How does the language preachers, politicians or reporters use impact the kind of immigration policies we might make or opinions we have about migrants themselves?

In my first two pieces as Faith and Immigration Reporter at Sojourners magazine, I take a look at both issues.

In the one, I explore how more than colloquial conundrum, the language we use determines the policies we support and the theologies we hold about people crossing borders.

In the other, I talk to pastors and theologians about how they are navigating the political polarization around the topic from their pulpits.

Read “‘CRISIS,' ‘ILLEGAL,' ‘MIGRANT' — LANGUAGE SHAPES POLICY, SAY CHRISTIAN LEADERS”

Read “AHEAD OF ELECTION, EVANGELICALS WANT SERMONS ON IMMIGRATION”

The church has a language problem.

No, it isn’t because pastors are swearing from the pulpit. The issue here is with words that lifelong Christians may understand, but many in the unchurched, dechurched or in-church-but-checked-out culture don’t.

Take for example a recent exchange on Twitter between Pope Francis and an atheist.

Pope Francis: Advent is a journey towards Bethlehem. May we let ourselves be drawn by the light of the God made man.

Atheist: Ummm…I read this like 5 times. What in the world does it mean?!?! #Religion is #awkward.

*Read the rest of the post on "the three ways the church can better communicate with culture."