Bishops Blast ‘Indiscriminate’ Mass Deportations in US. Catholic leaders in America issue a rare joint statement
A truck driver is detained as US Border Patrol agents conduct an immigration operation at a truck stop Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Hampshire, Ill. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley)
US Catholic bishops issued a rare collective rebuke of President Trump’s immigration crackdown on Wednesday, according to the Washington Post. In a 216–5 vote at their annual gathering, the bishops approved a “special pastoral message” stating their opposition to “indiscriminate mass deportation” and urging an end to “dehumanizing rhetoric and violence—whether aimed at immigrants or law enforcement.” Such pastoral messages are uncommon; the last one was released 12 years ago, per Axios.
The statement calls for “meaningful immigration reform” and underscores the daily hardships facing many migrants, including sudden loss of legal status, harsh detention conditions, and a climate of constant fear. Chicago Archbishop Blase Cupich, whose city has seen an expanded federal enforcement presence, pushed for the message to clearly denounce mass deportations. The bishops also launched a new initiative, “You Are Not Alone,” encouraging Catholics nationwide to offer direct support and solidarity to immigrant communities.
White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson responded by pointing to President Trump’s long-standing pledge to take a hard line on illegal immigration, saying, “He is keeping his promise to the American people.” The administration has deported around 400,000 people this year, with another 60,000 detained—actions that have occasionally swept up legal residents. The bishops’ statement lands amid widening divisions among American Catholics; while most Catholics overall supported the president, 58% of Hispanic Catholics backed Kamala Harris.
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