Through a rare official declaration, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has delivered a firm denunciation of the White House's immigration crackdown.
Church leaders voiced being troubled by risks to the sacred nature of houses of worship 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.
Within their declaration, the religious figures characterized what they labeled "a environment of apprehension around questions of targeting" and border control measures.
They revealed being disappointed by the ongoing debate and vilification of migrants, while opposing what they called "the blanket expulsion of people."
Religious leaders also expressed major apprehensions about:
Federal authorities has advanced an tough immigration approach since taking office, including revoking policies that curtailed immigration arrests near protected areas such as churches, hospitals and schools.
The declaration echoes similar critiques made by Pope Leo, who has advocated for "serious consideration about the way migrants are being treated in the US under the current administration."
This represents the premier formal statement of its kind in 12 years, underscoring the seriousness of the church leaders' worries about present border measures.
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