Beyond Borders immigration conference

Of the many issues currently being debated across the United States, immigration is one that evokes strong reactions. There are so many facets to this discussion. What is right? What is ethical? How can we be faithful to Jesus' call to "Welcome the stranger"?

The conference Beyond Borders seeks to attract voices from the church, from academia and from the immigrant world for a conversation to explore these questions. Together we will discuss the dynamics of immigration in U.S. society today, the church's response and our call as individuals to respond compassionately to newcomers in our midst. Particular focus will be placed on equipping all who attend—immigrants, children of immigrants, church members, community members, students and scholars—to respond to the crisis which currently exists in U.S. immigration policy.

Beyond Borders Conference

March 19-21, 2010
Bluffton University
& Lima Mennonite Church
For I was a stranger and you welcomed me. 
Matt. 25:35
Daniel Carroll Rodas
Keynote speaker
M. Daniel Carroll Rodas

Daniel Carroll Rodas is distinguished professor of Old Testament at Denver Seminary and adjunct professor at El Seminario Teológico Centroamericano in Guatemala City, Guatemala. The son of a Guatemalan mother and an American father, Rodas received his Ph.D. from the University of Sheffield. He is the author or editor of several books including Christians at the Border: Immigration, the Church, and the Bible.
More about Danny Carrol
Baldemar Velasquez
Plenary session speaker
Baldemar Velasquez

Baldemar Velasquez, president of the Farm Labor Organizing Committee, was a pioneer in organizing migrant farm workers in Ohio and other states and is an outspoken advocate of immigrant rights.
More about Baldemar Velasquez
Pablo Peregrina
Saturday evening concert
Pablo Peregrina

Saturday evening’s Beyond Borders concert will feather singer, songwriter and troubadour Pablo Peregrina as he celebrates volunteerism and raising awareness with his newly released CD “Traveling Soles.” The album  is about the lives and struggles of immigrants on the US/Mexico border. Pablo, who has been told that he is “the voice for those who don’t have a voice,”  lives in Tucson, Ariz.

Workshop options
Cost:
  • Friday evening keynote address by Daniel Carroll Rodas is free and open to the public
  • Cost for Saturday sessions and meals, $50 ($20 for students and low income; free for Bluffton University students)

The Beyond Borders Conference is sponsored and hosted by Bluffton University. Co-sponsors are Ohio Mennonite Conference and Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Great Lakes. Co-hosts are Lima Mennonite Church and Brazo en Brazo Mennonite Church and Ministry.