The Bishop of Birmingham Stephen J. Rassia says immigration challenges “not insurmountable” – 1819 News

The Bishop of Birmingham Stephen J. RAAS responds to the latest developments and discussions about immigration, admitting that it is a “complicated question”.

“We admit that immigration is complicated,” Raaca said. “Acknowledgment that state nations have the right to create laws and to control the borders and ports of entry to provide good civil order and safety for all citizens.”

The Birmingham Roman Catholic Diocese covers an area of ​​28 091 square miles and includes 39 counties in the northern part of Alabama. Bishop Stephen J. Raasa was installed on June 23, 2020.

In a statement published on Friday afternoon, he began: “After hearing from people with goodwill around the diocese and as Bishop of Birmingham in Alabama, I was deeply moved to the light of the last national events to deal with the issue of immigration – Aaaa Syper topic that touches many here in our diocese. This is at the heart of who we are as a nation and as a nation. Immigration is not just a matter of policy or policy; This is a deeply moral (ie human) question that calls us to react with compassion, courage and conviction. “

The statement comes twelve days in President Donald Trump’s second term. As his border king Tom Homan focuses on the deportation of violent criminals throughout the nation. According to Website for Immigration and Customs Act in the United States (ICE)The agency has detained numerous persons with violent criminal records for rape, attack, abduction, sexual assault of children, firearms and drug accusations. Homan stressed that while the administration is currently prioritized to those of violent origin, the ice will illegally retain those in the country that have been found with them.

Much of the bishop’s statement focuses on the positive effects of immigration, while not making the distinction between legal and illegal immigration, saying: “The order of our Lord to” love your neighbor as yourself. “

He emphasized: “This is the story of America – a story of welcoming the stranger, perception of different cultures and creating something truly symphonic, while strengthening the very meaning of” We humans. “

The rest of the statement as follows:

However, we admit that immigration is complicated. Undoubtedly, the sovereign nations have the right to create laws and to control the borders and ports of entry to provide good civil order and safety for all citizens. This is not one or a situation, but a balance, the one in which justice corresponds to mercy and laws, coexist with compassion. When we see immigrants who are struggling with an outdated system and burdensome processes, they remind us of our shared responsibility for dealing with these problems so that the movement of people can be tidy, effective, fair and fair to all.

The challenges of immigration reform are not insurmountable. With open hearts and clear vision, we can work for solutions that worship both our laws and our inner security and our ambitious values, while allowing the movement of nations that seek to participate in the fullness of the American dream.

As we ponder this, we are inspired by the call of Christ to welcome the stranger. This is not an abstract command, but a tangible invitation to live our faith in practical ways. To open our hearts to the immigrant means to open our hearts to Christ Himself, who reminds us that whatever we do the least among us, we do for Him.

As always, we urge our legislators, community leaders and every person with good will to take this issue seriously, to work hard for reasonable decisions and reasonable premises when necessary, and to strengthen our nation as a place of hope for those who They long for “breathe free. “Passing beyond separation and fear, can we choose instead to view immigration as an opportunity for renewal and growth, not for stagnation; understanding, not suspicion; I hope, not despair.

As we travel together, can we remain a nation that honors the dignity of all people and strives to be a home for those who are looking for better tomorrow. We bend into the promise of our faith and the power of our shared humanity. This is my hope!

Apryl Marie Fogel is a resident of Birmingham, who often appears and guest hosts radio programs in the state. It can be found at [email protected] or X and Facebook on @aprylmarieS

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