Archdiocesan Statement on Immigrants and Refugees
(En Espanol)
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Catholic teaching has long recognized the right and responsibility of each sovereign nation to
maintain proper border security to protect its citizens while simultaneously remaining clear on the
respect owed to the dignity of every person as created in the image of God. Consequent to this
dignity is the right of each person to have proper access to food, water, healthcare, employment,
justice, and freedom from oppression. As Pope Francis exhorts us, we must be especially attentive
to the needs of the poor and vulnerable, which includes immigrants and refugees. Christians are
keenly aware that the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph were refugees for a time, traveling to
another country to escape violence and death as imposed by the unjust decree of King Herod.
As pastors, we hear the concerns of our brothers and sisters, heightened by recent threats of
aggressive immigration enforcement actions, who flee to escape various forms of injustice, such
as violence, war, and persecution. These migrants and refugees are often beloved members of our
communities, parishes, and schools who inspire by their faithful witness and devotion to their faith,
commitment to their families and fruitful participation in the civic life of their communities. Using
the foundational principles of the Church's social and moral teaching, we will continue to advocate
for the just and dignified treatment of migrants as well as for national immigration reform that
includes targeted, proportionate, and humane enforcement, and reasonable pathways to
citizenship for long-time residents with an emphasis on family unity. We are committed to
accompanying those in need through prayer, advocacy, ongoing formation and education, legal
remedies, and all proper means of support.
In Indiana, we continue to support meaningful reforms that affirm the desire of so many migrants
who wish to contribute fruitfully to society. It is our hope that reasonable policies can uplift those
who feel trapped by the challenges of navigating our country's immigration system. Serious
offenders with a history of harming U.S. citizens and immigrants, however, should not find
protection under these reforms.
I invite all in our Catholic communities to join me in supporting our migrant brothers and sisters as
we advocate for meaningful immigration reform. As Catholics and Americans, we have a moral
obligation to discern the difference between the vulnerable and those who hide among the
vulnerable seeking to exploit them. May we never tire of being Christ-centered in our unity as
People of God, Pilgrims of Hope, and Missionary Disciples of Jesus Christ, Savior of the World.
Most Reverend Charles C. Thompson
Archbishop of Indianapolis