The New Sanctuary Coalition is saddened by the loss of one of our lead organizers, the Rev. Dr. Robert “Bob” Foltz-Morrison, whose absence leaves a hole in our hearts and our community.

The former Executive Presbyter of the New York City Presbytery, Robert lived a life dedicated to creating strong interfaith alliances, protecting and serving others, and fighting injustice.

He joined the New Sanctuary Coalition many years ago during the first Trump administration, and when the second one began in early 2025, he became a core organizer, key to replenishing our volunteer base and faith leadership alliances. Even amid the latest “Mega Master Calendar” escalations by the racist deportation and detention regime, Robert was organizing faith leaders across traditions and denominations, putting them in a position to change the system.

Robert was a regular participant and coordinator for our Court Accompaniment and Witnessing program, joining our teams in immigration courthouses on at least a weekly basis. While in treatment for cancer, he stood by Friends and fellow volunteers in a hostile environment, deescalating agents and holding them accountable. He provided essential practical support and pastoral care to people going through trauma.

He would tell fellow New Sanctuary members that he would be at the courts until he couldn’t anymore. He meant it. He gave all he could to fight a racist and economically unjust system with grace and dignity right up until the end of his life.

Robert did everything with compassion, understanding, encouragement, intelligence, and empathy. May his memory encourage all of us to do the same. He will be sorely missed. Our prayers are with his family.

We are collecting recollections and thoughts about Robert here. Letters can be mailed to: