A Pastoral Letter on Immigration from Archbishop McKnight, Bishop Kemme, & Bishop Vincke

To the people of God in Kansas and to all people of good will: Greetings to you in the Peace of Christ!

As Catholic Bishops serving in Kansas, we speak with one voice to affirm the sacred dignity of every human person, especially those fleeing hardship, who now call our state home. (Read more)

To The Catholic Faithful in the Province of Iowa and to All Persons of Good Will:

I. “Wherever you lodge, I will lodge” (Ruth 1:16)

The Catholic Church has always proclaimed the inviolable dignity of the human person, created in the image and likeness of God.[1] Governments do not bestow this dignity, nor does legal status instill it, but it is intrinsic to every human person as a beloved child of the heavenly Father. In every age, the People of God are called to uphold this truth by welcoming the stranger, defending the oppressed, and standing in solidarity with those who are displaced. (Read more)

Calling for a Just and Humane Approach to Migration

The bishops of Texas will continue to work with governmental officials and other people of good will to implement policies that recognize the dignity of every person, prioritize family unity, and address the root causes of forced migration, while respecting the right and responsibility of our country to secure its borders, regulate immigration in an orderly process, maintain the rule of law, and keep its communities safe and peaceful. (English; Spanish; Vietnamese)

Bishop Cantu’s Pastoral Statement on Immigration Reform, Human Dignity, and the Family Unit

For decades Congress has failed to fix the broken immigration system of the United States. It seems that the only bipartisan agreement to be found on immigration is that the system does not work. Even the most recent legislative proposal – a rather restrictive, bipartisan, bill, which was far-reaching and promising – failed for partisan political reasons. The Catholic bishops of the United States have advocated for decades for comprehensive immigration reform. (Read more)

The Catholic Church is pro-life. This means we believe that each human life has dignity, regardless of immigration status.

Human dignity exists because each of us is created in the image and likeness of God. We also affirm that sovereign nations have the right to control and restrict their borders, and law enforcement actions to preserve order and ensure community security are necessary for the common good. On all sides of the immigration issue, there is fear. We must ask God to give us hope. Let us pray that justice and mercy will prevail. (Read more)

Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez Releases Pastoral Message to Immigrant Communities Throughout the Philadelpha Region

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

Recent news reports detailing the arrest of immigrants throughout the country, including the Philadelphia region, have produced a great deal of fear and unleashed a broad range of other emotions. These events have impacted the migrant community in deeply troubling ways. I am witnessing your sorrow with great sadness and concern as are people of goodwill from all walks of life. (Read more)

Bishop Dewane Speaks Out About “Alligator Alcatraz” and Immigration Enforcement

As the new detention center becomes operational at Dade-Collier Airport, or “Alligator Alcatraz,” it seems necessary to take stock of recent developments in immigration enforcement and the need for further improvements to our wider immigration system. (Read more)

Diocese of Phoenix Bishops Pastoral Letter: In Solidarity with the Stranger

Today, as the church of Phoenix, we raise our collective voice and hearts in prayerful solidarity with our immigrant brothers and sisters; especially considering the recent ICE operations that have brought confusion, fear, and heartache to many of our communities. (English; Spanish)

U.S. Bishops’ President Reacts to Passage of One Big Beautiful Bill Act

Reacting to the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, Archbishop Broglio, president of the USCCB, lamented the great harm the bill will cause to many of the most vulnerable in society, making steeper cuts to Medicaid and clean energy tax credits, and adding more to the deficit. (Read more)

Archbishop Thomas Wenski on Immigration Enforcement

The bishops of the United States have long been advocates of reforms to our broken immigration system. Thoughtful observers of the challenges facing our country cannot help but recognize that serious reforms are necessary to preserve safety and the integrity of our borders, as well as to accommodate needs for labor, family stability, and the ability of those at risk of grave harm to migrate. We continue to propose reforms that will enhance our immigration system, respect human dignity, and promote the common good. (Read more)

Bishop Douglas J. Lucia’s Statement on Migration – Diocese of Syracuse

This morning as I celebrated Holy Mass the Psalm response proclaimed: “Kindness and truth shall meet”… I feel compelled in my role as a spiritual leader in our nation to address the impact of some recent pronouncements by our national leaders which appear in the tone and execution to diverge from the teachings of Christ and His Church. (Read more)

Bishop Matanos’ Statement on Migration – Diocese of Rochester

Because a very needed reform of immigration laws has yet to be achieved, persons who have come to this country to build a new life and are contributing to society in many ways have found themselves in uncertainty.” (Read more)

