Religious Groups Unite to Support Immigration Reform

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While President Barrack Obama was meeting with Republican leaders to formulate a bipartisan plan for immigration reform, religious leaders from all over southern California were meeting to talk about how to do their part.

Both Jewish and Christian teachers came together at Holman United Methodist Church in south Los Angeles for what they call the "Clue LA In gathering." The forum highlighted the brokenness of the current immigration system and called the religious community into action.

Filipino Immigrant Anthony Ng spoke about the trials he faced in school and in the workplace. He called churches the perfect place for comfort and understanding.

"It's a space for people to come out and feel they won't be judged, that they can just be who they are," said Ng.

This concept of caring for others is one that permeates religious boundaries. Rabbi Jonathan Klein spoke about the importance of including immigrants in that general tennant.

"Every Religious tradition we know points to compassion for immigrants and their well-being," said Klein.

The belief that immigrants deserve better has lead to a unity between religious groups. Reverand Kevin Sauls hopes this meeting will be one of many within the religious commuinity about the issue of immigration reform, though he knows change doesn't come from merely talking.

"It must translate not just in reformation, but it must translate in the transformation of, not just laws, but actions, attitudes, and of all that continues to plauge these United States of America."

Leaders hope to communicate this message to their congregations and spur the changes they are seeking.