In a rare public statement, the national Catholic bishops organization has delivered a strong condemnation of President Donald Trump's immigration policies.
Church leaders voiced being troubled by risks to the sanctity of churches and the unique character of medical facilities and educational institutions.
Nations must maintain border control while developing equitable, systematic immigration processes that serve public welfare.
Through their statement, the bishops characterized what they labeled "a environment of apprehension around questions of discrimination" and border control measures.
They expressed being disheartened by the present discourse and demonization of migrants, while resisting what they referred to as "the blanket expulsion of people."
The bishops also voiced serious worries about:
The White House has implemented an aggressive immigration agenda since assuming power, including rescinding policies that curtailed immigration detentions near sensitive locations such as religious institutions, medical facilities and educational centers.
The statement mirrors equivalent concerns made by the Catholic pontiff, who has called for "serious consideration about the way foreign nationals are being treated in the US under present leadership."
This marks the initial special message of its kind in 12 years, highlighting the significance of the bishops' concerns about present border measures.
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