Bishops Raise Urgent Concerns on Immigration
In a rare move, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) delivered a Special Message during their Fall Plenary Assembly in Baltimore. This session marked only the second time in over a decade that the bishops have adopted such a message, previously last seen in 2013 reacting to the government’s contraceptive directive.
According to USCCB guidelines, a “Special Message” can only be issued at the conference’s plenary gatherings. It requires two-thirds of the voting members’ approval to demonstrate the collective stance of the bishops. During this assembly, with 216 votes in favor, five against, and three abstentions, the bishops articulated their deep concerns about the current climate impacting immigrants in the United States.
The bishops expressed their discomfort with the existing environment of fear and anxiety surrounding immigration enforcement and profiling. They lamented the “vilification of immigrants” and were troubled by the conditions in detention centers and the barriers to obtaining pastoral care. Calls were made for the dignity and sanctity of places like hospitals, schools, and houses of worship to be respected. There was an emotional highlight on the plight of parents who fear deportation while simply taking their children to school.
The bishops underscored their commitment to defending “God-given human dignity,” asserting that acknowledging immigrant contributions is vital for national welfare. They called upon Catholic teachings, emphasizing the necessity of respecting the innate dignity of every person, including immigrants, and urged for comprehensive reform of U.S. immigration laws. They believe both human dignity and national security can coexist through collaborative efforts among benevolent individuals.
Recognizing the sovereign right of nations to manage their borders, the bishops urged for an immigration system that supports the common good. They highlighted the security risks immigrants face, including trafficking, when such systems fail, and championed the establishment of safe and legal migration channels.
The bishops’ message drew from Sacred Scripture to underpin their stance, reminding the faithful of the divine priority for aiding the vulnerable, “the widow, the orphan, the poor, and the stranger” (Zechariah 7:10). These teachings propel the Catholic Church’s mission in supporting immigrants as an expression of love, as guided by John 13:34.
In a direct message to immigrants, the bishops stated, “You are not alone!” and emphasized the shared suffering of the faithful, echoing 1 Corinthians 12:26.
Acknowledging the efforts of many clergy, religious members, and laypersons in assisting immigrants, the bishops encouraged the expansion of these initiatives. They voiced opposition against “indiscriminate mass deportation” and violent rhetoric while advocating for continued dialogue with government officials to push for substantial immigration reform.
Staying hopeful as followers of Christ, they remain men and women of hope,
“and hope does not disappoint!” (cf. Romans 5:5).
Invoking Our Lady of Guadalupe’s care, they prayed for her to unite all under her protective grace.
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