🔗 Share this article American Roman Catholic Bishops Criticize White House Immigration Policies In a rare formal message, America's Catholic bishop leadership has issued a sharp criticism of the White House's immigration policies. Formal Statement Reveals Serious Worry Church leaders expressed being disturbed by threats against the sacred nature of churches and the unique character of hospitals and schools. Nations must maintain border control while developing equitable, systematic immigration processes that serve public welfare. Environment of Apprehension Through their statement, the bishops characterized what they called "a environment of apprehension around questions of discrimination" and immigration enforcement. They expressed being saddened by the ongoing debate and demonization of migrants, while opposing what they described as "the blanket expulsion of people." Further Issues The bishops also raised serious worries about: Situations in border holding facilities Unjustified cancellation of authorized standing for certain immigrants Insufficiency in meaningful immigration reform Administrative Shifts Federal authorities has implemented an stringent border policy since taking office, including rescinding policies that limited immigration apprehensions near sensitive locations such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions. International Context The message parallels equivalent concerns made by Pope Leo, who has urged "thorough contemplation about the way immigrants are being treated in the US under the current administration." Wider Consequences This constitutes the initial special message of its type in more than ten years, highlighting the significance of the bishops' concerns about present border measures.