Bishop Wack Addresses Immigration in Letter to Diocese

In Brief:

👤 Who: Bishop William A. Wack, CSC; parishioners of the Catholic Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee
📌 What: Released a letter addressing immigration and family separation, referencing Catholic teachings
📅 When: October, during Respect Life Month
📍 Where: Northwest Florida, Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee
❓ Why: To guide Catholics in forming consciences about immigration issues and the impact on families in their communities

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PENSACOLA, Fla. — As the Catholic Church in the United States observes Respect Life Month throughout October, Bishop William A. Wack, CSC of the Catholic Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee has issued a letter addressing the current immigration situation to the faithful under his pastoral care across Northwest Florida.

In the letter, Bishop Wack encourages Catholics to reflect on immigration issues through the lens of their faith, rather than through a political debate. He writes, “As a pro-life people, can we support the separation of families with mixed immigration status? Can we, in good conscience, endorse policies that deport a working father – knowing the devastating impact it will have on his family – without also acknowledging his contributions to our communities? Can we accept that more children are being pushed into the foster care system because both parents have been deported? Can we continue to ignore the cry of the mothers and fathers, sisters and brothers – members of our own parishes – with whom we share the Eucharist every Sunday?”

The letter addresses the moral dimensions of immigration, highlighting the effects of family separation, deportation, and the resulting challenges faced by children, including increased entry into the foster care system. Bishop Wack emphasizes that Catholics are called to respond with compassion, in alignment with long-standing Church teaching on the dignity and rights of migrants.

Bishop Wack’s guidance underscores the responsibilities of elected officials to consider both legal and ethical implications when shaping immigration policies. The letter provides a framework for forming consciences and encourages parishioners to engage in thoughtful reflection and dialogue about the treatment of immigrant families in their communities.

Bishop Wack has previously addressed other social and moral concerns in letters emphasizing the consistent application of Catholic teaching in everyday life. This latest letter on immigration aligns with the Church’s broader commitment to human dignity, the sanctity of family, and the rights of all people, including those living in the United States without legal status.

Bishop Wack emphasized distinguishing between individuals who pose a threat and those seeking safety and opportunity, while cautioning against portraying all immigrants as dangers. The letter addresses family separation, deportation, and the impact on children entering the foster care system, calling on Catholics to consider the human consequences of enforcement practices.

Bishop Wack highlighted the Church’s longstanding teaching on migrant rights, citing both Pope Francis and the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and encouraged parishioners to act with compassion and mercy. He referenced local examples of community solidarity, such as disaster response, and noted detention centers in Florida, including the Everglades facility, urging the faithful to advocate for humane treatment. The letter also draws on diocesan history, recalling Bishop René H. Gracida’s statements against family separation in 1977.

The full letter is available online in both English and Spanish.

Parishioners are invited to learn more about the Church’s social teaching, immigration reform advocacy, and resources for prayer and pastoral care, including justiceforimmigrants.org.