CV NEWS FEED // Bishops from dioceses in Louisiana stated in a pastoral letter Jan. 17 that they will advocate for immigrants’ “just treatment and dignity within the framework of the law,” and they called for Louisiana politicians to do the same.
The bishops, headed by Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond of New Orleans, added that they are motivated to advocate for immigrants and stand in solidarity with them because of the “inherent dignity” that each person possesses.
While sympathizing with the situation of migrants, the bishops additionally called for a reform of the immigration system, noting that it is “overly complex and unjust, often keeping family members apart.”
“Catholic social teaching identifies principles that should be included in any reform. It is necessary that the root causes of forced migration should be addressed,” the bishops later continued. “Any law enforcement efforts should be targeted, proportional, and humane, and should guarantee humanitarian protection and due process. Long-time residents should have an earned pathway to citizenship.”
The bishops also stated that family unity should be a key priority in the reform of the immigration system. Enforcement policies should be in place to protect citizens from gang activity and end drug and human trafficking.
Citing the Gospel of Matthew, the bishops reminded readers that the Holy Family was once a migrant family fleeing to Egypt for safety.
“Sacred Scripture provides us with countless examples of God’s love for the stranger and the sojourner,” the bishops wrote. “These words remind us that we are all pilgrims of hope on this earth.”
