Leaders of the U.S. Catholic Church gathered in Baltimore this week to address urgent concerns over immigration policy and its human toll. In a rare move, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops issued a Special Pastoral Message calling for compassion, reform, and respect for the dignity of all who seek a new life here.
Historic Vote at Fall Plenary Assembly
During their Fall Plenary Assembly, the USCCB invoked a “Special Message” for the first time in twelve years—the last occasion being in 2013 in response to the federal contraceptive mandate. Under conference rules, such a statement requires a two-thirds majority among those present and voting. In an overwhelming show of support, the bishops approved the message with 216 votes in favor, 5 against, and 3 abstentions, earning sustained applause across the assembly floor.
Key Excerpts from the Special Pastoral Message
“As pastors, we the bishops of the United States are bound to our people by ties of communion and compassion in Our Lord Jesus Christ. We are disturbed when we see among our people a climate of fear and anxiety around questions of profiling and immigration enforcement. We are saddened by the state of contemporary debate and the vilification of immigrants. We are concerned about the conditions in detention centers and the lack of access to pastoral care. We lament that some immigrants in the United States have arbitrarily lost their legal status. We are troubled by threats against the sanctity of houses of worship and the special nature of hospitals and schools. We are grieved when we meet parents who fear being detained when taking their children to school and when we try to console family members who have already been separated from their loved ones.”
Despite these challenges, the bishops highlighted the countless contributions of immigrants to the nation’s history and economy. They affirmed their love for the country and urged collaborative efforts to protect both human dignity and national security.
Catholic teaching exhorts nations to recognize the fundamental dignity of all persons, including immigrants. We bishops advocate for a meaningful reform of our nation’s immigration laws and procedures. Human dignity and national security are not in conflict. Both are possible if people of good will work together.
The statement acknowledged the legitimate right of nations to regulate their borders, while stressing that safe and legal pathways help prevent trafficking and exploitation of vulnerable populations.
Drawing on Scripture, the bishops reminded the faithful that every individual bears the image of God (Genesis 1:27) and invoked examples such as the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30–37) to illustrate the call to compassionate action. They urged support for the widowed, orphaned, poor, and stranger, in keeping with the command to love one another as Christ loved us (John 13:34).
To those living in fear of detention or family separation, the bishops offered solidarity: “You are not alone!” They also expressed gratitude that clergy, religious, and laypeople already accompany and assist immigrants in meeting essential needs, and encouraged expanded outreach across the country.
While opposing indiscriminate mass deportations and dehumanizing rhetoric, the bishops pledged continued dialogue with public officials to pursue comprehensive immigration reform that balances order with mercy.
As disciples of the Lord, we remain men and women of hope, and hope does not disappoint! (cf. Romans 5:5)
May the mantle of Our Lady of Guadalupe enfold us all in her maternal and loving care and draw us ever closer to the heart of Christ.