Monday, January 19, 2026- In the wake of intense nationwide protests and confrontations involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, Episcopal Bishop Rob Hirschfeld of New Hampshire has issued a stark call to action for clergy in his diocese urging them to finalize their wills and get their affairs in order.
Speaking at a vigil held after the fatal shooting of a protester by an ICE officer, Hirschfeld warned that the current moment may require religious leaders not merely to speak out, but to act courageously and stand physically with vulnerable communities. His message that clergy should be spiritually and practically prepared for serious risk has ignited national conversation and social media response.
The bishop’s appeal reflects a growing sense of urgency among some religious leaders who feel that more traditional forms of advocacy aren’t enough in this charged environment. Hirschfeld characterized the moment as potentially entering a “new era of martyrdom,” urging priests to consider how they might embody their faith in the face of danger. Supporters of his stance see it as a bold affirmation of moral leadership and a needed acknowledgment of the risks faced by those advocating for immigrant rights and justice.
But the message has also drawn criticism. Some clergy and observers argue that emphasizing preparation for bodily harm could escalate tensions rather than promote peace, suggesting instead that religious leaders focus on de‑escalation and bridge‑building amid protests and law enforcement actions.
The national debate highlights deep divisions over how faith communities should respond to social conflict and government enforcement policies, a dynamic that continues to evolve as protests and public discourse around ICE and immigration enforcement intensify.
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