Faithful Politics A Christian Vision for Immigrant Justice with Isaac Villegas
What does it mean to follow a "Migrant God"? In this episode, Pastor Josh Burtram and political host Will Wright sit down with Isaac Samuel Villegas, an ordained Mennonite minister and advocate for immigrant justice. His new book, Migrant God: A Christian Vision for Immigrant Justice, offers a deeply theological and politically urgent perspective on faith and migration.
Isaac shares his personal story of growing up in Los Angeles and Tucson as the son of immigrants, his journey into ministry, and his activism in immigrant justice. The conversation explores biblical themes of migration, the role of the church in advocacy, and the moral contradictions in how many Christians approach immigration policy. Isaac also recounts powerful personal stories—from organizing Holy Thursday vigils at ICE detention centers to witnessing communities offering sanctuary to migrants.
Why do so many American churches struggle to engage in immigration justice? How do biblical teachings challenge modern political perspectives on migration? And how can pastors preach on this issue without alienating their congregations? Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that bridges theology, policy, and lived experience.
Guest Bio:
Isaac Samuel Villegas is an ordained minister in the Mennonite Church USA and a passionate advocate for immigrant justice. He writes for The Christian Century and Anabaptist World, and his latest book, Migrant God, explores the intersection of faith, justice, and migration. Through his work in community organizing and activism, he challenges Christians to embrace a theology rooted in solidarity with migrants.
Resources & Links:
📖 Migrant God: A Christian Vision for Immigrant Justice – https://www.eerdmans.com/9780802884435/migrant-god/
🌎 Follow Isaac Villegas on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/isaac.villegas.581
🎧 Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, get in touch with the hosts, or suggest a future guest?
👉 Visit our website: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com
📚 Check out our Bookstore – Featuring titles from our amazing guests:
faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstore
❤️ Support the show – Help us keep the conversation going:
donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcast
📩 Reach out to us:
- Faithful Host, Josh Burtram: Josh@faithfulpolitics.com
- Political Host, Will Wright: Will@faithfulpolitics.com
📱 Follow & connect with us:
- Twitter/X: @FaithfulPolitik
- Instagram: faithful_politics
- Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast
- LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics
📰 Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes content:
faithfulpolitics.substack.com
📅 RSVP for upcoming live events:
Chec...