Immigration: The Human Cost
The current state of immigration enforcement has been on the hearts and minds of many in our parish, including myself. The situation is complex and deeply affects families and communities across our nation. I encourage prayer for everyone involved—immigrants, refugees, law enforcement officers, politicians, and citizens alike. In these challenging times, let us remember that as disciples of Jesus, we are called to love everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances.
The following is an excerpt from an opinion article written by Bishop Hebda that appeared in the Wall Street Journal on January 20. I have edited the article to fit in the bulletin. For the complete version, please use the following link: https://www.archspm.org/archbishop-hebda-calls-for-immigration-reform-in-wall-street-journal-commentary/
By Bernard A. Hebda, Archbishop of St Paul and Minneapolis
As the leader of the Catholic community, I see the human cost on all sides.
We can no longer put off the hard work of immigration reform. Inaction has made the debate louder, angrier and less humane. A difficult policy discussion has hardened into a battleground.
The consistent call of Catholic bishops around the U.S. (is) for true statesmen to step forward, set aside partisan calculations and enact meaningful federal immigration reform.
It’s wrong to blame undocumented immigrants, many came here seeking safety, work or family reunification. We must stand with citizens and undocumented immigrants together as human beings created in God’s image.
Catholic tradition insists on the truth, Nations have the right and duty to secure their borders and enforce their laws. Immigrants are human beings with natural rights that must be respected. Authentic justice requires both the rule of law and mercy.
It is right to respect Immigration and Customs Enforcement when they are fulfilling their mission to identify and detain serious criminals. The removal of dangerous people serves the common good. Protecting the innocent is a moral obligation.
Yet the current environment is untenable. Law-abiding immigrants are living in fear that any interaction with authorities could separate parents from children or unravel years of honest work.
What’s required is a comprehensive, long-term solution that reflects reality rather than ideology. That solution must include granting lawful status for those who contributed to their communities and lived here for years. A workable solution would also have to acknowledge that some people will be deported. Mercy doesn’t negate consequences, and compassion doesn’t mean wide-open borders.
I see the human cost on all sides. I minister to immigrant parishioners who are fearful regardless of their legal status. I also serve those who feel abandoned by leaders who have seemed more interested in political posturing than in protecting their communities. The church can’t choose one flock over another. Neither should the nation.
Immigration reform isn’t about erasing borders or demonizing newcomers. It’s about restoring moral order, strengthening families and promoting the common good. That work demands courage, humility, and a willingness to compromise—virtues that define proper statesmanship.
Archbishop Hebda leads the Catholic Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis.
God bless you all. Deacon Michael Braun