Does a warrant stop at the church door? wrote on May 9, 2007 10:52 PM:I don't understand the sanctuary thing. If there are criminals inside then the police should be able to enter and take them for the arrest and arraignment. There is no sanctuary in this country short of a foreign embassy.If you broke a law, like illegal aliens that failed to enter the country legally. Break down the door and take them away just like anyone else suspected of illegal behavior so that they can be processed by the justice system. And if the church staff get in the way treat them just like anyone else harboring a potential criminal.

minuteman wrote on May 9, 2007 11:13 PM:nnnnnnnnnnnnooooooooooooooooooooooooo!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Concerned-1 wrote on May 9, 2007 11:35 PM:The power of the church to offer sanctuary is a free expression of religion and the goverment should stay out of it.

AW4cryinoutloud wrote on May 9, 2007 11:36 PM:I a proud of the churchs for standing up against the reactionary bigots who want to keep anyone of color in a low paying job so that the white people of this country can flourish

It's about time wrote on May 9, 2007 11:49 PM:It's about time that organized religion comes down on the side of humanity. Now if we can get them to stop invoking the name of God/Allah to justify war, oppose contraceptives and marginalize minorities we'll really be getting somewhere.

Thats nice, but.. wrote on May 10, 2007 12:15 AM:Illegal is .. Illegal. You had roughly the better half of 20 years to deal with your problem. This is not the middle east, hiding in a church is not gonna work.

Christian? wrote on May 10, 2007 12:22 AM:Since when was Jeff a Christian? He has been mocking Christians as long as I've known him, hence the reason I do not support him. He seems to change his tune every chance he gets! Grow up Jeff! Are you the SDMM of the SDCM?

dave from oceanside wrote on May 10, 2007 5:31 AM:So the church of whatever finds one or two people who come here illegally and make a minor contribution to the community and that makes all illegal immigration a benefit to this country. That is WAY outside the norm. If the church heads want to help, they can go to the illegal aliens country and help there, not skirt our laws and drive up the cost of welfare. The cost of the illegal alien invasion is strikingly similar to other aspects of life. Take for instance a story I read about buying a bird feeder and what a disaster it was, when the birds made a mess with poop all over the patio, nests all over the place, plus the birds making noises every time the bird feeder was empty. They demanded more and more therefore costing more and more. So the moral of the story is, you try to be nice and all you get is pooped on!

Warner: wrote on May 10, 2007 5:48 AM: Who are these people who have decided they are going give my hard earned money to illegals. They are stealing from me and all other taxpayers. Every action they take to avert the law adds to the cost of controlling the illegal alien criminal element. Civil disobedience is not a right and our laws require that those that disobey our laws must pay the penalty. Notice that I said "our laws." In our country, there is a method for getting the laws changed. If you harbor a criminal, you have stepped outside any possible moral stance, and are as guilty as the criminal by adding to the decline of the United States. I suggest the people who are, or plan, to harbor illegals read the Preamble to our Constitution, the law of the land, paying particular attention to the beginning and the end. I am a Christian

RWC wrote on May 10, 2007 6:00 AM:These churches do not represent God. God ordained government. God is not going to condone breaking the law. Out national security is at stake. Presently we have more terrorist in American than Iraq thanks to our loose enforcement of immigration laws. A nation divided is doomed to be destroyed. Time for Americans to wake up!

Howiek wrote on May 10, 2007 6:13 AM:Noooooooooooooooooooo is right! The police DO NOT enter a church under those conditions!

betty wrote on May 10, 2007 6:20 AM:If the church wants to help the poor mexican people then do it in Mexico!!! Help them take back thier country from the drug dealers, crooked police and the crooked politicians.We have our own crooked politicians who need to be kicked out. Our population is over 300 million today and climbing do we want to be another India or China? This brings down our quality of life and what we can provide for our children. If we have to support millions of poor people we will not be able to support ourselfs. American workers can not compete with millions of people who are willing to work for next to slave wages. I say help the mexican people while they are in mexico and stop them befor they cross the border. You help them by sending them back! The church wants them here so they can collect more money! The churchs have plenty of money to help them befor they come!!!!!! Our open border politicians know all this but they don't care it is for our new country the "NORTH AMERICAN UNION" google spp.gov and read it for yourself.

The Law wrote on May 10, 2007 6:23 AM:Since when is a church above the law. These people are here ILLEGIALLY. Now the religious organizations want to teach them that the law does not apply to them? As a Christian I was raised to have compassion but at the same time the laws of the land were to be obeyed. Please do not continue to fuel the lawlessness that the immigrants feel is their due. Religions should stick to teaching their faith and not get involved with government policies.

These churches need to wrote on May 10, 2007 6:39 AM:start paying taxes immediately and at the highest possible rates. They are breaking our laws and showing the same disrespect that the illegal aliens and edward sifuentes and NCT's shows for our laws. They also should be prosecuted and fined.

Home? wrote on May 10, 2007 6:46 AM:In Robert Frost's poem, the Death of A Hired Hand" he has Warren say, "Home is the place that, when you go there, they have to take you in." his wife Mary responds, "I should have said, rather, that home is the place you somehow hadn't to deserve."

CA PENAL CODE SECTION 30-33 wrote on May 10, 2007 6:49 AM:30. The parties to crimes are classified as: 1. Principals; and, 2. Accessories. 32. Every person who, after a felony has been committed, harbors, conceals or aids a principal in such felony, with the intent that said principal may avoid or escape from arrest, trial, conviction or punishment, having knowledge that said principal has committed such felony or has been charged with such felony or convicted thereof, is an accessory to such felony. 33. Except in cases where a different punishment is prescribed, an accessory is punishable by a fine not exceeding five thousand dollars ($5,000), or by imprisonment in the state prison, or in a county jail not exceeding one year, or by both such fine and imprisonment.

