Through a rare official declaration, America's Catholic bishop leadership has delivered a sharp criticism of President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown.
Religious authorities stated being disturbed by potential violations of the special status of religious sites and the protected status of medical facilities and educational institutions.
We recognize that nations have a responsibility to regulate their borders and establish a just and orderly immigration system for the sake of the common good.
Through their statement, the church leaders characterized what they termed "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of profiling" and immigration enforcement.
They revealed being disappointed by the current discussion and vilification of immigrants, while opposing what they called "the blanket expulsion of people."
Church authorities also expressed significant concerns about:
The Trump administration has advanced an tough immigration approach since assuming power, including revoking policies that restricted immigration apprehensions near sensitive locations such as churches, hospitals and schools.
The message mirrors equivalent concerns made by the Vatican leader, who has advocated for "thorough contemplation about the way immigrants are being handled in the US under the current administration."
This constitutes the initial formal statement of its nature in 12 years, underscoring the significance of the bishops' concerns about current immigration policies.