to a close, we began to hear of leaders in other contexts who share a longing to bring the journey of mending divides to their own contexts. We believe this instinct and dream for deep unity is something the Holy Spirit is birthing in our day and age.

In response to this growing movement, UniteBoston is thrilled to announce the next chapter of our story:

  • Beloved Community Consulting Opportunities & Workshops: We are extending customized training, interactive workshops, and coaching to help local congregations and community organizations put these concepts into practice in their own staffs and leadership teams.
  • Online Beloved Community Lab Cohort (Launching Fall 2026): We are officially opening up our 12-session interactive curriculum to pastors and ministry leaders nationwide who have interest in bringing this to their contexts and cities through a digital cohort space and in-person closing retreat.

The Beloved Community Lab is far more than a leadership program—it is an active experiment in Christian unity that meets this cultural moment with grace, truth, and hope. As we look to the future, we invite you to join us in living out this mission, leaning into difference without fear, and embodying the reconciling love of Christ across every line that seeks to divide us.

Interested in bringing the Beloved Community Lab to your church or joining our Fall Online Cohort? Contact our team at info@uniteboston.com – we’d love to hear from you!

I Love the Pope’s New Encyclical: Here’s Why 

What if our reliance on artificial intelligence is quietly eroding our desire for real community? 

Writing from her perspective as a Catholic theologian, UB Cohort Alum, and pastoral associate at Sacred Hearts Parish, Dr. Elizabeth Woodard dives into Pope Leo XIV’s recent encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas, to examine the hidden biases of technology and its impact on human dignity. Read her  reflection below to see why she loves the new encyclical, how it promotes Christian unity, and how leaning into our human limitations can actually lead us closer to God and one another.

By Dr. Elizabeth Woodard

How does the encyclical impact me as a Catholic?

As a Catholic, I am not surprised to find myself loving Magnifica Humanitas (Magnificent Humanity), promulgated by Pope Leo XIV in May 2026. The pope articulates what I can only call the “creepiness factor” regarding AI. Although he acknowledges that it is a valuable tool, he clearly expresses the dangers of outsourcing our very thinking to non-humans, warning that “humanity can become a victim of its own achievements” (94).  There are many ways this can take a downward turn, but two of them are the perspectives built into AI under the surface, which we often don’t see or consider; and the “simulation of human communication” (100) over real connection.

The sheer speed at which AI can generate answers can draw us into excessive reliance on it, overlooking the fact that the instant response “reflect[s] the cultural assumptions of those who designed and trained [the algorithm]” (100). And while people recognize they are not communicating with another person, the pope recognizes a danger that they may gradually lose the very desire to form genuine human connections” (100) as we become so accustomed to “talking” with the algorithm. 

I consider the way I long for a doom scroll session at the end of a long day. Then I wonder how I ever got along without this daily dopamine hit. Oh yeah, I had relationships, hobbies, aspirations… A screen has much more addictive dopamine than any of these.

So, is it AI (specifically) or screens (in general) the Pope cautions about?

I see them as inseparable. As a mother, I am increasingly aware and afraid of children addicted to artificial simulations of the world, unable to exist in the actual world, like with this simulation of human connection. Just read Jonathan Haidt’s The Anxious Generation for more on this. It absolutely blew my mind. This quote means a lot to me in this regard: “Without careful attention, an educational system lacking in a love for truth may emerge…As knowledge becomes increasingly fragmented, it becomes difficult to grasp reality as a whole, to ask profound questions about meaning, or to develop authentic, critical and creative thought. Many educators already report signs of dehumanization, where people may ‘know many things’ but struggle to find direction in their lives.” (146)

Is the Pope saying anything radically new?

Both yes and no. In many ways, he draws on the wisdom of many previous popes, especially in basing everything he says on the Catholic social doctrine of universal human dignity (that is, we all deserve fair and dignified treatment as image-bearers of God.)

However, while previous popes have focused on universal access to things like food, water, and shelter, Pope Leo focuses on access to truth itself. I hadn’t been able to name this aspect of the “creepiness factor” about AI because I really hadn’t thought too deeply about where all these ready-made answers come from. But here we are: an algorithm decides what I see when I’m doom scrolling, it gives me advice when I need it, it summarizes the webpages it decides are important. But AI only gives the “impression of objectivity” (100). But it is an algorithm designed by humans.