Incredible wrote on May 10, 2007 6:59 AM:So if its OK with all of the religious leaders and churches to break the laws of our country, then why don't they just let everyone out of all of the jails? I'm sure that those people would fight and protest to get AMNESTY too. What good are our laws if they are not enforced? I agree with minuteman, please GOD stop the invasion!! When we will all protest and march to get our country back?

Prosecute them wrote on May 10, 2007 7:08 AM:for harboring criminals.. the only thing these churches are afraid of is losing money on Sundays. Prosecute these preachers and ministers just like the illegals.

Matt wrote on May 10, 2007 7:12 AM:I guess religion is good for something after all.

Long-time N.C. citizen wrote on May 10, 2007 7:12 AM:Don't churches get some kind of tax exemption?? If so, don't they put that status in jeopardy by literally giving America the finger while blatantly breaking the law? On another note, I went to see the 1st Division Marine Corps Band last nite at the Center for the Arts and it was such a breath of fresh air to "hear" some of America's history, even the sadder,solemn pieces. The accompanying photo images displayed on a big screen during the latter part of the show while "America the Beautiful" & "Taps" were played made me even more grateful to live in our country. It drove the point home that we U.S. citizens also have rights and an identity all our own. And, contrary to other beliefs, the U.S. also has borders, and it is these very borders that I am now committed to helping close to shut out invaders who have NO desire to become Americans. Shame on all of you who would want to give this country away. To the churches, yes, your hearts are in the right place in wanting to help the unfortunate, but you don't have the right to blatantly break America's immigration laws to do so. Love your country, THIS country, first for all its given you.

Robert24 wrote on May 10, 2007 7:14 AM:"We are hoping, through these stories, to put a human face on immigration," Coskey said". Great idea; put the face of the low life who killed Officer Zapatella on it, or the coyote who keeps transporting the illegals across the border, or the drug runners. ... Or maybe the family dealing with the grief of the loss after a vehicle crash by an uninsured illegal. My point? There is no "face" to put on this. Illegal is illegal. I feel sorry for Marco Castillo, but if he is bright enough to be class president, graduate from San Diego State and own his own business, he is also bright enough to know that he is here illegally and should have done something about it. We need to quit trying to soften this illegal behavior. Enforce this law, just like any other law. Every law is broken by a human being, and carries consequences. This one is no different.

Churches stay out of politics wrote on May 10, 2007 7:33 AM: Am I the only one who thinks that churches have lived their usefulness? Why are they receiving a TAX EXEMPT STATUS some even rack in millions and millions of dollars in revenues? Not a single one has ever been investigated and lost their EXEMPTION even though many are involved in political issues. This is a political issue and has nothing to do with God. Even I know that and I don't go to church. Just remember Jesus said, "whose face do you see in this coin, they answered Cesar. Jesus then told them give back to Cesar what is Cesar's and Gods things to God. Pastors start reading your bibles!!!!!!!!

JK wrote on May 10, 2007 7:34 AM:Another good reason to tax the churches. If they want to interject their point of view into politics and law by supporting criminals, their leaders should be arrested, and they should be taxed like the rest of us.

OneifbyLand wrote on May 10, 2007 7:35 AM:At the root of this new sanctuary movement is Liberation Theology,covered by the New York Times last Sunday (it is banned by the Pope) giving sanctuary not on political grounds but on economic reasons,a first and it opens the door to billions of the worlds impoverished. Even the Pope is against it! What happened to the separation of Church and State?

zooz wrote on May 10, 2007 7:37 AM:if the churches are so pro-illegal alien, then let them pick up the tab for their welfare, healthcare, education, housing, incarceration, etc. apparently, tax-exemption gives churches an entirely different perspective on this issue. if the churches were required to financially support the lawlessness they "morally" support, they wouldn't be around for very long.

Tim from Vista wrote on May 10, 2007 7:39 AM:The churches desire to help a fellow human is fine but wy doesnt the church go to Mexico and help the people there? If any church grants sanctuary to anyone then the IRS should pull thier tax exempt status.

Law Applies to All wrote on May 10, 2007 7:44 AM:We have to have a Passport to get back into this Country from anywhere in January 08 or a Visa. Everyone! We could eleminate the need for any sort of paper with a micro chip under our skin if we choose foreign travel. No chip, no entry! Can't be reproduced illegally and cuts out a ton of paperwork! Bring on the "Chip." My dog didn't even yelp when he got his! If a Church gives santuary it should be held responsible for breaking the law! This is a Political Joke!

test wrote on May 10, 2007 7:45 AM:test

To Minuteman wrote on May 10, 2007 8:02 AM:why not they are breaking the law I agree with the first comment.... YEEEESSSSSSSSSS take them now open up jobs and housing for the legal people of this country............

Patriot wrote on May 10, 2007 8:10 AM:According to US Code Title 8 Section 1324, any person who "knowing or in reckless disregard of the fact that an alien has come to, entered, or remains in the United States in violation of law, conceals, harbors, or shields from detection, or attempts to conceal, harbor, or shield from detection, such alien in any place, including any building or any means of transportation". This is federal law and as I read it, there is no exclusion for clergy or church buildings. If a church leader offers sanctuary in violation of federal law, that person should be prepared to be fined and or imprisoned up to 5 years. It could be they put their church's tax-exempt status at risk also. However, there is no law against establishing a fund to assist former illegal residents who have been deported.

