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Former Undocumented Immigrant Named First Salvadoran Bishop, Pushes Immigration Reform

5/10/2026

Summary

Story summary

Vatican appointed former undocumented Salvadoran immigrant Evelio Menjivar-Ayala as the first Salvadoran-born bishop of Wheeling-Charleston, West Virginia.
He will be installed this summer to lead the diocese that covers the entire state.
Menjivar-Ayala said he will keep advocating for humane immigration policies, citing Pope Leo’s call for compassion.
He warned that 55 % of Americans favor deporting all undocumented immigrants, attributing the sentiment to misinformation and President Donald Trump’s enforcement tactics.

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Story summary

Vatican appointed former undocumented Salvadoran immigrant Evelio Menjivar-Ayala as the first Salvadoran-born bishop of Wheeling-Charleston, West Virginia.
He will be installed this summer to lead the diocese that covers the entire state.
Menjivar-Ayala said he will keep advocating for humane immigration policies, citing Pope Leo’s call for compassion.
He warned that 55 % of Americans favor deporting all undocumented immigrants, attributing the sentiment to misinformation and President Donald Trump’s enforcement tactics.