The issue of immigration is one that calls forth strong opinions and even stronger emotions. Because of this, it is very easy to refuse to listen to the thoughts of others and to impugn their patriotism, their compassion, and even their faith when they hold a position at odds with our own. There is always the possibility as fallen human beings that we let our politics inform our faith, rather than letting our faith inform our politics. It is most important that as we consider various laws, policies, and situations, we recognize that men and women of good faith can and do come to different prudential judgments concerning them.
My purpose is not to resolve the conflicts which are evident over this issue. It would be irresponsible for me to presume to tell you what the one and only true Catholic position is regarding particular laws not only because I don’t know it but because such a thing does not exist. However, the Church does teach definitive principles which are to be applied to this issue.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church states: “The more prosperous nations are obliged, to the extent they are able, to welcome the foreigner in search of the security and the means of livelihood which he cannot find in his own country of origin. Public authorities should see to it that the natural right is respected that places a guest under protection of those who receive him.
Political authorities, for the sake of the common good for which they are responsible, may make the exercise of the right to immigrate subject to various judicial conditions, especially with regard to the immigrants’ duties toward their country of adoption. Immigrants are obliged to respect with gratitude the material and spiritual heritage of the country that receives them, to obey its laws and to assist in carrying civic burdens.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church #2241)
While the Catechism provides some framework for us to begin considering this issue, the text provokes perhaps even more questions. Prosperous nation are “obliged” to welcome the foreigner, but only “to the extent they are able”. Human persons have a right to the means necessary to support themselves and their families, yet for the common good, political authorities “may make the exercise of the right to immigrate subject to various judicial conditions.” Every nation has the right to protect its defined borders and to defend the “material and spiritual heritage” of its people, but it must do so in ways that acknowledge and protect the human dignity and rights of all persons who are in fact created in the image and likeness of God.
Last week, Bishop John Walter, Chairman of the USCCB Committee on Migration and Archbishop Munoz of the Bishops Conference of Mexico wrote a joint letter urging the leaders of Mexico and the United States “to focus upon the issue of immigration and how it impacts the most vulnerable: the migrant worker and their families. While we respect the obligation of both countries to ensure the integrity of their borders and the security of their peoples, we believe they can achieve these goals without sacrificing the basic human dignity and rights of the migrant. This requires both countries to examine critically their immigration policies, both in the areas of legal immigration and enforcement, and their adverse impact on human beings….The United States and Mexico have an opportunity to work together to prevent illegal immigration in a humane manner, not in a way which places total emphasis on enforcement measures.”
It is important for us to continue studying, listening, and learning in a spirit of openness and mutual respect.
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