The pope goes so far as to say, the more we outsource our thinking and decision making to AI, “important and sensitive decisions…risk being fully delegated to automated systems that do not know compassion, mercy, forgiveness.” Therefore, it can “give rise to new forms of exclusion.” (102) This has profound implications for the possible dangers to human dignity: “Entrusting an algorithm in practice with the power to select who is worthy or not…is to hand over the task of redefining the boundaries of human possibilities…The exclusion of the vulnerable becomes cloaked in a veneer of neutrality and objectivity, against which it becomes difficult to raise objections.” (103) 

I hadn’t thought of this. Exclusion, especially exclusion disguised as fairness, is really a key component of Christian unity. Humans cannot enter genuine Christian relationship with each other if it is not on a level of mutual respect for the dignity of the other. AI is not a bad tool in and of itself, but it can be used for the evil of disguised bias if only a select few are in charge of what constitutes “truth.”

How does this impact me as a theologian?

During my time as a doctoral student at the Catholic University of America, I became accustomed to hearing phrases such as “the good, the true, and the beautiful” or “wisdom over knowledge” or “faith seeking understanding,” as the basis for how the Christian intellectual tradition aims to follow Christ. Christ: the Logos itself, our “source and our summit.” (Lumen Gentium, 11)

As we each are unrepeatable and irreplaceable pieces of God’s body, we are given the gifts of this world to ultimately direct us to our telos beyond this world. (I might thank St. Augustine for his influence here). But our modern world more commonly treats  “everything that appears as a ‘limit’ — incapacity, illness, old age, suffering, vulnerability…primarily as a defect to be corrected, rather than as a reality through which our humanity matures and opens itself to relationship.” (118) The Christian faith and Pope Leo emphasize that it is actually in the throes of these painful limits “that we can discover a new wisdom, tangibly experience the closeness of others, and encounter the presence of the Lord.” (119) 

This is not new—Christian theology always rests in the belief in grace and divine sanctification through Christ—but AI has given us a new and instantaneous way to try to solve our limitations, uncertainties, and unanswerable questions. It is a true idolatry, in the original sense of the word, to rely more on machines than on God to navigate life’s uncertainties. The Christian theological tradition invites us to look beyond the problems of this life to our ultimate destiny in Christ eternally. And it invites us to look beyond those problems to God as our comfort and sanctifier through those problems. If we are to navigate beyond the problems of this life, what is the source of wisdom we would use to do so? The pope beautifully says, to this, “The Christian faith answers that question by pointing to a fulfillment that does not arise from a technological divinization, but through God’s grace received in Christ.” (126)

How and why is all of this a matter of unity among Christians? 


I see two important considerations:

1.  For the first time, a pope officially apologized for taking so long to condemn slavery. He states: “It was only in the nineteenth century that a formal, absolute and universal condemnation of slavery was clearly articulated, notably under Pope Leo XIII…It is impossible not to feel deep sorrow when contemplating the immense suffering and humiliation endured by so many in stark contrast to their immeasurable dignity as persons infinitely loved by the Lord. For this, in the name of the Church, I sincerely ask for pardon.” (176) 

To model such contrition and to name the importance of racial justice in the name of Christ whose face is borne by all, especially the most oppressed, is at the heart of Christian mission. It’s also at the heart of Christian unity. 

2: Simply put, we’re all in this together. The work of building God’s kingdom on earth, a kingdom marked by truth, connection, and love of God and neighbor—this is work for all Christians. The Gospel compels us to care for each human person, each magnificent human, as precious image-bearers. We don’t make it unless we all make it. 

Why I Keep Coming Back to the Global Leadership Summit

Today, Pastor Stephen Nyakairu from Grace Chapel Watertown reflects on leadership lessons he’s gained over years in ministry through his attendance at the Global Leadership Summit (GLS). He reminds us that the slow work of the Kingdom of God begins with ourselves: a posture of humility, a willingness to learn, and the discernment that comes with time and community.

Building off of the GLS theme of this year, “what you repeat becomes what you produce,” read below to hear Pastor Stephen’s challenge to approach leadership growth with a commitment to the long, deep work that often happens in hidden places before bearing its best fruit.

By Pastor Stephen Nyakairu, Grace Chapel Watertown

The world is facing significant challenges on multiple fronts—division, loneliness, uncertainty, polarization, and complex social needs that affect every community. Meeting these challenges will require leaders who are growing in wisdom, humility, courage, and effectiveness.

