
A bishop urges a faith-based reevaluation of open border policies, hinting at a harmonious integration of moral values and civic duties.
At a Glance
- The Catholic Bishops of Colorado advocate immigration reforms, maintaining support for immigrants.
- Catholic teaching urges welcoming immigrants, recognizing their dignity while preserving community safety.
- Bishop Burbidge supports an immigration policy aligning law enforcement with Catholic teachings.
- Uncertainty surrounds future policies on religious places as safe spaces.
Faith-Based Advocacy and Immigration Reform
The Catholic Bishops of Colorado call for reforms in the immigration system – and they’re not talking about the kind of open border reforms the Pope wants.
Their advocacy comes with a pledge to continue supporting immigrants through various initiatives, emphasizing the Catholic identity’s alignment with welcoming policies.
“The call to welcome the stranger is woven into the fabric of our faith and standing with immigrants. Our first concern is that they know and love Jesus Christ, and we recognize the dignity of their humanity, but we also recognize the responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of our communities,” Brittany Vessely of the Colorado Catholic Church said.
The bishops have supported thousands of immigrants through initiatives like the San Juan Diego Ministry in Denver, which offers family support and leadership training. In 2024, the Catholic Charities’ collaboration with the City of Denver to open the Mullen Home illustrated the Church’s ongoing commitment.
“This is through education, family support, leadership formation and Catholic Charities even partnered in 2024 with the City of Denver to open the Mullen home for hundreds of migrant families,” Vessely noted.
— P. A. Ritzer (@PARitzer) January 29, 2025
Balancing Law Enforcement and Human Dignity
Bishop Michael F. Burbidge from the Diocese of Arlington aligned himself with the call for a balanced immigration policy, stressing the importance of upholding the law while recognizing the human dignity inherent in every individual.
“As the United States government revises its immigration policies, and after prayerful discernment and consultation, I offer pastoral encouragement to President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, Congressional leaders, elected officials, and all Catholics and people of goodwill to consider the common good of our country with the light of faith,” Bishop Burbidge said.
“As principles of Catholic social teaching, human dignity and the common good must not be brought into conflict,” Burbidge added.
Why can’t Democrats understand this very simple concept? We can support border security while having compassion for people, too.