RWC wrote on May 10, 2007 8:11 AM:This blog is being censored.

Concerned-1 wrote on May 10, 2007 8:21 AM:Most of the support for illegals in this country is from those who are ultimatley trying to exploit them. Whether it's business cutting labor costs, churches seeking patrons and donors, or politicos on roll for votes/power, they all want something.

North county ask wrote on May 10, 2007 8:35 AM:Does Mr. Castillo have and SSN, does he have employees who he is witholding SSN and are his taxes up to date.? If the answer to those questions is 'yes', how did he get them not being a legal citizen? Also, during the Reagan yrs, amnesty was offered, why did he not take advantage of that? Sometimes life is not fair, like most of the time, but if my parents break the law and it comes to light, do you expect me to be allowed to keep the proceeds? Show us you have respect for our laws, the courts have ordered you to leave the country. Then you can apply to reenter legally, with your background that shouldn't be to difficult

Suzette wrote on May 10, 2007 8:40 AM:Fantastic, Wonderful, Great......This news makes me smile and want to dance, Finally the Church is doing what they should have been doing from the beginning protect humans. Jesus is truly smiling at his children today. Thank God for his people who will never bow to the evil works of the devil. To the minuteman YYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYEEEEEEEEEEEESSSSSSSSS!

Laurene wrote on May 10, 2007 8:50 AM:I am a Christian and I can tell you for certain that this violent group of thugs do not speak for me. I live my life according to the bible and I am saddened to think that any Christian who believes in the principles of the bible can or will be participants in these groups who have proven time and time again that violence and crime is okay as long as they do not get caught or prosecuted. I think these churches are finally standing up for the principles of God and I am glad about it. I have been talking to my Pastor about doing this also because it is our responsibility to stand up for righteousness. I understand we need to secure our borders and it is funny that Jeff Schwilk would stop there when he says what Christians want. I think all of us want secure borders but him and his group go so far with the protests, name calling, ... I think if these people can go out and protest in front of a church we have bigger problems in this country than any of us can imagine. I thank the churches who have taken the first steps and I hope others will follow.

Slab wrote on May 10, 2007 8:51 AM:What's this "sanctuary" business? There's a legal privilege between priest and penitent, but I can't think of any such privilege for the grounds of the church. It's all subject to search and seizure, so far as I know (JD degree). If we know they're in there, go in and get 'em. Then after the jail term...DEPORTATION!!!

Real Citizen wrote on May 10, 2007 8:58 AM:You have to love the Catholic church. They protect pedohpiles and people who break inot our country illegally. Why are they still provided with tax exempt status?

Sculpin wrote on May 10, 2007 9:04 AM:Sanctuary is not a legal concept. It is a moral one. Of course the police have every right to apprehend a suspect anywhere they can, but this country, and many others, have relied on an implicit agreement that places of worship are somewhat protected from search and siezure - the theory being that in a sanctuary a suspect may be given the time to reflect and seek spiritual advice and come to the conclusion that they need to turn themselves in. However, it also works as a sanctuary against laws that some deem to be objectionalble to society. The underground railroad comes to mind, as well as the efforts to get people out of Nazi Germany. Now this doesn't stop churches from being destroyed by the government as havens of rebellion...sanctuary comes with a price..but it does serve as a vehicle for society as a whole to stop and think about the merits of the issue, and it creates dialogue. To me, the immigration issue cannot be boiled down to lraglity vs. illegality. If society knowingly chooses not to enforce a law, it makes it very difficult to arbitrarily start to enforce it without upsetting the status quo. We eased into this hornet's nests, we'll have to ease out of it. The sanctuary movement is only a distraction, or a tangent from the discussion that needs to take place, and will eventually take place. It's anybody's guess where we'll be with this in 20 years.

Ken wrote on May 10, 2007 9:11 AM:There is NO sanctuary in this country! The church should be held liability and be charged for harboring a criminal. Being a illegal alien, is in fact breaking the law. This country is founded on the rule of law.Us taxpayers have already paid enough for his education. Marco Castillo is a illegal alien and should be deported back to his home country. Obey our laws and if you want to come into this country, then do it legally.

OUTSTANDING!!! wrote on May 10, 2007 9:22 AM:Finally the Church of God is taking their place on this issue. Immigration is not a question of race but the method used by these protesters make it a race issue. When people are being referred to as ..., ..., ..., ..., traitors.....and the list goes on and on. I only know this because I am a customer of a bank that was recently targeted by this group that is headed by Jeff Schwilk. I was called horrible names and vile accusations were made against me as I walked to the entrance of the bank and again as I walked to my car. I am glad the churches are stepping up to the plate. Good going I hope all churches do the same thing. Evil is prevailing in our cities and it is time for the us to stop it.

JesusFreak wrote on May 10, 2007 9:22 AM:yo man, whether we like it or not (and I don't) we have to obey the laws of the land - period; that's what Jesus taught. Help them by giving them something to eat if they're hungry, clothe them if they're in need, or even give them money for legal representation, but you also have to call the authorities whether you like it or not because it's against the law to harbor them.

American woman wrote on May 10, 2007 9:27 AM:This is ridiculous. The Federal government can take action and definitely should, but what else is new when it comes to this issue? Neither the U.S. nor the Mexican government have the inclination or the will to address the out-of-control invasion of America by Mexico. Duh! That's why groups of citizens like the Minutemen and women have come to exist! When the leadership of supposedly the best developed, most successful, strongest nation on earth turns deaf ears and blind eyes to a set of circumstances guaranteed to end the existence of the U.S.A. as we know her, The only option is for communities across the country to unite against the government. To sit back and watch the destruction would be traitorous and cowardly. I believe the majority of us want the best and safest homeland for our kids and theirs. Win or lose, we have no other choice but to fight, if we respect and revere our nation's history and her future growth as a world leader. Shame on these religious factions for stepping-into a political fight for our sovereignty! I say, if the chirches implement their plan, we notify them 24 hours ahead of ICE's arrival at their doors. Then we go in and take the law breakers. TO CONGRESS: END BIRTHRIGHT CITIZENSHIP!