No single church, organization, or leader can address these realities alone. The future will require greater collaboration, deeper learning, and stronger partnerships across communities, sectors, and the Body of Christ.

That is one of the reasons I keep coming back to the Global Leadership Summit.

For more than 20 years, I have had the privilege of serving as a pastor in Greater Boston. I spent 11 years serving a church in Shirley, Massachusetts, and today I serve at Grace Chapel. Through every season of ministry, one conviction has remained constant: I want to keep growing as a leader.

My first experience with the Global Leadership Summit came at a pivotal time in my ministry in 2006. I had just begun serving as the pastor of a church that had been established for more than 100 years. While it had a rich history, it had stopped growing, and we knew we needed to transition toward becoming a church that intentionally reached our neighbors, friends, and family members.

I had just graduated from Gordon Conwell Theological seminary. I had theological and biblical training, but I quickly realized that leading change was a different challenge altogether. I knew I needed help, so I attended the Global Leadership Summit.

There, I was introduced to John Maxwell’s teaching that “leadership is influence.” That simple definition reshaped the way I thought about leadership and ministry. He then taught the Five Levels of Leadership, and I began to see where I was in my own journey.

I realized that I had been leading from position. People followed me because I was the pastor. But I learned that positional leadership is only the beginning. I needed to earn permission by building trust and healthy relationships. 

Then I learned I needed to move into production—helping the church accomplish meaningful goals so people could see the fruit of our work together. As our ministry grew, I discovered the importance of developing people, not just producing results. Leadership became less about what I could accomplish and more about raising up other leaders who could multiply the mission.

Today, as I reflect on that journey, I realize that much of my passion is centered on people development. I love helping others discover their gifts, grow in their leadership, and become leaders who develop even more leaders. 

Maxwell’s final level, personhood, reminds me that the greatest influence comes not from a title but from a life marked by character, integrity, and consistent service. That vision continues to shape the kind of leader I want to become.

Another lesson from the Global Leadership Summit that has stayed with me came from Andy Stanley. He challenged leaders to choose to be students rather than critics. 

That idea has profoundly influenced how I lead teams. When someone brings a new idea, my first response shouldn’t be, “How are we going to do that?” Instead, it should be, “What an incredible idea.” This is much easier said than done. When someone brings us an idea, our first response is never to say, “WOW!” Our instincts should be to ask, “HOW!” 

I’ve realized that too often, dreams and creativity die because we ask “how” before we embrace the possibility. Great leaders cultivate curiosity before they evaluate feasibility.

I also learned that leadership begins with listening and learning before leading. Many of us instinctively want to lead first and listen later, but I’ve found the opposite to be true. The most effective leaders listen deeply, ask thoughtful questions, invite feedback, and remain teachable. 

Even criticism can become a gift because it provides information we can use to grow.

These principles have shaped not only my ministry but also my family. When my wife, Rebekah, and I married 13 years ago, we made a commitment to be students, not critics—to remain lifelong learners who listen well so we can lead well together. 

Now, four kids later, we’re seeking to instill that same love of lifelong learning in our children, encouraging them to keep growing as they take their own steps to follow Jesus.

That is one reason this year’s GLS theme resonates so deeply with me:

“What you repeat becomes what you produce.”


That is one of the reasons I continue to attend the Global Leadership Summit every year. I see it as an investment in my own growth. Every time I attend, I leave with fresh ideas, renewed vision, and practical tools that help me become a better leader for my church, my family, and my community.

The Summit has been one of the most significant leadership investments of my life, and I am deeply grateful for the impact it has had on my journey. Sometimes the greatest gift we can give ourselves—and the people we lead—is the willingness to keep learning. That is why I keep coming back to the Global Leadership Summit, and why I want to personally invite Christian leaders in Boston to join me. Not because I have everything figured out, but because I do not.

We need one another. I’m convinced we need spaces that challenge our assumptions, expand our perspective, and equip us for the opportunities and challenges ahead. Every year I am reminded that leadership growth is never finished, and every year I leave grateful for the opportunity to learn, reflect, and take another step forward. I hope you will join us.

Pastor Stephen has eloquently shared the impact of the Global Leadership Summit – We encourage Christian leaders in Boston to join in! It will take place on August 6-7 at Watertown, Wilmington and Lexington. You can sign up www.grace.org/gls

Responding to the TPS Ruling: How Greater Boston Churches Can Help

As our nation commemorates the 250th anniversary of the United States this week, we are invited to ask: Who belongs in America, and what do we stand for as a country? This question feels urgent as we reflect on the Supreme Court’s recent decision to uphold birthright citizenship, and another decision to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitian and Syrian immigrants. Read below to hear reflections by local Christian leaders and action steps you can take to stand in solidarity.

