Pope Urges Rethink on Treatment of Migrants in the US

Pope Leo has called for a reconsideration of the treatment of migrants in the United States, particularly those detained at a facility in Broadview, near Chicago. During a press conference at his residence in Castel Gandolfo on November 7, 2023, the pontiff expressed concern over the refusal to grant holy Communion to these detainees, emphasizing the need for compassion and spiritual care.

Addressing reporters, Pope Leo referenced a passage from the Gospel of Matthew, stating, “Jesus says very clearly at the end of the world, we’re going to be asked, how did you receive the foreigner? Did you receive him and welcome him or not?” He urged for a deep reflection on the current treatment of migrants, highlighting that many individuals who have lived peacefully in the US for years are suffering due to recent policies.

The pope, a Chicago native and the first pontiff from the United States, has been vocal about the federal government’s hardline stance on immigration. He specifically noted the importance of recognizing the spiritual rights of detainees. “I would certainly invite the authorities to allow pastoral workers to attend to the needs of those people,” he said. “Many times they’ve been separated from their families for a good amount of time; no one knows what’s happening, but their own spiritual needs should be attended to.”

A delegation of clergy, including a Catholic bishop, attempted to provide holy Communion to the inmates on November 1, the Catholic feast of All Saints. However, they were denied access to the facility, which has been part of the broader immigration crackdown under the Trump administration. According to the US Department of Homeland Security, more than 3,000 individuals are currently held in detention in Chicago as part of this policy.

Since his election in May 2023, Pope Leo has adopted a more reserved style compared to his predecessor, Pope Francis. However, he has begun to openly criticize the Trump administration’s immigration policies, prompting backlash from some conservative Catholics. In his initial major document released on October 9, he reiterated calls for global support for immigrants, echoing sentiments expressed by Pope Francis regarding the treatment of migrants.

In addition to his remarks on immigration, Pope Leo also addressed the recent deployment of US warships around Venezuela. He criticized the government’s actions, stating that the role of armed forces should be “to defend peace,” arguing that such military maneuvers only increase tension. “We won’t win with violence; the right thing is to seek dialogue and a correct way to find solutions to the problems that can exist in a country,” he added.

Pope Leo’s statements reflect a growing concern among religious leaders about the humanitarian implications of current immigration policies and military actions, urging a return to dialogue and compassion for those affected.