Via a uncommon public statement, the national Catholic bishops organization has issued a strong condemnation of the White House's border enforcement measures.
The bishops stated being disturbed by potential violations of the special status of churches 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.
Within their declaration, the bishops described what they called "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of discrimination" and immigration enforcement.
They revealed being saddened by the current discussion and negative portrayal of immigrants, while resisting what they described as "the indiscriminate mass deportation of people."
Church authorities also raised serious worries about:
The Trump administration has implemented an tough immigration approach since assuming power, including eliminating policies that curtailed immigration detentions near protected areas such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.
The declaration parallels comparable criticisms made by the Vatican leader, who has advocated for "thorough contemplation about the way immigrants are being treated in the US under the current administration."
This marks the initial special message of its kind in more than ten years, emphasizing the seriousness of the bishops' concerns about existing enforcement approaches.
Lena de Vries is a Dutch food writer and recipe developer who loves blending traditional flavors with modern twists.