The White House has dismissed a request from Florida’s Catholic bishops for a pause in immigration enforcement during the Christmas holidays. The appeal, made by Miami Archbishop Thomas Wenski and supported by seven members of the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops, sought to temporarily halt operations to provide relief to immigrant families during this festive period.
Archbishop Wenski stated that the request was made in light of ongoing immigration enforcement activities, which he believes have created a climate of fear among undocumented migrants and their families. He emphasized that the current approach has led to the apprehension of many individuals who are not criminals but are simply seeking work. In his words, “The border has been secured. The initial work of identifying and removing dangerous criminals has been accomplished to a great degree.”
Despite the bishops’ appeal, the White House affirmed that enforcement activities would proceed as usual. White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson highlighted that President Trump was elected on a platform promising to deport criminal illegal aliens and that he intends to fulfill that commitment.
The archbishop pointed to the considerable number of deportations that have occurred this year, with over 500,000 individuals deported and nearly 2 million more having voluntarily self-deported. He expressed concern that aggressive enforcement not only affects irregular migrants but also creates distress among their legally present family members and neighbors.
Church Leaders Advocate for Humane Treatment of Immigrants
Wenski has been a vocal advocate for the humane treatment of immigrants, often addressing the contributions they make to the U.S. economy. “If you ask people in agriculture, in the service industry, in health care, and construction, they’ll tell you that some of their best workers are immigrants,” he noted.
In past discussions at events such as a panel at Georgetown University, he criticized the administration’s hardline stance on immigration, which he argues has resulted in family separations and widespread fear within communities. He mentioned that the current enforcement strategies also inadvertently affect individuals with legal status.
The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has adopted a “special message” condemning the mass deportation policies and the negative impact of immigration raids. This message, which received support from Pope Leo XIV, emphasizes the need for compassion and dignity in dealing with all individuals, regardless of their immigration status.
Wenski’s efforts include participation in initiatives like the “Knights on Bikes,” aimed at highlighting the spiritual needs of migrants held in detention centers, including the notorious Alligator Alcatraz in Florida. He recalled the emotional experience of praying outside the facility before being allowed to conduct a Mass within its walls.
Calls for Compassion in Immigration Policies
In a broader context, Pope Leo XIV has encouraged local bishops to address social justice issues and has criticized inhumane treatment of immigrants. He has previously stated that supporters of such treatment may not fully embody pro-life values.
The ongoing debate around immigration enforcement during the holiday season underscores a significant division between government policy and religious leaders advocating for a more compassionate approach. As the holiday season approaches, the call for a pause in operations highlights the pressing need for dialogue around immigration policies that prioritize human dignity and family unity.
