On today’s podcast, we’re joined by Rev. Kelly Dignan. In 2017, Rev. Dignan advocated for, and led her congregation – the Unitarian Universalist Church of Boulder, Colorado – to become a sanctuary congregation, housing a Peruvian refugee mother and her children. Today’s conversation will focus on the resurgence of the Sanctuary Church Movement during the past 10 years, and how this influenced the Unitarian Universalist Church in Boulder to open up their building as a sanctuary space. We will also discuss the difficulties involved with a congregation making the complicated decision to become a Sanctuary Church, as well as the victories, joys, and celebrations involved with being a Sanctuary Congregation.

Resources –

Would you like to know more about Rev. Kelly’s ministry? If so, visit her website at: https://www.kellydignan.com/

The Franciscan Peace Center’s May Movies That Matter film is Si Pudiera Quedarme/If I Could Stay. This documentary gives an intimate look into two Colorado area congregations and their commitment to offer sanctuary to offer sanctuary to two migrant women and their families. Register to participate in this programming here: https://forms.gle/mXqNq7EGiFhS3jmj6

Would you like to learn more about the origins of the Sanctuary Movement? The Smithsonian National Museum of American History provides historical information about the movement, and links to learn more about the rebirth of the Sanctuary Movement within the past ten years. Visit the website here: https://www.si.edu/object/origins-sanctuary-movement%3Aposts_68564f448f9b1710776ed1c15201b413

In January 2025, Biden-era policies declaring churches as “sanctuary spaces” were rescinded. Read about how this rescission will impact congregations hoping to provide sanctuary to our immigrant and migrant neighbors here: https://www.nilc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Protected-Areas-Policies-Undermines-Safety-for-All-.pdf