As many Americans are celebrating the Fourth of July this week, a profound moral crisis is also unfolding in our own neighborhoods. Following the Supreme Court ruling on June 25, over 350,000 Haitian and Syrian nationals are facing the sudden termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS), including approximately 45,000 with TPS status in Massachusetts.

For many in our pews, the reality of immigration is often obscured by political talking points. We often hear the refrains: “Come the right way,” or “Get in line.” In fact, many Haitians came to the United States through the CHNV parole process—a lawful process created because of the instability and humanitarian crises in those countries. They had U.S.-based sponsors. They were vetted. They received permission to enter and work. They did not sneak in… Then, because Haiti continued to collapse, many moved into TPS.

Rev. Dr. Daniel Montanez, UB Cohort Member and director of the Mygration Christian Conference, shares, “Many of these individuals have been here for well over a decade. They have made their homes, established families, and sought legal and viable pathways for citizenship. Now they are being told that those pathways are no longer welcome. The rules are being changed in the middle of the game, the ground is shifting beneath their very feet.”

Sarah Blumenshine of the Emmanuel Gospel Center’s Intercultural Ministries also points out the volatility of the situation, “One minute people have work permits, jobs, homes, and the next minute they do not. Can you imagine? You thought you had found safety, and then your hosts back out of the deal.” She notes that TPS holders are not a drain, but vital, tax-paying, law-abiding pillars of Greater Boston—working in churches, education, medicine, construction and transportation. 

The U.S. Department of State currently maintains a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory for Haiti due to extreme violence, kidnapping, and instability. If a nation is too dangerous for U.S. citizens to visit, how can we declare it safe enough to deport hundreds of thousands of families back to? 

Dr. Gabeau, IFSI-USA’s Executive Director, delivers remarks at a rally outside the State House this week alongside Boston City Councilor Ruthzee Louijeune (right). Photo: Steph Solis/Axios

A Systemic Disruption to Our Communities

This decision forces individuals into a harrowing choice: return to unstable, dangerous conditions abroad, or remain in the U.S. in the hopes of future immigration relief. Many local Christian leaders are also speaking out with grief and conviction:

  • Pastor “Keke” Dieufort Fleurissaint, founder of the Mattapan-based True Alliance Center, reports being inundated with calls from TPS holders fearing sudden separation from their U.S.-born children. As he told The Boston Globe, “My hope was for compassion to prevail… How could anyone let children go back to Haiti like that—into such a dangerous situation?” He adds: “This abrupt termination threatens family stability, job security, and the well-being of thousands of hardworking individuals who have contributed to our economy, paid taxes, cared for our loved ones, and strengthened our neighborhoods. We call on policymakers to pursue humane solutions that recognize the dignity, contributions, and aspirations of those who have long called this country home.”
  • Bishop Nicolas C. Homicil of the Voice of the Gospel Tabernacle Church reports that the end of TPS for Haitians has caused significant economic and emotional distress within his congregation. Many members have received work termination notices, creating deep uncertainty about meeting basic living expenses like rent and food. This unemployment affects not only those in the U.S. but also their families in Haiti who rely on their support. Furthermore, some parents are making the heartbreaking decision to appoint Bishop Homicil as their children’s legal guardian should they face deportation and family separation.
  • Catholic Archbishop Richard G. Henning strongly condemned the revocation and shared a rare public statement calling the decision a “disaster” for local communities and encouraged people to raise their voices on behalf of the vulnerable.
  • Rev. Kelly Fassett, shares, “Last week, while in New York for a conference, I was looking across the harbor toward the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island and saw a quote by President John F. Kennedy about how immigrants have enriched and strengthened the fabric of American life. This is TRUTH – Yet there is so much misinformation spread about immigrants being a drain. In fact, research has shown that the taxes immigrants pay actually save the government trillions of dollars in real terms and fuel the entrepreneurship that keeps our local economies growing.”

