We have received several inquiries about what to do if Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents attempt to enter a place of worship.

Below is a summary of your rights and guidance to help you and your session navigate this situation:

Places of worship are considered public spaces, which means ICE agents can enter without a warrant.
Private areas, such as locked offices or rooms, are protected spaces. ICE cannot enter these areas without a judicial warrant.
ICE may present a warrant to access these private areas. Always ask to see a judicial warrant—not just an administrative one—before allowing access.
Do not speak with ICE agents or provide any information, especially regarding anyone’s immigration status, unless you’ve consulted with legal counsel.
If a warrant is presented, contact an attorney immediately before taking any action or answering questions.

Simply declaring your church a “sanctuary church” or displaying sanctuary signage does not legally prevent ICE from entering your building.
In the current legal environment, ICE may still engage in entry and enforcement actions, even in violation of standard procedures.

If your church operates a food bank or similar ministry and collects personal information:
- Do not leave hard copies of personal data in public areas.
- This information could be seized and potentially used to identify or locate individuals.
- We recommend destroying hard copies and securely storing records on an encrypted, password-protected computer.