“Four Days in Minneapolis” (page 24) describes a powerful story of activism, but it does not reflect historic Anabaptist faith, which is rooted in quiet service, humility and separation from state power struggles. Our strength has always been in small acts of care, hospitality and peace, not in coordinated resistance or public demonstrations. Compassion for immigrants is essential, but compassion does not require confrontation.

Gene Rhodes, Facebook comment

From its origins, Anabaptism has combined nonviolence with public moral witness, often in direct confrontation with state injustice. Early Anabaptists publicly rejected state churches, oath-taking, military service and coercive authority, actions that were inherently confrontational and led to mass imprisonment, exile and execution. Martyrdom was itself a form of public resistance. Later Mennonite history reflects the same pattern: public opposition to slavery, conscientious objection during both World Wars, sanctuary movements for refugees and civil rights activism. Public protest against harm to immigrants fits squarely within a long Anabaptist tradition of faithful, visible dissent.

Josef Voth, Facebook comment

I agree we are to be peacemakers, but your articles reflect only one side. We are also to be law-abiding citizens, as Jesus was. As his church, we should not be the leaders of helping people break the laws regarding illegal entry into our country. Reporting that people are murdered by Immigration and Customs Enforcement is not showing love and compassion for everyone, and that includes ICE. Perhaps, as peacemakers, we should be lobbying Congress to change the law instead of condemning as murderers those who are enforcing it. Peacemaking is complicated and difficult. But this is not a one-sided issue. I would love to see any article affirming that concept. Are there any peacemakers showing compassion for the people of ICE? Are they taking hot coffee to them and showing the love of Jesus to them? Even if you consider them the enemy, Jesus said we are to love our enemies. Jesus loves everyone enough to die for them, and that includes the people of ICE. Would you even print an article that says that? Peacemakers are for everyone whom Jesus loves.

MaryAnn Lee, Williamsburg, Va.