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Via a uncommon official declaration, America's Catholic bishop leadership has released a strong condemnation of the White House's immigration policies.

Special Message Shows Significant Apprehension

Church leaders voiced being troubled by threats against the sacred nature of houses of worship and the unique character of healthcare centers and learning establishments.

Nations must maintain border control while developing equitable, systematic immigration processes that serve public welfare.

Climate of Fear

In their message, the bishops characterized what they termed "a environment of apprehension around questions of targeting" and immigration policies.

They stated being disappointed by the current discussion and negative portrayal of foreign nationals, while resisting what they referred to as "the indiscriminate mass deportation of people."

Other Worries

The bishops also voiced serious worries about:

• Situations in immigration detention centers
• Arbitrary removal of legal status for some migrants
• Absence of comprehensive immigration system improvements

Procedural Adjustments

The Trump administration has advanced an aggressive immigration agenda since taking office, including revoking policies that curtailed immigration arrests near sensitive locations such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.

International Context

The statement mirrors equivalent concerns made by Pope Leo, who has advocated for "deep reflection about the way migrants are being treated in the US under Trump."

Wider Consequences

This represents the first special message of its type in 12 years, emphasizing the gravity of the church leaders' worries about current immigration policies.