Fasteddy wrote on May 10, 2007 9:35 AM:Seperation of Church and State?U.S. Constitution ? Hello

Hmmm.. wrote on May 10, 2007 9:36 AM:Lets see 10,000 illegals in a church non-paying, but eating all the food the church can provide? No place for the DONATING worshipers to worship, I don't think it would last long. Hello Fire Chief, Code Enforcement. LMAO!

The sanctuary thing wrote on May 10, 2007 9:43 AM:is meaningless. Read the article. The quote from Virginia Kice states that ICE has the authority to arrest anywhere in the US (with the obvious exception of foreign embassies).

Ray wrote on May 10, 2007 9:45 AM:Religion is a business, nothing more. Over the past several decades, organized religious groups have seen a fall in people attending churches, synagogues and mosques. This translates to a drop in the collection plates and since this is bad for businmess,. they now are getting involved in public policy, a violation of what our founding fathers had in mind when writing our constitution. A brief history lesson, the amendment in the constitution was drafted so no religious group could control every aspect of life and government, Church of England. Now in this country hundreds of years later, it's coming true. If churches want to flex their political muscle and violate the nations laws, let them pay taxes and face justice like everyone else.

janetpie wrote on May 10, 2007 9:57 AM:for pete's sake, they molest young ones and now break the law by hiding illegals, what next are they going to do. no wonder this country is going to the dogs, you can't even have faith in the church.....

Christians Rock wrote on May 10, 2007 10:13 AM:YYYYYEEEEEEESSSSSSS! Finally the church responds to the human suffering. Whatsoever you have done to the least of these, you have done it unto me. Jesus said that about both evil and good acts. Let's practice the good so we can get good things from God.

Top Hat wrote on May 10, 2007 10:15 AM:Once again, Slab has proven to be quite insightful...

Marie wrote on May 10, 2007 10:23 AM:Our Laws have been put in place to keep order."The absence of laws, is not freedom, it is chaos"!!! We can't have double standards or deviate from the law, because of any situation. We need to get back to this truth and stop allowing weak minded liberals sway us from this truth.

Dubya wrote on May 10, 2007 10:50 AM:So this Castillo joker wants amnesty? But if you do the math, his family must've come here during the last amnesty. They might've even been eligible and just didn't apply for citizenship. And given the fact that millions more followed the Castillo's across the border since 1986, then it's only logical to conclude that another amnesty would only encourage 10 times more illegal immigration than we have now! I certainly hope ICE gives him map of Mexico so he can find his way around after he's deported. And like Big Business in general, the Religion Industry recognizes the enormous profit potential in opening the border. I'm sure the local Catholic diocese is absoulutely salivating over the prospect of a few million more devout Mexican worhippers in SD County tithing 10% of their incomes to the church. Gotta pay for all those pedophile priest lawsuits somehow.

Grandma/Mother wrote on May 10, 2007 10:53 AM:He is a college graduate and knew better. Why did he not attempt citizenship? If the church protects him then they should support him. If he was on scholarships that should of been intended for legal citizens then the church should pay it back. To Suzette, I think "Your" God is smiling. Did God tell you this or is this what you think he said. Interpetation! Let the church take all illegals in. Is the church large enough and who will pay the cost of their upkeep.

This is not wrote on May 10, 2007 11:00 AM:a religious act this is a political statement. Tax exempt status should be removed immediately and the Pastors arrested for aiding criminals. When does it stop? Don't come unless you do it the legal way. To all of those in favor of this, would it be OK if I come into your house and take up residency without your permission? I look at this great country as my house and these illegals are robbing me blind. Countries have borders for a reason. I can't figure out why some people are to stupid to understand why!

No surprise wrote on May 10, 2007 11:12 AM:The churches are run by a bunch of admitted sexual predators so what's the surprise that they would offer sanctuary to other lawbreakers roaming around our communities?

Matthew 25:35 wrote on May 10, 2007 11:29 AM:34"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.' 37"Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 40"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'

AMERICANS paid wrote on May 10, 2007 11:33 AM:for his education with OUR hard earned tax dollars. He should be deported. He can go live in Mexico and make that country a decent place to live so they quit coming up here and demanding that AMERICAN tax payers give them free medical and dental care and educations. Sifuentes is soooooo biased and racist, he should not be covering anything to do with ILLEGAL ALIENS.

TO NO SURPRISE wrote on May 10, 2007 11:48 AM: Wow your remark left me speechless, I enjoy my church and have great respect for my pastors. I am sorry you had bad dealings with the churches you have attended but I don't believe all Churches are run by predators.

Cal wrote on May 10, 2007 12:10 PM:The new underground railroad. Blessings to those churches.

Biblical Principles wrote on May 10, 2007 12:18 PM:Good going I hope all churches begin to speak out against the sins being committed against the immigrants. I think it is time to speak out now and speak out loudly against crimes against any human being. If God is for us, who can be against us?

