Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
Immigration is not merely a matter of public policy or law enforcement; it touches the very heart of our faith. Every person is created in the image of God and deserves dignity, compassion, and care. Jesus Himself knew the experience of being a refugee, and He commands us to welcome the stranger, for in doing so we welcome Him.
A broken immigration system will not be improved thorugh fear. We welcome comprehensive reform of the U.S. immigration system through a dialogue and approach which respects both borders and human dignity.
When one part of the Body of Christ is suffering, we all hurt. To our immigrant sisters and brothers: you are not alone. We see your fear and suffering, and we stand with you in solidarity.
When circumstances beyond your control keep you from Mass, you are dispensed from the obligation; your absence is not a failure but a burden we carry together.
I thank all of you who accompany immigrants with love and call on leaders to seek just and humane solutions. We take heart in knowing that Christ walks with us always, and for all of us, our true homeland is God’s Kingdom where we will all dwell together in perfect peace.
In Christ,
† Luis Rafael Zarama, J.C.L.
Bishop of Raleigh