Archbishop Charles Thompson’s statement on Immigrants and Refugees

Note: The Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Indiana, share the following statement from Archbishop Charles Thompson of the Archdiocese of Indianapolis.

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Catholic teaching has long recognized the right and responsibility of each sovereign nation to maintain proper border security to protect its citizens while simultaneously remaining clear on the respect owed to the dignity of every person as created in the image of God. Consequent to this dignity is the right of each person to have proper access to food, water, healthcare, employment, justice, and freedom from oppression. As Pope Francis exhorts us, we must be especially attentive to the needs of the poor and vulnerable, which includes immigrants and refugees. Christians are keenly aware that the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph were refugees for a time, traveling to another country to escape violence and death as imposed by the unjust decree of King Herod.

As pastors, we hear the concerns of our brothers and sisters, heightened by recent threats of aggressive immigration enforcement actions, who flee to escape various forms of injustice, such as violence, war, and persecution. These migrants and refugees are often beloved members of our communities, parishes, and schools who inspire by their faithful witness and devotion to their faith, commitment to their families and fruitful participation in the civic life of their communities. Using the foundational principles of the Church’s social and moral teaching, we will continue to advocate for the just and dignified treatment of migrants as well as for national immigration reform that includes targeted, proportionate, and humane enforcement, and reasonable pathways to citizenship for long-time residents with an emphasis on family unity. We are committed to accompanying those in need through prayer, advocacy, ongoing formation and education, legal remedies, and all proper means of support.

In Indiana, we continue to support meaningful reforms that affirm the desire of so many migrants who wish to contribute fruitfully to society. It is our hope that reasonable policies can uplift those who feel trapped by the challenges of navigating our country’s immigration system. Serious offenders with a history of harming U.S. citizens and immigrants, however, should not find protection under these reforms.

I invite all in our Catholic communities to join me in supporting our migrant brothers and sisters as we advocate for meaningful immigration reform. As Catholics and Americans, we have a moral obligation to discern the difference between the vulnerable and those who hide among the vulnerable seeking to exploit them. May we never tire of being Christ-centered in our unity as People of God, Pilgrims of Hope, and Missionary Disciples of Jesus Christ, Savior of the World.

Most Reverend Charles C. Thompson
Archbishop of Indianapolis