Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

Bishop John Noonan of the Diocese of Orlando marked his 20th episcopal anniversary by addressing the importance of welcoming immigrants and upholding human dignity. In a letter to parishioners, Bishop Noonan reflected on the message from Scripture for the 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time, emphasizing that all people are valued by God regardless of their background.

He wrote, “Every person — no matter the land, language, race, or economic status — is a treasure from God for He breathed His life into each one of us that we might serve Him. Jesus reminds us that ‘some are last who will be first and some are first who will be last’ (Lk 13:30). He is telling me and you that God’s discernment surpasses our worldly eyes. We are called to live in such a way that the glory of His service is known and desired throughout the earth.”

Bishop Noonan noted that Catholics have a responsibility distinct from political or secular perspectives. He said, “You and I have a unique charge, one that flows against the political or secular language of the day. As we read Scripture, we note that God does not reserve His love for certain people. We know that Jesus kept company with the meek and lowly, with those who had fallen away from God, with those who were in the margins, that He might lead them to His heavenly Father. He anointed the apostles and His disciples to do the same.”

Addressing contemporary debates about immigration terminology and policy, Bishop Noonan expressed concern over labeling immigrants as “illegal aliens.” He stated this language separates individuals from compassion: “For many years, we have spoken about immigrants, labeling them illegal aliens or aliens, the meaning of which describes someone unsuitable for this earth. Yet, as we read God’s Word, we know that we are part of His Body… When we begin to label people, we also begin to separate them from us.”

He called on Catholics to recognize Christ in every person through participation in Mass: “On this Sunday...we come to God’s heavenly table and receive Jesus the Eucharist...Filled with His life...to love and serve...not just the ones whom we choose but all people because God chooses all.”

The bishop reiterated Catholic teaching on human dignity: “Our Catholic teaching is clear: human dignity is not lost even in sin. Every person deserves compassion...”

Reflecting on biblical history and tradition—such as ancestors fleeing Egypt or saints crossing borders—he urged application of these standards today: “Within the confines of our faith, we cannot imagine that any of these would not be welcome.”

Quoting Bishop Erik Pohlmeier of St. Augustine’s Diocese regarding Christian attitudes toward immigration enforcement efforts—“The temptation is to begin by justifying stronger efforts to remove those who entered…illegally. But that cannot be the starting point for Christians…”—Noonan emphasized seeing each immigrant as a person created by God.

“My sisters and brothers look beyond the issue…See God’s people,” he concluded.

The Diocese of Orlando was established in 1968 and currently includes 79 parishes across several counties in Central Florida under Bishop Noonan's leadership.