U.S. Bishops Unite Against Trump Administration's Immigration Policies

On November 12, 2025, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) issued a significant statement opposing the Trump administration's aggressive deportation policies. This rare "special pastoral message on immigration," passed with overwhelming support—216 votes in favor, five against, and three abstentions—was articulated during the bishops' annual fall plenary assembly in Baltimore. While the statement did not explicitly name President Donald Trump, it clearly rebuked the administration's tactics, framing the immigration crisis in moral terms.

NOTUS

The bishops expressed deep concern over the "climate of fear and anxiety" surrounding immigration enforcement, highlighting the detrimental effects on immigrant communities. They lamented the conditions in detention centers, the loss of legal status for some immigrants, and threats to the sanctity of places of worship and schools. The bishops emphasized their commitment to "defend God-given human dignity" and called for an end to "indiscriminate mass deportation of people."

America’s bishops express opposition to indiscriminate mass deportations

The bishops' statement marks a pivotal moment in their collective response to the ongoing immigration crisis, which has intensified under the Trump administration. This is the first special message issued by the USCCB since 2013, when they opposed the contraceptive coverage mandate under the Affordable Care Act. The urgency of the current situation has prompted bishops across the country to advocate for immigrants, reflecting a growing consensus within the conference.

NOTUS

Archbishop Richard Henning of Boston, who played a key role in drafting the statement, noted that the bishops are responding to the suffering they witness in their communities. He stated, "We are pastors, we are on the ground and we are hearing from our people... There’s a kind of chaos and arbitrariness... that is causing a lot of distress."

The Pillar

The bishops' message articulated a balance between the right to migrate and the responsibility of nations to regulate their borders. They called for "safe and legal pathways" for immigration, asserting that "human dignity and national security are not in conflict." The statement also recognized the contributions of immigrants to society, urging lawmakers to pursue meaningful immigration reform.

America Magazine

Archbishop Paul Coakley, newly elected president of the USCCB, expressed strong support for the statement, emphasizing its balanced approach in protecting immigrant rights while calling for reform. He stated, "I think it’s a strong statement. I think it’s a balanced statement."

The Pillar

Despite the overwhelming support for the statement, some bishops expressed a desire for a stronger message. Bishop Oscar Cantú of San Jose noted, "I was hoping for something stronger," while acknowledging the importance of the statement itself. This sentiment reflects the ongoing tension within the conference regarding how best to address immigration issues.

The Pillar

• “The added phrase was ultimately approved, and is found in the final paragraph of the message: “We oppose the indiscriminate mass deportation of people.” — U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops

America Magazine

• “We are saddened by the state of contemporary debate and the vilification of immigrants.” — U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops

America Magazine

• “There’s a kind of chaos and arbitrariness of the moments on the ground that is causing a lot of distress.” — Archbishop Richard Henning, Boston

The Pillar

• “I think it’s a strong statement. I think it’s a balanced statement. I strongly support it for the good of immigrant brothers and sisters, but also find a balance protecting rights and immigrants, but also securing and calling upon our lawmakers and our administration to offer us a meaningful path that reforms our immigration system.” — Archbishop Paul Coakley, USCCB President

The Pillar

The bishops' statement is expected to influence ongoing discussions about immigration reform in the United States. As the bishops continue to advocate for the dignity of migrants, they will likely engage with lawmakers and public officials to address the pressing challenges faced by immigrant communities. The USCCB's commitment to solidarity with immigrants underscores the church's broader mission to uphold human dignity in the face of systemic injustices.

America’s bishops express opposition to indiscriminate mass deportations