El Plan for Hispanic/Latino Ministry Hosts Acompañamiento Training to Strengthen Immigrant Advocacy, Pastoral Care, and Congregational Support
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 10, 2026
WASHINGTON, D.C. — El Plan for Hispanic/Latine Ministry of The United Methodist Church (El Plan) recently hosted a National Acompañamiento Congregational Development training, bringing together United Methodist annual conference teams committed to walking alongside immigrant communities through faithful advocacy, compassionate care, and meaningful action.
Rooted in the Christian call to love our neighbors and uphold the dignity of every person, the gathering equipped participants with theological grounding, practical tools, and strategies to help congregations respond to the challenges facing immigrant families and communities.
The gathering included worship, opportunities for learning, and time for participants to develop plans for the congregations in their conferences. Discussions focused on current immigration challenges and how churches can strengthen their advocacy and support for immigrant communities. Participants also learned practical ways to accompany individuals and families facing detention, deportation, or legal uncertainty.
Central to the gathering was the understanding that acompañamiento, or accompaniment, is more than offering assistance. It is a commitment to building relationships, listening, discerning, and working in solidarity with immigrant communities.
The work continues beyond this gathering. Conference teams are receiving ongoing support from coaches who will help them implement action plans within their congregations and annual conferences. This continued engagement will strengthen local networks, encourage collaboration, and turn learning into sustained ministries of accompaniment and advocacy.
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About El Plan for Hispanic/Latine Ministry
El Plan for Hispanic/Latine Ministry supports the development and strengthening of Hispanic/Latine ministries throughout The United Methodist Church, equipping congregations and leaders to serve their communities and advance the Church's mission.