In response to heightened immigration enforcement under the Trump administration, Latino evangelical churches across the United States are taking unprecedented measures to protect their congregations and leaders. The Church of God of Prophecy (CGP) denomination has issued urgent guidance to its congregations, advising them to prepare for the potential deportation of pastors who lack legal immigration status.

President Trump’s revised immigration policies have expanded the authority of enforcement officers, allowing them to arrest undocumented migrants even in sensitive locations, including places of worship. This shift has sparked fears of raids and arrests amongst faith leaders, with some taking drastic measures in preparation.

Bishop Ebli De La Rosa, who oversees CGP congregations in nine south-eastern states has instructed churches to train at least three lay leaders capable of stepping into pastoral roles if needed. Approximately 70 pastors within the denomination are currently at risk of deportation due to their undocumented status.

He has also ordered congregations with endangered pastors to livestream their services and to “keep recording even if something happens.”

In some cases, churches have resorted to locking their doors during services, according to De La Rosa.

Pope Francis has also openly rebuked the U.S. administration’s immigration policies, condemning the practice of mass deportations based solely on immigration status. In a letter to U.S. bishops, the Pope acknowledged a nation's right to protect its borders but warned against policies that undermine human dignity.

“Deporting individuals who have fled their homelands due to extreme poverty, violence, exploitation, persecution, or environmental degradation strips them of their inherent dignity and leaves families vulnerable and defenceless,” Pope Francis wrote. “Such actions damage the social fabric and will ultimately lead to negative consequences.”