American Roman Catholic Church Leaders Condemn White House Border Policies

Through a infrequent public statement, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has issued a sharp criticism of the White House's immigration policies.

Special Message Reveals Significant Apprehension

The bishops expressed being disturbed by potential violations of the sacred nature of houses of worship and the protected status of hospitals and schools.

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.

Climate of Fear

Within their declaration, the church leaders described what they called "a environment of apprehension around questions of targeting" and border control measures.

They stated being saddened by the current discussion and negative portrayal of foreign nationals, while resisting what they referred to as "the blanket expulsion of people."

Further Issues

Church authorities also raised serious worries about:

• Situations in border holding facilities
• Random revocation of authorized standing for various foreign nationals
• Insufficiency in substantial border policy changes

Policy Changes

Federal authorities has pursued an aggressive immigration agenda since assuming power, including eliminating policies that curtailed immigration detentions near protected areas such as churches, hospitals and schools.

Global Perspective

The declaration mirrors equivalent concerns made by the Vatican leader, who has urged "deep reflection about the way immigrants are being treated in the US under present leadership."

Wider Consequences

This represents the initial official declaration of its kind in over a decade, highlighting the gravity of the religious authorities' apprehensions about current immigration policies.