Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

Immigrant families hold a significant place in society and are not forgotten, according to a statement from the bishops of Kentucky and Tennessee. Issued on December 27, the statement assures immigrants that they have the Church's support. It reads, “Please be assured that you are not forgotten and know that the Church stands with you. You and your families are a cherished gift to the world.”

The declaration was signed by four bishops from Kentucky, including Louisville Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre, along with three bishops from Tennessee. These dioceses form the Province of Louisville, where Archbishop Fabre serves as metropolitan bishop.

The timing of this message coincides with the feast of the Holy Family on December 29. The bishops reflected on "the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph" and their experience as migrants fleeing to foreign lands. They expressed concern about "the ongoing heightened discussion surrounding our migrant community" which has led to fear and uncertainty.

This announcement arrives weeks before President-elect Donald Trump is set to take office. Trump's statements about initiating “the largest deportation” in U.S. history have sparked anxiety among immigrant communities.

In their message, the bishops reaffirmed their commitment to supporting immigrants’ rights “for your just treatment and dignity as our Catholic Social Teaching instructs in every way that we are able to do so.” They reiterated the Church's position on migration policy which supports individuals' rights to migrate for survival while recognizing nations' responsibilities to manage borders responsibly.

However, they clarified that migration rights "must be exercised with respect for human dignity" and should consider "the common good." The statement also highlights past advocacy efforts for immigration reform by the church focusing on pathways to citizenship, family reunification, protections against persecution, and basic human rights rooted in divine creation.

The bishops urged Catholics to educate themselves about immigrant issues, understand church teachings better, and actively support fair reform measures.

For those interested in reading more details about this statement online visit www.archlou.org/statement-of-the-bishops/.