Courageous Conversations Start with Welcome
When the Table Gets Tense: How to Talk About Immigration with Grace and Courage
The holidays have a way of bringing everyone together—and stirring up every opinion. Family dinners, church gatherings, and even Sunday school potlucks can suddenly turn into arenas for hot-button topics. And immigration? That’s often at the top of the list.
But what if we saw these moments not as something to avoid, but as invitations?
In Start with Welcome, Bri Stensrud reminds us that conversations around immigration are not just political; they’re deeply personal and spiritual.
“The conversation I want to have with you is challenging,” she writes, “but no one will be yelling. This isn’t an argument or a game. It is more of a heart-to-heart for those of us who remain curious.” (Start with Welcome, p. 16)
So how do we prepare for these heart-to-hearts, especially when emotions run high and opinions run deep?
Start With Curiosity, Not Combat
No one ever changed their mind because they lost a debate. But they have softened their hearts when someone took the time to listen. Bri puts it this way:
“Listening wed to deep empathy for the other person’s viewpoint—no matter how opposite it may be from mine—is the secret.” (Start with Welcome, p. 25)
Before correcting a comment or diving into data, ask a question:
“What made you feel that way?”
“Where did you hear that?”
“Can I share something I learned recently?”
Curiosity disarms. Connection opens hearts.
Reframe the Conversation
Immigration isn’t a political issue. It’s a people issue. A Bible issue. In her book, Bri makes the connection clear:
“Being pro-life had to include supporting my neighbors who were undocumented. . . . Every person has a dignity given to them by our Creator.” (Start with Welcome, p. 44)
Instead of focusing on border walls or policies, reframe the conversation around what Scripture says about loving the stranger, welcoming the sojourner, and seeing the image of God in every person.
You’re not trying to win an argument. You’re pointing to the heart of Jesus.
Know When to Pause
Some conversations aren’t for that moment, and that’s okay. But silence doesn’t mean passivity. Pray. Follow up. Share a resource. As Bri says:
“It’s not my job to force you to believe what I do. . . . It’s simply not to leave you where you are.” (Start with Welcome, p. 92)
Practice Holy Courage
Courageous conversations don’t mean perfect ones. But they do mean stepping in with love, even when it’s uncomfortable.
You may not have all the answers. But you have your story. You have Scripture. And you have the Spirit of God.
Want help starting the conversation?
Download our free guide:
Using Your Voice: For Our Immigrant Neighbors
It’s full of helpful language, common questions, and biblical clarity to guide you.
Want to go even deeper?
Bri Stensrud’s book, Start with Welcome, is a must-read for anyone wanting to better understand immigration through a biblical lens. It’s heartfelt, hopeful, and incredibly practical, perfect for personal reading or small group discussion.
Grab your copy here and take your next step toward courageous, Christ-like conversations.