Bob wrote on May 10, 2007 12:20 PM:Unbelieveable

Shame... wrote on May 10, 2007 12:24 PM:Where does God say to harbor illegals? Yes, we are to be compassionate and help those less fortunate than ourselves. But the God I serve and the Bible I read says to OBEY and UPHOLD the law of the land. We are to be obedient to those in authority over us. Wouldn't those illegals be better served if we were to show them how to immigrate legally? Shame on some churches for encouraging lawlessness. If the church is breaking the law then go get 'em.

Concerned-1 wrote on May 10, 2007 12:25 PM:First of all the post at 11:35 was not from me. In fact, it states quite the opposite of how I view the subject. Not sure the motives of someone using another's regular posting name to post a conflicting point of veiw. For the record, I veiw organized relgion as a sham to fleece our wallets. And again, just like business, and the politicos, all supporters of illegals are out for something. Except maybe these bible beating posters, who are just plain lost. As for the Concerned-1 imposter: get a life!

To Dubya wrote on May 10, 2007 12:36 PM:You forgot something. No only will amnesty encourage more illegal immigration, but it will lead to 10 times more LEGAL immigration in the form of family members of the formally illegal immigrants. This is known as "chain migration" and is the dirty little secret the pro-amnesty crowd doesn't want in the public debate. The impact on the federal budget (your wallet) will be huge.

To Matthew25 wrote on May 10, 2007 12:55 PM:As a Christian, I agree we must help the needy and spead the Good News, but where in God's Word does He encourage us to disobey the laws of our government? We commit a crime if we hide one who has committed a crime from the government.

surprised wrote on May 10, 2007 12:57 PM:I am so surprised to here one of the comments here that talked about the fact that people of color are in low paying jobs and kept down. I mean really, you only hold yourself down. There are so many opportunities for people of color, just look around. Illegal is Illegal regardless of your color.

Ellis Island wrote on May 10, 2007 1:01 PM:Give me your tired, your poor, but make them LEGAL, speak English, obey laws, pay for cimes (deport) and for heaven's sake, stop the hand-outs.

Christel wrote on May 10, 2007 1:02 PM:I agree with Cal. May God richly bless those churches.

Bogus Blog wrote on May 10, 2007 1:13 PM:A lot of the posts are screwy today. I notice many imposters putting a left wing twist to a right-wing posters name. Could it be the Edward influence? Respectfully, Concerned-1.

To all following scripture wrote on May 10, 2007 1:16 PM:In reality if we should feed and take care of the illegals I am so happy that you are doing God's work to letter. Did you know that there are children starving around the world. They are hungry and cold. Did you know that there are children in America that are living in the streets. Have you been to a homeless shelter. When you start stating the Bible please look in the mirror and see ask yourself "What am I doing for these starving children" Didn't scripture say something about giving until it heart. I don't know much about the Bible but wasn't wasn't there something about a woman only giving a few pennies because that was all she had and the rich not giving as much as she did? If you know the Bible you know what I am talking about. I bet you live in nice homes, drive nice cars and your kids have modern technology. Then you have the nerve to talk about taking care of your brothers and sisters. Who cast the first stone, not me as I don't believe God said we are to take care of all illegal aliens. I bet there are going to be a lot of homes and cars sold, as I bet you are downscaling so you can give your money to the poor.

Hatemongers Rewarded wrote on May 10, 2007 1:33 PM:This article mentions one church, and all of Christianity is bashed. At our church we had an incident of child molestation by a staff member and we were the only ones that prosecuted. The childs parents actually asked the judge for leniency. The sloppy immigration enforcement of this country has created a very hateful issue. But it is beyond a political issue at this point. Yes, we need to enforce the illegal immigration laws on the books, but we need to realize that these are humans. Whether they were our responsibility at first doesn't matter, they are now. And we need to come up with a humane plan and ENFORCE it. Amnesty? Last chance, then the walls go up and deportation starts.

Unbelievable wrote on May 10, 2007 1:45 PM:You need to round up all these religious leaders and send them packing. They are breaking our laws and I hope ICE walks right into these churches and starts arresting. God Bless America!

To Biblical Principals wrote on May 10, 2007 2:39 PM:Another inept comment from the religiously impaired.

Pork Pie wrote on May 10, 2007 2:52 PM:If these churches want to defy the law of the nation that allows them to worship according to their own beliefs, then let's strip away their tax-exempt status.

Sculpin wrote on May 10, 2007 3:02 PM:If we can agree that the two most important contributors to a healty economy are capital and labor, why is capital allowed, for the most part to flow freely across borders but labor is not? From a purely economic perspective, this makes absolutely no sense! Now, I have my issues with organized religion (but I have no issues with their right to exist), but I'm glad to see that there still exists that spark of social conscience that all religions are know for...especially when it's on the side of capitalism and democracy!

AEQUITAS ET VERITAS wrote on May 10, 2007 3:10 PM:Hooray for the churches. And by the way it's not just Christian churches, Jewish and Muslim religious leaders have signed on to the sanctuary program also. To those wannabee lawyers puffing and huffing on here about the dire legal consequences, forget it. Not gonna happen. The Feds are NOT going to pit themselves against the churches to drag a few migrants out of the place of worship. That's a political nightmare they will stay out of. Sanctuary by the churches is an ancient concept and it was common in medieval Europe for the Church to give sanctuary from arrest by the King. It's firmly entrenched in common law (take note wannabee lawyers!).As for Marco Castillo, Sen. Feinstein or Sen Boxer will probably get a private bill through Congress to legitimate his status probably granting citizenship (naturalization), given the merits of his case. Pres. Bush is sympathetic to plights such as these and would sign the bill. Deportation of migrants now flies in the face of the intent of the Congress and the President and their announced intention to legalize migrants with a path to naturalization, including their families!! Hang in there migrants, HELP IS ON THE WAY!!

