Minneapolis Church Holds 'Lament and Hope' Service Amid Rising Tensions

Mon Jan 12 2026 05:26:41 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A Minneapolis church opened its doors for a poignant service acknowledging the fear and unrest following the fatal shooting of an immigrant by an ICE officer, emphasizing solidarity within the community.

In response to a violent incident involving an immigration officer, St. Paul’s-San Pablo Lutheran Church in Minneapolis conducted a special service titled 'Lament and Hope.' The event aimed to unite the immigrant community amidst fears due to heightened immigration enforcement in the area. Pastor Hierald Osorto led the congregation in prayers and hymns, emphasizing resilience and solidarity, particularly after the tragic fatal shooting of a woman by ICE. Community members, despite their fears, expressed the importance of gathering for support and strength.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — St. Paul’s-San Pablo Lutheran Church in Minneapolis opened its doors for a special 'Lament and Hope' service, marking a response to the community’s grief following the fatal shooting of a woman by an immigration officer. Rev. Hierald Osorto welcomed attendees, emphasizing the importance of unity during these difficult times.

Following the high-profile incident, Minneapolis has become a focal point in the ongoing discussions surrounding immigration enforcement under President Donald Trump's administration. With approximately 2,000 agents deployed by the Department of Homeland Security, the atmosphere in immigrant neighborhoods has grown tense and fearful.

The church has long served as a safe haven for the local immigrant population, located only a mile and a half from where Renee Good was shot by an ICE agent. This incident has amplified concerns within the community, with citizens expressing their anxiety about daily activities.

During the service, worshippers lit candles, sang hymns, and shared communion amidst heightened security concerns. Activists demonstrated outside, attempting to disrupt ongoing enforcement activities and support those detained. Church security ensured a safe environment for the congregation.

Osorto, switching fluently between Spanish and English, led prayers for Good and acknowledged the noticeable dip in attendance. However, he highlighted the turnout as a testament to community resilience. Anna Amundson, a congregant, observed how the fear of daily activities has impacted many individuals within the community.

Among attendees was Lizete, an immigrant who expressed her own fears about ICE enforcement while finding solace in the community at the church. She noted the significance of support during these uncertain times, resonating with the hymn sung during the service that stated, 'Nothing can trouble, nothing can frighten.'

The church continues to act as a hub for organizing community events, with singing vigils and artistic expressions carried out to protest against immigration enforcement, showcasing the strength and determination of Minneapolis's immigrant community.