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Through a uncommon official declaration, the national Catholic bishops organization has delivered a firm denunciation of the White House's immigration policies.

Special Message Reveals Significant Apprehension

Church leaders expressed being concerned by potential violations of the special status of houses of worship and the protected status of hospitals and schools.

We recognize that nations have a responsibility to regulate their borders and establish a just and orderly immigration system for the sake of the common good.

Environment of Apprehension

In their message, the religious figures portrayed what they termed "a environment of apprehension around questions of targeting" and border control measures.

They revealed being saddened by the ongoing debate and demonization of migrants, while opposing what they referred to as "the blanket expulsion of people."

Additional Concerns

The bishops also expressed serious worries about:

• Conditions in migrant detention facilities
• Unjustified cancellation of legal status for some migrants
• Absence of substantial border policy changes

Policy Changes

Federal authorities has advanced an stringent border policy since beginning the term, including eliminating policies that curtailed immigration arrests near designated sites such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.

International Context

The declaration echoes equivalent concerns made by the Vatican leader, who has advocated for "serious consideration about the way immigrants are being handled in the US under the current administration."

Wider Consequences

This marks the initial official declaration of its nature in 12 years, emphasizing the significance of the religious authorities' apprehensions about current immigration policies.