Not a human rights issue? wrote on May 10, 2007 3:49 PM:These people are not being threatened with torture, physical harm or incarceration. How can you call it 'sanctuary'? Sanctuary from breaking the law? From what? I feel for the High School King but he knows he's here illegally. Why didn't he apply for his papers? Let him spend his US dollars now to defend himself in court. And I agree, offering santuary to immigration law breakers should void the tax exemption these churches are holding. If they want to enter the political field then they can pay taxes like everyone else.

My Family and I wrote on May 10, 2007 4:16 PM:will leave our church if they do something as unamerican as this, and yes we will take with us are $50,000 per year offerings!

Reardon wrote on May 10, 2007 4:21 PM:This program has "limited utility." There will be a very limited number of churches, and a massive number of illegal aliens. Even if a church became a "clown house" and packed the illegals to the rafters, all it will do is to bankrupt the church membership. Will the churches take in members of MS13, or will the church be selective? If they are selective, they are not being "Christian" and if they take in MS13 members the church will get what it so richly deserves...and that will end this stupid "movement."

to my family wrote on May 10, 2007 4:29 PM:That's a good one. Gee, you're rich! It's too bad you can't spell and are so illiterate. "are" = "our"? I doubt that you are even a member of a church, let alone giving big bucks to it!!

Kay wrote on May 10, 2007 4:45 PM:Let the churchs harbor the illegal aliens and pay for their way to citizenship. At least the taxpayer won't be paying - the congregation of the Churchs' will pay. Wonder how long the congregation will support that. Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

Why pay rent and food wrote on May 10, 2007 4:49 PM:move into a local church today! ;)

Jean wrote on May 10, 2007 5:55 PM:Santuary for illegals - quite a few things are illegal - murder, rape, crack etc - are all covered by santuary? Where do we draw the line?

Ask wrote on May 10, 2007 6:14 PM:Can I move too, 3 hots and a cot, no bills, no nothing, SWEET!!!!!!

You Legal People wrote on May 10, 2007 6:28 PM:All you legal people here posting should be thankful you were BORN in this great Country, for maybe in your next life you will be born in a 3rd world country...God Bless You too!

El Jefe wrote on May 10, 2007 6:42 PM:The Church of the Inquistion? The Church that lies to hide & protect pedophiles? The Church that historically participated in the abuse of Native Americans and who currently is excempt from having to pay property taxes & enjoys free Police Protection & Fire Protection while the rest of us pay through the nose? Now they want to thumb their noses at our laws on immigration too? Where is the ACLU now that we need them? Its time for a ballot initiative outlawing the very concept of sactuary. I'm signing!

In answer to AW4cryinoutloud: wrote on May 10, 2007 6:51 PM:Get off the race crap. This issue has nothing to do with race. It has to do with whether they came here illegally from China, Russia, Vietnam, India, Nigeria, Spain, Iran, ... etc. (get the picture?? No bigotry!) LEGAL immigration is instilled in our culture; ILLEGAL immigration undermines the very foundation of our nation.

Mary wrote on May 10, 2007 7:11 PM:Why are these "compassionate" churches not demanding that the corrupt, non-tax-paying rich of Mexico pay for social services for their masses of poor people? Why do they expect middle-class, law-abiding, tax-paying American citizens struggling to survive on 45K a year to shoulder the tax burden that rightfully belongs to people such as Carlose Slim Helou, the 2nd richest man in the entire world? "Christian," my foot. These churches want pew-fillers and they expect middle-class American citizens to subsidize their missionary activitis. Nothing doin.' Go down to Mexico city and preach Bible verses at Carlos Slim Helou and the corrupt Mexican government. The middle-class American citizens are SICK of picking up the tab for the 2nd richest man in the world and his cronies.

To Mary wrote on May 10, 2007 7:28 PM:Amen but I barely make 30K a year

still learning the meaning of compassion wrote on May 10, 2007 8:08 PM:So many posters haven't read the article very carefully. Those who deride Mr Castillo for not applying for legal status, note that WAS DONE by his family 10 years ago. Apparently the family attorney didn't file the papers correctly leaving the family in legal limbo. To the poster who criticized him for not filing for amnesty during the Reagan years, please review the gentleman's age. He's 25, so 19 years ago (the end of the Reagan presidency) he would have been all of 6 years old! I support legal AND ethical practice by all. While I'd much prefer that citizens of rural Mexico and other Central American countries be able to support their families while living in their home communities (and I believe they'd choose that too) they cannot support their families, can't even feed their families, with the work available at home. Most immigrants follow a dangerous and harrowing route to get into the United States, with the sole purpose of earning money to support their family members back home. Think about it...if your family was starving and there was work elsewhere, wouldn't you do ANYTHING and EVERYTHING you could to keep your family fed? If your family was starving, would you care about immigration laws or would feeding your family come first? For those of you saying "why don't you go to Mexico and try to help people there?" well, both adults in our household do that as often as we can fit it into our otherwise very busy lives. The people who live even across the border in the colonias have such a hard life and try so hard to make it through life. I encourage all of you readers to bypass the tourist section of TJ (Revolucion) and join a church group volunteering in the Tijuana colonias every now and then. Many church groups of all denominations go down there on a regular basis to volunteer with schools, orphanages and health clinics. It's quite an education for us gringos, and you will have a whole new understanding about the complexity of border issues. Remember, first of all things, God is Love!

After Amnesty wrote on May 10, 2007 9:06 PM:Illegal immigrants will continue to invade the US, even after so-called comprehensive immigration reform. Congress must stop both sanctuary churches and cities!