Wisconsin Catholic Bishops’ Pastoral Letter on Migration

In these challenging times, we, the bishops of Wisconsin, want all immigrants to know that we are here to walk with you – and that God Himself is with you. The prophet Isaiah encourages us, “Do not fear: I am with you; do not be anxious: I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my victorious right hand” (Is 41:10). Our Lord is with us always, especially in uncertain and fearful times. (English; Spanish)

Letter from Archbishop Cordileone on immigration

There are many questions being raised and debates taking place on the topic of immigration as the new administration takes action to fulfill its campaign promise to secure the southern border and pursue “mass deportations.” We are feeling the impact of these actions within our own communities. (Read more)

The United States needs a legal immigration process that works

One issue that has almost unanimous agreement is that for decades, our immigration policy has been broken and is in need of reform. Immigration was one of the most significant issues in the presidential election. Candidate Trump promised the mass deportation of undocumented immigrants. (Read more)

Archdiocesan Statement on Immigrants and Refugees

Catholic teaching has long recognized the right and responsibility of each sovereign nation to maintain proper border security to protect its citizens while simultaneously remaining clear on the respect owed to the dignity of every person as created in the image of God. Consequent to this dignity is the right of each person to have proper access to food, water, healthcare, employment, justice, and freedom from oppression. (English; Spanish)

A Pastoral Statement on American Immigration Law and the Catholic Imperative of Holding up Human Dignity and the Common Good

As the United States government revises its immigration policies, and after prayerful discernment and consultation, I offer pastoral encouragement to President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, Congressional leaders, elected officials, and all Catholics and people of goodwill to consider the common good of our country with the light of faith. The Church teaches, as does our Constitution, that a political community exists to protect the family and human dignity. (Read more)

Maryland Bishops Affirm Solidarity with Immigrants, Recommit to Advocacy

Maryland’s Catholic bishops have released a joint statement to express their solidarity with immigrants and recommit to advocating for policies that protect rights and uphold their dignity. The bishops write, “The Church has always been a home for those in search of refuge and peace, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to welcome the stranger and embrace the vulnerable.” (English and Spanish)

A Pastoral Note to Migrants from the Catholic Bishops in Michigan

We, the Roman Catholic Bishops in Michigan, write to offer our continued pastoral and prayerful support for migrant individuals and families who over the course of time have entered the country and today are making a living in this state. Our fraternal closeness to you and other immigrants, refugees, and those seeking humanitarian asylum is rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, where we find “I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me… Whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:35,40). (Read more)

Statement from Bishop William Byrne, Diocese of Springfield

“I am in full support of the statements issued this week by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops regarding the intention of engaging in the enforcement of the new administration’s immigration policy. In issuing these statements, the Catholic Bishops of our country recognize the need for new immigration legislation. We believe this goal is achievable through meaningful dialogue and the legislative process.”

Texas bishops call for just and humane approach to migration

The bishops of Texas will continue to work with governmental officials and other people of good will to implement policies that recognize the dignity of every person, prioritize family unity, and address the root causes of forced migration, while respecting the right and responsibility of our country to secure its borders, regulate immigration in an orderly process, maintain the rule of law, and keep its communities safe and peaceful. (English and Spanish)

The Colorado Bishops’ Statement on Immigration: Welcoming the Stranger, Protecting the Common Good

As Catholic Bishops of Colorado, we approach the issue of immigration with prayerful hearts, seeking to guide our communities in a spirit of charity, justice, mercy, and prudence. The call to welcome the stranger is woven into the fabric of our faith, and in standing with immigrants, it is our first concern that they know the love of Jesus Christ and their dignity as human beings. (Read More)

Bishop Johnston urges compassion amid uncertainty

In these times of uncertainty, I reach out to you with a heart full of compassion and a steadfast commitment to our shared faith. Recent executive orders have raised concerns within our community, particularly regarding their impact on our immigrant families, our schools and our parishes. (English; Spanish)

Statement on Immigration Issues, Archbishop José H. Gomez

Statements and actions from the new administration in Washington have caused fear in our parishes, schools, and communities. That is not good for anybody. I pray that our leaders will proceed with restraint and compassion, with respect for the law, and with respect for the rights and dignity of all concerned. (Read more)

Immigration Statement From Most Reverend John C. Wester, Archbishop of Santa Fe

January 21, 2025

As we usher in a new administration in our country, let us pray for a future grounded in the common good, a nation united in solidarity, and a deep respect for the sanctity of each individual and the dignity of every worker. (Read more)

Remarks of Cardinal Blase Cupich, archbishop of Chicago, regarding immigration at the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City

January 19, 2025

While we wish the new administration success in promoting the common good, the reports being circulated of planned mass deportations targeting the Chicago area are not only profoundly disturbing but also wound us deeply. (Read more)

