The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) has issued a "special message" on immigration during its Fall Plenary Assembly in Baltimore. This is the first time in twelve years that the bishops have used this urgent form of communication, previously invoked in 2013 regarding the federal contraceptive mandate.

According to USCCB protocols, "special messages" can only be released during plenary assemblies and must be deemed appropriate by either the conference president, the Administrative Committee, or the full body of members. Approval requires a two-thirds majority from those present and voting. The immigration message was passed with 216 votes in favor, five against, and three abstentions. The vote was followed by extended applause.

The full text of the bishops' special message states:

"As pastors, the bishops of the United States, we are united with our people in our Lord Jesus Christ by bonds of communion and compassion. We are troubled to see a climate of fear and anxiety in our communities due to profiling practices and immigration law enforcement. We are deeply saddened by the tone adopted in contemporary debate and the growing denigration of immigrants. We are concerned about conditions in detention centers and lack of access to adequate pastoral care. We regret that some immigrants living in the United States have lost their migration status arbitrarily. We are concerned about threats against the sanctity of places of worship, and the special character of hospitals and schools. We are deeply saddened when we meet parents who fear being detained while taking their children to school or when we try to comfort families already separated from loved ones."

"Despite obstacles and prejudice, for generations immigrants have contributed immensely to our nation's well-being. As Catholic bishops, we profess our love for our country and pray for its peace and prosperity. For this very reason we feel compelled at this time to raise our voices in defense of human dignity granted by God."

"Catholic teaching urges nations to recognize the fundamental dignity of all people, including immigrants. As bishops, we advocate for meaningful reform of our nation’s laws and immigration procedures. Human dignity and national security are not conflicting values; both can be achieved through goodwill and cooperation."

"We recognize that nations have a responsibility to control their borders and establish a fair and orderly immigration system for the common good. Without such procedures, immigrants risk falling victim to human trafficking and other forms of exploitation. Legal and safe pathways serve as an antidote against these risks."

"The Church’s teaching is based on fundamental concern for each human person created in God’s image (Genesis 1:27). As pastors, we turn to Sacred Scripture and God’s example where we find wisdom in His compassion. The Lord's priority—as prophets remind us—is for society's most vulnerable: widows, orphans, poor people, migrants (Zechariah 7:10). In Jesus Christ we see one who became poor for us (2 Corinthians 8:9), who lifts us up like the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-37), who is found among 'the least' (Matthew 25). The Church’s concern for neighbor—and ours here for immigrants—is a response to Christ's commandment to love as He has loved us (John 13:34)."

"To our immigrant brothers and sisters: we stand with you in your suffering—if one member suffers, all suffer together (1 Corinthians 12:26). You are not alone!"

"We observe with gratitude that so many priests, religious men and women, consecrated persons, lay faithful already accompany immigrants meeting basic human needs. We urge all people of goodwill to continue—and expand—these efforts."

"We oppose mass indiscriminate deportations. We pray for an end to dehumanizing rhetoric or violence—whether directed at immigrants or law enforcement agencies alike. We pray that God guides our nation’s leaders; we are grateful for opportunities past and present to dialogue with public officials—elected or appointed—and will continue advocating significant immigration reform."

"As disciples of Christ—we remain men and women filled with hope—and hope does not disappoint! (Romans 5:5)"

"May Our Lady of Guadalupe wrap us all in her maternal loving care drawing us ever closer into Christ’s heart."