Immoral Immigrants wrote on May 10, 2007 9:17 PM:The only moral justification for coming here illegally is if a person is forced to emigrate from their home country as, for example, a refugee or an assylum seeker. Included in 'forced' would be wars, famine, fascism, etc. None of that is happening in Mexico. Like California's 49ers, the current wave of immigrants from Mexico are merely looking to live a better life. However, the 49ers waited until it was legal. Wanting to get 'rich' provides no moral justification for illegally entering the United States. It is not unusual for a person, lacking morals, to violate other laws. That unwillingness to voluntarily follow the law is one of the things that make this current illegal immigration invasion so costly to our civic order, institutions, and morals. Churches providing sanctuary are building on sandy ground.

Carson wrote on May 11, 2007 12:34 AM:Federal Immigration and Nationality Act Section 8 USC 1324(a)(1)(A)(iv)(b)(iii) "Any person who . . . encourages or induces an alien to . . . reside . . . knowing or in reckless disregard of the fact that such . . . residence is . . . in violation of law, shall be punished as provided . . . for each alien in respect to whom such a violation occurs . . . fined under title 18 . . . imprisoned not more than 5 years, or both." Section 274 felonies under the federal Immigration and Nationality Act, INA 274A(a)(1)(A): A person (including a group of persons, business, organization, or local government) commits a federal felony when she or he: * assists an alien s/he should reasonably know is illegally in the U.S. or who lacks employment authorization, by transporting, sheltering, or assisting him or her to obtain employment, or * encourages that alien to remain in the U.S. by referring him or her to an employer or by acting as employer or agent for an employer in any way, or * knowingly assists illegal aliens due to personal convictions. WHEN ARE THE HONEST PEOPLE LEFT GOING TO STEP FORWARD AND ENFORCE THE LAWS OF THIS ONCE GREAT NATION? We may have to kiss the keister's of the illegal aliens but we have many on public record clearly aiding and abetting!

HOTEL CHURCH wrote on May 11, 2007 7:04 AM:VACANCIES, DAILY, WEEKLY AND MONTHLY, BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND DINNER, PROVIDED.

Patriot wrote on May 11, 2007 10:21 AM:Look, Carson did the research too and found the same thing. He didn't make it up. This is the law. Churches need to operate inside the law. Preach the gospel in foreign languages. Send missionaries and financial assistance to foreign countries. That's all legal and consistent with a church's mission. But don't violate federal law and set up sanctuaries to hide people who have committed a crime.

I believe wrote on May 11, 2007 10:38 AM:the terrorist that have came into our country via open borders will put a stop on the open border nuts. It will also harm the illegals here now. There are so many illegal terrorist here nobody knows for sure how many.

Close Call wrote on May 11, 2007 1:11 PM:The three Duka brothers arrested for plotting to massacre U.S. soldiers on Fort Dix were aliens who entered the country illegally across the Mexican border. They lived most of their lives in the U.S. and became home-grown radicalized jihadists. They had numerous traffic citations, but since they lived in sanctuary cities, Homeland Security never knew about them. Only by dumb luck, they paid to have their jihad video written to DVD, and an alert technician notified the authorities. We cannot count on would-be terrorists to keep making stupid mistakes. There are undoubtedly more here living among us in sanctuary cities. End the sanctuary policies and secure the border!

No! wrote on May 11, 2007 7:57 PM:To concerned, the church cannot break the law. Our Founding Fathers made it a point to separate church and state for a very good reason. They knew that the church had great influence over the state and the people in Europe. Churches had the power and the law on their side to provide sanctuary which was political and not for illegal aliens. Any Church that interferes with law enforcement or state matters should lose their tax exempt status. The pro illegal sponsors are hurting American workers and our school children among many other things.

Kristi wrote on May 11, 2007 8:23 PM:Immediately remove their tax exemptions. That will stop it in a hurry.

You are all nuts!! wrote on May 12, 2007 8:10 AM:It is amazing to me that most of you who have commented on this blog have at least once in your life challenged the churches or the activist to take these illegal immigrants in and take care of them. Now the church has decided to do that and you guys are screaming aiding and abeding. Get a grip people. There is no way the government of this country will deport 12-20 million people the numbers are exaggerated by extremist groups probably the same ones you all belong too. Anyway there would be an economic collapse in this country. One the likes that none of you have every seen before. Money is the reason our Congress, Senate and President do nothing about immigration. We have a divided Nation over this issue and it is about to get worse. With some people agreeing that it is okay to break the law if you are an American Citizen, that is a bunch of bunk! No one is above the law. However, we as citizens are not law enforcement officers nor are we immigration officers and we can not do some of the things I have read in this paper or seen on the news. I can not believe some of you choose to use the logic well they broke the law coming here illegally. Holy cow two wrongs don't make it right. My God I refuse to be a law breaker to stop law breakers. Get a grip and face reality we have all broken the law once or more times in our lives so if the Church of God wants to help persons be them illegal immigrants what is the problem? Our own government is aiding and abetting by sitting on their hands and doing nothing!! While the whole time they run their mouths and wag their lying tongues and still do nothing. The church is not doing anything wrong by doing this and if people want to leave a church that is that my friends is between them and God.

Help me wrote on May 12, 2007 8:19 PM:Since "You are all nuts" feels that he/she has all the answers for those of us that are "nuts", perhaps he/she will help me here. Which of the many laws of this country may be broken where the churches will either turn a blind eye or provide sanctuary? Thanks for your enlightenment. I look forward to your list.

