Document Type

Paper

Publication Date

Spring 2025

Abstract

This paper rests upon the assumption that local churches in the United States have a critical role to play in obeying the command of Jesus to care for immigrants. I argue for a ministry that combines the mission of Jesus with the compassion of Jesus by bringing together immigration legal services with opportunities to disciple our “neighbors,” immigrants who live in close proximity to our church site. One More Neighbor is a ministry within One More, the missions non-profit of Church at the Crossing on the northwest side of Indianapolis, Indiana. The ministry of One More Neighbor is explored systematically through the lens of William Frankena's model for a philosophy of education. Using the Frankena model, I venture from theologically-grounded theory to concrete practices that are employed day-to-day in the ministry. Finally, this paper uses Eduardo, a second-generation Mexican immigrant, as a case study for understanding how One More Neighbor remains faithful to its mission and vision.

Notes

Course: CMI 421, Philosophy and Strategies for Christian Ministries (Dr. Hank Voss)

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