Recently, Pope Francis penned a heartfelt letter to the bishops of the United States, commending their dedication to safeguarding the rights and dignity of migrants. In a message dated 10 February 2025, the Pope expressed his solidarity with the bishops’ commitment to upholding the fundamental dignity of every individual, especially those affected by displacement.
By Vatican News
In this letter , Pope Francis drew parallels between the Holy Family’s journey into Egypt and the struggles faced by migrants today. He emphasized the importance of recognizing migration as a pivotal moment in history, shedding light on the faith in God and the inherent dignity of every human being. Referring to Pope Pius XII’s teachings on the Holy Family as a model for migrants, the Pope commended the bishops for their defense of migrants rooted in the mission of Christ and the Church.
Supporting Human Dignity
In a poignant 10-point message, Pope Francis acknowledged the challenges posed by mass deportations in the United States and lauded the bishops for their compassionate stance towards migrants. He stressed that the essence of Christian love lies in acknowledging the dignity of all individuals, irrespective of their legal status. The Pope urged the bishops to remember that the measure of a just society lies in how it treats its most vulnerable members, emphasizing that the regulation of migration should never compromise the essential dignity of each person.
Expressing gratitude for the bishops’ advocacy against narratives that demonize migrants, Pope Francis highlighted their vital role in ensuring that policies uphold human rights. He assured the bishops that their efforts to protect and defend those marginalized by society would be richly rewarded.
Empowering the Church’s Mission
Amidst ongoing challenges, Pope Francis encouraged the bishops to persevere in their mission, promoting solidarity and compassion despite social and political pressures. He commended their pastoral ministry as a beacon of hope for the marginalized, urging them to lead by example in fostering an inclusive and just society. Through their commitment, the faithful are reminded that true Christian identity manifests in fraternity and unwavering defense of human dignity.
A Prayer for Unity
In closing, Pope Francis entrusted the bishops and the migrants they serve to the protection of Our Lady of Guadalupe. He prayed for unity among all individuals, fostering a society that is more fraternal, inclusive, and respectful of the dignity of every person.
For the full text of Pope Francis’ letter to the U.S. Bishops, click here
Embracing Human Dignity: A Call for Solidarity and Compassion
As the world grapples with the complex issue of migration and deportation, it is crucial to strike a balance between national security and the fundamental rights of every individual. While acknowledging the need for nations to protect themselves and ensure the safety of their communities, we must also recognize the plight of those who have fled their homelands due to extreme poverty, insecurity, persecution, or environmental degradation.
An authentic rule of law is one that upholds the dignity of all individuals, especially the most marginalized and vulnerable in society. True progress is achieved when we, as a society, welcome, protect, promote, and integrate those who are in need, without discrimination or prejudice. It is essential to develop policies that regulate migration in an orderly and legal manner, without sacrificing the rights and dignity of those seeking refuge.
For Christians, affirming the infinite dignity of every human being is at the core of our identity and faith. We are called to love unconditionally and to build a fraternity that is inclusive and compassionate. The parable of the Good Samaritan teaches us to extend our love and care to all, without exception.
It is easy to fall into the trap of prioritizing personal, community, or national identity over the well-being of others, leading to division and conflict. We must resist such ideologies and strive to live in solidarity and fraternity, bridging the gaps that separate us and embracing our shared humanity.
I commend the efforts of the bishops of the United States in their work with migrants and refugees, and I urge all people of goodwill to reject narratives that discriminate and cause unnecessary suffering. Let us stand together in charity and clarity, building bridges instead of walls, and embracing a society that values the dignity of every individual.
Let us turn to Our Lady of Guadalupe for guidance and protection for all those who are living in fear and uncertainty due to migration and deportation. May her example of reconciliation inspire us to come together as brothers and sisters, fostering a society that is more fraternal, inclusive, and respectful of the dignity of all.
With heartfelt solidarity,
Francis
From the Vatican, 10 February 2025
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[1]Cf. DICASTERY FOR THE DOCTRINE OF THE FAITH, DeclarationDignitas infinitaon human dignity, 2 April 2024.
[2]PIUS XII, Apostolic ConstitutionExsul Familia, 1 August 1952: “Exsul Familia Nazarethana Iesus, Maria, Ioseph, cum ad Aegyptum emigrans tum in Aegypto profuga impii regis iram aufugiens, typus, exemplar et praesidium exstat omnium quorumlibet temporum et locorum emigrantium, peregrinorum ac profugorum omne genus, qui, vel metu persecutionum vel egestate compulsi, patrium locum suavesque parentes et propinquos ac dulces amicos derelinquere coguntur et aliena petere.
[3] Cf. FRANCIS, Encyclical LetterFratelli tutti, 3 October 2020.