State Powers and The Church wrote on May 13, 2007 5:14 AM:To all those who argue the state can't force a church to comply with the law by forcing them and hand over the illegals. Guess again, because all churches are required to be incorporated with state they reside in, before the 501(C)3 status by the IRS could be assigned. As corporate enity they must yield to the state. Guess what, the state won't force the issue because of the political backlashes.

Gig wrote on May 13, 2007 7:20 AM:The Catholic Church in San Diego County should focus on providing full and complete restitution to the victims of sexual abuse by parish priests. Take the beam out of your own eye before you try to remove the speck out of someone else's eye!

To help me God will forgive all sins wrote on May 13, 2007 9:41 AM:God will forgive your every sin. Those who truly follow after God will also forgive all sins. We have all sinned and fall short of the Glory of God. Why don't you make a list of your sins or lawbreaking post them on this blog and then I will tell you which law breaking and sin will be forgiven. Peace to you. Gotta go I am already late for church

To "To help me God will forgive all sins wrote on May 13, 2007 9:41 AM wrote on May 13, 2007 2:59 PM:You will tell us which law and sin will be forgiven? I didn't know God did blogs. I thought only God truly knows who is forgiven??

Identt wrote on May 13, 2007 11:23 PM:This issue challenges most of us on several levels. 1) when our religious beliefs clash with the current political or social reality which way do we go? Which is the highest law? All major religions hold tenets which are in discord with current societal values in the U.S. Also, many of the comments above have an erroneous understanding of the separation of Church and State. The separation is (was, by the Founding Fathers) meant so that people of all faiths would have the freedom to hold and express (even politically) their beliefs, not only those of one religion. 2) On the economic level we are challenged to risk the impact of allowing many that have come to strive after and have often fostered the same dreams we have. Statistics are mixed whether the overall impact is positive or negative. 3) on the racial and cultural level many are afraid of the changes that large foreign influxes may have. We love to travel abroad to experience exotic places, foods and customs, just don't get too close. The long and short of it, fear and ignorance reign - veiled in self-righteousness (which often appears hateful).

John wrote on May 14, 2007 7:17 AM:The Church grants sanctuary to ongoing lawbreakers while at the same time another church is denying membership to an ex-molester. All the more reason why I choose not to be led by the nose by any religious organization.

Liz wrote on May 14, 2007 10:07 AM:In all fairness, when will the church start offering sanctuary to pedophiles? Oh...wait, nevermind.

Help me wrote on May 14, 2007 12:54 PM:To "You are all nuts". Even though you are vastly superior to we "nuts" out here, I knew you wouldn't have the courage to send a list as I requested. So I'll let you off the hook. Just tell us about two or three laws where you believe it's OK for the church to ignore. You do know what laws are, don't you. They are the pesky limits we put in place so civilized people can function as a society.

No! wrote on May 14, 2007 7:31 PM:To Identi, the Founding Fathers wanted to keep religious leaders from interfering with the State. They said it many times in many ways. If they did not believe it was wrong and hurtful to society, they would not have said it at all.

jayone wrote on May 15, 2007 7:34 PM:Religious should stop breaking the teaching of Jesus The bible tells us that we should obey the laws of the land By entering the Us illegally you are going against scriptue. Two wrongs do not make it right. No where does the Bible teach us to support criminal action Maybe you church leaders should read the bible again and obey its rules

jayone wrote on May 15, 2007 7:47 PM:to Gig, You have no idea what you are talking about, The members of The Catholic Church did not tell its sick priest to molest anyone. The Parishoners should not be held responsible for the acts of Priests that we did not support. The priest themselve if alive should be charged and sent to prison for their crimes. I do not agree that these people who claim that they were molested need to be awarded any money. They need to put their past behind them and pray, then forgive those who molested them. I was molested when I was young and no amount of money that I was offered meant anything. It was not my fault that I was molested once I realized that it was not my fault I forgave them. Stop blameing the Whole Catholic Church for the deeds of a few. They deserve to pay for their crimes, not the many Catholic who do no and have never supported any molestaton. It is Strange but the Protestant Churches have just as many preverts, But you only read about the Catholic Church. Oh by the way I was raised in the Church of God Until I was in my Twenties, My grandmother My father, and my Brother were all Ministers. Money does not heal. Greed is their only desire, They just see a chance to never have to work again.

I.R.S. wrote on May 16, 2007 8:33 AM:Bye Bye Tax Exempt Status !!!

Give unto Ceasar, wrote on May 16, 2007 1:26 PM:that what is Ceasar, and Give unto GOD that what is GODs. I think the church is sorta to give the illegals up to the Feds!

WWJD wrote on May 16, 2007 8:13 PM:What would Jesus do? He broke the law according to Pontius Pilot...

HELLLOOO wrote on May 16, 2007 8:14 PM:Separation of church and state...nuff said.

Kick the doors down wrote on May 20, 2007 2:25 PM:There is already a "sanctuary" for those that aid in criminal acts. It's called "jail". Church leaders that engage in criminal activity, should be held to the same standards as everyone else, and the churches should be confiscated, and auctioned off to the highest bidder, since they were also utilized in the commission of the crime. Rather than trying to break the U.S.A., go south and attempt to fix Mexico.

Josh wrote on Dec 19, 2007 5:11 PM:Church or religious organization can lose its tax exempt status for "engaging in behavior contrary to government policy". Tax exemption is a privilege, not a right. Yank the tax exemptions of all churches harboring "Illegal Immigrants" AKA breaing the law, then see how long the moral stand for "Illegal" immigrant rights" lasts. Problem is the government won't do, EVER! They care MORE about NOT enforcing the law, than protecting our country! Discusting!