“Together, Pilgrims of Hope with our Immigrant Community”

January 17, 2025

We write to you with hearts full of compassion and a deep desire to express our solidarity with you during this stressful time. We recognize the immense challenges you face as migrants, and we want to assure you that you are not alone. Compelled by the Gospel of Jesus Christ and recognizing the inherent dignity of each person as a child of God, we stand in firm solidarity with our immigrant brothers and sisters. (Read more)

We Stand in Firm Solidarity with Our Immigrant Brothers and Sisters

“In solidarity with immigrants, Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, president of the USCCB, Bishop Mark J. Seitz, chairman of the USCCB’s Committee on Migration, and Bishop Jaime Soto, chairman of the board for Catholic Legal Immigration Network, Inc., issued a statement of pastoral concern.” (English; Spanish)

Our Lady of Guadalupe is a Powerful Reminder That We Are All Called to Be One in Christ Jesus

The Catholic Church commemorates the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, patroness of the Americas, on December 12. Besides this Marian feast day and devotion to the Blessed Mother carrying special significance for many immigrants in the United States, Our Lady of Guadalupe is also known as patroness of the unborn after appearing to Saint Juan Diego as a pregnant mother. (English; Spanish)

Arizona Catholic Bishops Statement on Migration

“We would like to express our solidarity with the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), numerous ecumenical and faith leaders, and many others, in their recent and continued support for immigrants….” (Read More)

Iowa Catholic Bishops Statement on Migration

To our dear migrant brothers and sisters in Christ:

“We write to you with hearts full of compassion and a deep desire to express our solidarity with you during this stressful time. We recognize the immense challenges you face as migrants, and we want to assure you that you are not alone…” (Read More)

A Thanksgiving Reflection from the Kansas Bishops

As we gather to give thanks this season, the Kansas Catholic bishops offer a heartfelt message of hope, solidarity, and peace. Rooted in Christ’s love, their Thanksgiving reflection speaks directly to the challenges and dignity of our migrant brothers and sisters, reminding us all of our shared identity as children of God. Please take a moment to read this inspiring message and reflect on the blessings of faith, family, and community this Thanksgiving. (English; Spanish)

The Inherent Human Dignity of Immigrants and People Living In Poverty

“As the 2024 election season becomes more intense, rhetoric against our brothers and sisters who have moved into the United States from elsewhere or who are living in poverty is growing increasingly dehumanizing. Thus, we feel compelled to accompany immigrants and the poor in our parishes, schools, neighborhoods, workplaces, and communities…” (Read More)

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ and all people of goodwill,

In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus is asked by a scholar of the law, “And who is my neighbor?” when faced with upholding the greatest commandment. Jesus replied with the parable of the Good Samaritan. Today, our nation is divided by partisanship and ideology, which blind us to the image of God in our neighbor, especially the unborn, the poor, and the stranger. (Read More)

Nebraska’s Catholic Bishops Issue Letter to Migrants Expressing Compassion, Solidarity, and Support

On the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, the Catholic bishops of Nebraska shared a letter (in English and in Spanish) with migrants across the state, expressing the bishops’ compassion, solidarity, and support for immigrants in Nebraska, including those concerned about the possibility of mass deportations. 

Am I not here, I who am your mother?

The Lord hears the cry of the poor” (Psalm 34:7), and we, the Catholic bishops of California, as shepherds of the flock of Christ, have seen and heard the growing distress among you, our migrant brothers and sisters. We want to assure you that we, and our mother, the Church, stand with you in these days of anxiety. You are not alone. (English; Spanish; Korean; Vietnamese; Chinese)

New Mexico Bishops Call for Human Treatment of Immigrants and Immigration Reform

Immigration has become a top issue of concern for many Americans, including Catholics, engendering strong emotions on both sides of the immigration debate. Despite the nation’s long, and primarily positive, experience with newcomers, in which we have welcomed people to our shores for generations, immigration remains a complicated and challenging issue for the country. (English)

Statement of the Bishops of the Province of Louisville on the Feast of the Holy Family

As we reflect upon the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph and recall during this time their flight into a foreign land as migrants, the ongoing heightened discussion surrounding our migrant community has engendered fear and uncertainty. It is also a challenging time for the whole Catholic Church in the United States which has long included migrants from various parts of the world. (English)

LETTER FROM BISHOP EDWARD SCHARFENBERGER REGARDING IMMIGRATION POLICY CHANGES

May I take this opportunity to address concerns shared over the change of administration in Washington, D.C., particularly regarding immigration. As the Diocese develops guidelines for parishes to follow, I want to encourage all to remain firm in our Catholic faith, sharing the love of Christ by building hope, rather than perpetuating fear. (Read more)