The first Spanish mass on Sunday at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Logan Heights begins just after sunrise in the summer.
Most of the parishioners are immigrants. Church leaders have developed a new security protocol prompted by the increase in ICE actions across California. The most obvious change is that the sanctuary’s front doors are closed and secured during every mass.
There is also much more of a security patrol presence on the church property.
In recent weeks, a number of videos have been released on social media showing violent confrontations with federal agents arresting and detaining people. Often it happens without probable cause and without due process for those taken into custody.
“I believe it’s unconscionable that such a thing should happen. it hasn’t happened (here at our church yet) thanks be to God, and I hope it never does,” said Reverend Scott Santarosa, the church’s lead pastor.
“We want people to feel safe and encourage them to keep coming,” he said.
Reverend Scott Santarosa (far right) spoke with parishioners after a Sunday mass, July 13, 2025.
On Friday, a federal judge in Los Angeles issued a temporary restraining order to stop the federal government from aggressive enforcement actions violating constitutional protections.
The ruling could have major implications for the Trump administration’s mass deportation plans. “I would say if you’re here illegally that you would take the option to self deport,” Shawn Gibson told NBC 7. He is a special agent in charge of Homeland Security Investigations in San Diego.