Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, has publicly endorsed the U.S. Catholic bishops’ condemnation of the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement actions, urging Americans to treat migrants with dignity and respect. The bishops, in a statement released after their general assembly in Baltimore, criticized the mass deportation agenda and the vilification of migrants, highlighting the fear and anxiety immigration raids have caused in communities. They also expressed concern over the conditions in detention centers and the lack of access to pastoral care for migrants.
The pope, when asked about the bishops’ ‘special message,’ affirmed that he appreciated their stance and encouraged all people of goodwill to listen to migrants and treat them humanely. He emphasized that there are legal systems in place to handle immigration issues, urging respect for the rule of law while advocating for humane treatment. The bishops’ statement marks a significant moment as it is the first single-issue statement they have drafted since 2013.
Catholic leaders have been critical of Trump’s mass deportation plan, with fear of immigration raids leading to a decline in Mass attendance at some parishes. The federal government reversed a Biden administration directive that had prohibited immigration agents from conducting raids at sensitive areas such as churches, schools, and hospitals, highlighting the ongoing tensions in immigration policy.
Leo acknowledged the challenges with the U.S. migration system but emphasized that no one has argued for open borders. He also highlighted the negative impact of the raids, noting that they have been ‘extremely disrespectful’ and have led to instances of violence. The pope urged Americans to support the bishops’ call for humane treatment of migrants, even if they are in the United States illegally.
The broader context of the bishops’ criticism includes a call for greater compassion and a more humane approach to migration policy. The pope’s support underscores the significant role of the Catholic Church in shaping public discourse on immigration, particularly in its condemnation of policies that have been seen as inhumane and disrespectful to migrants.