Focus on Immigration: Crosstown to host screening of new film

Jan. 7 and 14, from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Crosstown Covenant (5539 29th Avenue South; Minneapolis) will host a screening of the new film, "The Stranger: Immigrants, Scripture and the American Dream." The trailer is available at: http://www.thestrangerfilm.org/ 

Immigration is one of the most complex and controversial issues of our time. There are more than 40 million immigrants living in the U.S. with an estimated 11.5 million of them having undocumented status. Many Christians find themselves in the tension between the desire to love and welcome immigrants and the obligation to uphold the law.

How can believers sort through this complex issue? How should Christians respond with both compassion and justice where God has placed us? "The Stranger," written and directed by Emmy award-winning producer Linda Midgett, helps to provide answers to some of these difficult questions. The documentary chronicles immigrant stories, highlights biblical teaching related to immigrants, and addresses some common economic and political misconceptions about immigration.

Following the film, we will enjoy discussion together as well as hear from persons sharing their unique narratives as "immigrants in America!"  

As we approach the end of the year, our friends at the Internal Revenue Service have some important requirements to have in mind:

• If applicable, add Taxable Group Term Life adjustment to a payroll before 12/31/14 so it shows on the employee's 2014 W-2. This applies to staff members with insurance through Bethany Benefits.
• Have the board/council/leadership team include a resolution regarding 2015 housing allowance in the minutes of a meeting before the first payment is made in 2015. Sample available here. ญญญ
• Donations must be received (if hand delivered), postmarked (if mailed), or charged on a bank or credit card (not necessarily in the church's bank account by 12/31) in 2014 to be deducted on 2014 tax return. Cash contributions of $250 or more must be receipted; non-cash donations should describe the property but not include a value. (Search irs.gov for Publication 526 for more information)