Catholic bishops in Colorado criticize open border policies while maintaining their commitment to aiding immigrants, highlighting a complex stance on immigration reform.
They’ve seen sense – unlike the Pope.
At a Glance
- Catholic bishops in Colorado advocate for immigration system reforms while assisting immigrants
- Bishop Michael F. Burbidge supports Trump’s immigration enforcement, aligning it with Catholic teachings
- The Church emphasizes balancing migrant dignity with the rule of law for the common good
- Catholic organizations in Colorado actively support thousands of immigrants through various programs
- Bishops express concerns over open border policies while remaining committed to aiding immigrants
Bishops Call for Balanced Immigration Reform
The Catholic Bishops of Colorado have taken a stand on immigration reform, advocating for changes to the current system while reaffirming their commitment to assisting immigrants. This approach reflects a nuanced perspective on the complex issue of immigration, balancing the Church’s teachings on welcoming strangers with concerns for national security and the rule of law.
“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, the Executive Director of the Colorado Catholic Conference, recently said.
Despite their criticism of open border policies, the Catholic Church in Colorado continues to provide substantial support to immigrant communities. The three dioceses in the state assist thousands of immigrants through various programs, including the Archdiocese of Denver’s San Juan Diego ministry.
These efforts demonstrate the Church’s commitment to practical assistance and integration of immigrant families into the community, even as it advocates for policy reforms.
Bishop Michael F. Burbidge of the Diocese of Arlington has also expressed support for President Trump’s immigration enforcement, arguing that it aligns with Catholic teachings.
“As principles of Catholic social teaching, human dignity and the common good must not be brought into conflict,” Burbidge stated.
In response to ongoing debates about the Church’s stance on immigration, Bishop Burbidge has sought to clarify the Catholic position in general, too. He emphasized that while the Church advocates for compassion towards immigrants, it does not support an open border policy.
“As the Catechism of the Catholic Church emphasizes, Catholic teaching does not support an open border policy, but rather emphasizes a common sense approach where the duty to care for the stranger is practiced in harmony with the duty to care for the nation,” Burbidge explained.
As the debate over immigration policy continues, Catholic leaders are calling on political figures to consider the common good through the lens of faith.
Is Joe Biden hearing this?