How Christians in Boston Can Respond Right Now

This Fourth of July invites us to do more than celebrate; it calls us to reckon with how we are actually living out our Christian values. Does my ultimate allegiance belong to the Kingdom of God, or do I subtly put my hope in my political party? How can I better embody Jesus’ call to love my neighbor, recognizing that every person bears the image of God and is bestowed with inherent dignity? Finally, how can we navigate the tension between respecting our nation’s laws and fulfilling our biblical mandate to protect the vulnerable?

Damaris Velasquez, Director of Programs of Agencia ALPHA, shares, “This is the time for the Church of God—and I emphasize ‘Church’ with a capital ‘C.’ It is that Church, representing many races, languages, skin colors, and socioeconomic backgrounds, that needs to take a stand and reflect the values given by Christ: love, compassion, humility, grace, and placing others before ourselves. Let us not forget that we are testifying to the God we serve—to our families, neighbors, elected officials, and systems—every time we support or fail to support the call God has given us.”

Here are tangible ways you and your congregation can follow Jesus to stand in active solidarity with our Haitian and Syrian neighbors this week:

1. Individual Legal Aid and Emergency Planning

Ensure that the immigrant families within your sphere of influence are legally protected and prepare:

2. Congregational Planning

Rev. Laura Everett, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Council of Churches, emphasizes the importance of preparing sacred spaces for potential ICE activity. 

  • Stay Informed: Review the Governor’s new statewide guidance for Houses of Worship. If you witness federal agent misconduct, please report it via the state’s official portal. The Massachusetts Council of Churches is hosting a training on this guidance on Tuesday, July 28 at 6 p.m.
  • Utilize Wisdom: A Boston-area pastor has developed a guide for pastors to support immigrant congregants before, during, and after detention: [English Version; Spanish Version].
  • Join the Chaplaincy of Presence Team: the Massachusetts Council of Churches coordinates a ‘ministry of presence’ in the parking lot of the Burlington ICE facility to support neighbors attending mandatory check-ins where unexpected arrests frequently occur. Chaplains provide listening, support, and prayer to those arriving and their families. As detentions are expected to rise with the end of TPS, clergy and board-certified chaplains are invited to join their weekday morning rotation (7:30–10:30 a.m.). Contact Rev. Dave Woessner at dave@masscouncilofchurches.org to sign up or for more information.

3. Advocacy and Education

  • Call Your Representatives: Reach out to your Senators and urge them to support S. 4814, a legislative pathway to extend TPS protections for Haiti. The 5 Calls Website and App is a fabulous resource to find your senators, with scripts to advocate for the issues you care about.  
  • Join the Boston Immigrant Resource Dashboard: Partner with local faith and community networks to share real-time updates, support initiatives, and coordinate localized responses for immigrant families.
  • Deepen Your Perspective: In his local pastoral reflection, For Such a Time as This, Gregg Detwiler explores the Church’s response to 2026 U.S. immigration policy, arguing that this is not merely a political issue, but a human, theological, and missiological one.

4. Financial Solidarity with Haitian-Led Organizations

Families are already being affected by the end of TPS. Now that the end of TPS has gone into effect on July 1st, Haitians have lost their work authorization, jeopardizing their ability to work and care for themselves and their families. With this in mind, the most pressing needs are funds to provide housing assistance, food assistance, and legal fees. 

Johane Alexis-Phanor of the Boston Haitian Resource Hub emphasizes the importance of supporting Haitian-led organizations. These groups provide essential, culturally competent services to the community and remain dedicated to long-term support even after the initial crisis fades.

Here are a few trusted and vetted Haitian-Led Organizations & Nonprofits:

5. Pray

Rev. Manny Daphnis, Migrant Resource Coordinator for the Fellowship of Haitian Evangelical Pastors of New England (FHEPNE), offers a powerful challenge to the Church: he urges Christians to pray fervently for mercy from government officials, asking that they suspend TPS deportations and halt enforcement actions that cause families to live in constant fear.

O God, we lift up our Haitian and Syrian brothers and sisters, as well as many immigrants who are facing deep uncertainty today. 

We pray for your protection to surround families who fear separation, and we ask for your mercy to rest upon our nation’s leaders, that they may choose compassion over harsh enforcement. 

Help us to live into our nation’s ideals of liberty and justice for all. 

Grant us, your Church, the courage to stand in the gap—to be a sanctuary of hospitality that welcomes the stranger, knowing that in caring for the ‘least of these,’ we are truly serving you.

