In response to the increasing number of immigration raids in the Los Angeles area, Bishop Alberto Rojas of the Diocese of San Bernardino has made the compassionate decision to exempt individuals with a genuine fear of immigration enforcement from attending Mass. This pastoral adjustment, announced in a statement released by the diocese, is intended to provide a measure of safety and reassurance for those whose lives have been disrupted by these actions.
Rojas, who has long been a prominent figure in the local Catholic community, has emphasized that the decision is rooted in the church’s commitment to supporting the vulnerable and ensuring that all members feel spiritually and emotionally secure. The bishop’s leadership at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in Chino Hills, Calif., has been recognized for its efforts in addressing the challenges faced by immigrant communities.
This move comes as local authorities continue to implement immigration enforcement measures, raising concerns among religious leaders and community members about the impact on faith practices and the well-being of congregants. The diocese has also encouraged those affected to seek further pastoral support and guidance in navigating the complex circumstances they face.