Bind our community together in this work, and help us to trust that even in these harrowing times, your Kingdom of justice and belonging is near. We remember that Christians shall be known by our love; may that be said of us today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Illuminate Photoblog: A Celebration of Christian Unity, Reconciliation, and Hope in Boston

On May 29, 80 people gathered for UniteBoston’s “Illuminate” Fundraising Celebration and Community Gathering. In a season where profound division, polarization, injustice and violence can feel overwhelming, we came together to declare that “the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness cannot overcome it” (John 1:5). At UniteBoston, we are committed to equipping Christians to be bridge-builders and agents of reconciliation, justice, peace, and repair. This gathering called Christians in Greater Boston to embody the light of Christ boldly and beautifully for the flourishing of our city.

Voices of the Movement

The gathering featured a rich tapestry of local leaders and storytellers who bore witness to God’s work of reconciliation, justice, and peacemaking.

Rev. Gina Tillotson-Cordy (Pastor of First Church of the Nazarene in Lynn) shared a moving testimony from her time in the Beloved Community Lab. She spoke of the hard, holy work of sixteen diverse pastors meeting monthly to learn and practice unity, justice, and reconciliation in their own contexts – and the vital truth of seeing everyone we meet as beloved children of God.

Rev. Dr. Melinda Priest (UB Board Member and Lead Pastor of Awaken City Church) highlighted the importance of Convene. She shared a powerful blueprint for city-wide renewal based on her research interviewing 39 Greater Boston faith leaders. Her research shows that regular, cross-sector convening strengthens the Christian witness, fuels innovative resource sharing, and contributes to the multiplication of disciples, leaders, and churches.

Loving Big: Keynote Address by Rozella Haydée White

The centerpiece of the evening was an inspiring keynote address by public theologian, author, and coach Rozella Haydée White. Drawing from her foundational work on The Power of Revolutionary Relationships to Transform the World, Rozella challenged attendees to look past sentimental, anemic forms of love to practice a love that is Christ-like, life-giving, justice-seeking, and restorative.

“UniteBoston’s mission rests on a profound theological truth – relationships change us. When we sit across the table from one another, hear one another’s stories, and choose curiosity over assumptions and judgment, light begins to emerge. I believe the future of the Christian church will not be in how loud we argue but by how deeply we love… May we illuminate. May we bring light to hard places. May we create clarity in confusion. And may Boston encounter in us not only a more brighter church but also a more loving one, for the witness of the gospel and the glory of God.”

Following her address, Revs. Kelly and Devlin joined Rozella for a dynamic, interactive fireside chat, utilizing live polling from the audience to address the real-life tensions and questions surfacing in the room.

Growth and Sustainability

A central milestone celebrated during the evening was a monumental structural shift for the organization: for the first time in its 16-year history, UniteBoston is operating with two full-time staff members. This growth allows Executive Director Rev. Kelly Fassett and Managing Director Rev. Devlin Scott to step out of day-to-day administrative bottlenecks and focus strictly on scaling regional programmatic innovations and institutional strategy.

Your investment directly fuels these core avenues of citywide transformation:

  1. The Beloved Community Lab: Moving from a pilot framework to offering direct training, coaching, and workshops for local congregations to cultivate peacemaking habits.
  2. The Boston Sankofa Journey: Centering and preserving the legacy of historic Black Christian leaders on a public digital archive, and inviting individuals into a personal “story-collecting movement” to foster historical truth-telling.
  3. Collaborative Outreach: Convening platforms like Boston Flourish and the Boston Immigrant Resource Dashboard (BIRD) to build a connected system of care and resource-sharing, so all might flourish in our city.

The Glow-Pass: Keeping the Momentum Alive

Throughout the evening, Christian leaders, pastors, and community members from diverse traditions gathered to celebrate what God is doing across Greater Boston through collaboration, reconciliation, and relationship. This closing moment captures the heart of UniteBoston’s mission: that the light of Christ shines brightest when we walk together.

Through the immense generosity of our attendees and sponsors, we have raised $28,673 towards our fundraising goal! We are still pushing to hit our next critical campaign milestone of $30,000. Will you help us close the remaining gap to fund the buses, staff time, resources, and shared tables that keep our bridge-building movement running?

👉 Partner with Us: Click Here to Give to the Illuminate Campaign

A heartfelt thank you to our event sponsors who made this beautiful evening possible!

Thank you to everyone who joined us for Illuminate and who continues to support UniteBoston’s work of nurturing unity among diverse Christians for the flourishing of Greater Boston. We are grateful to have you in our community!


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