Jens Asbjørn Bøgen
The Pope is ramping up his criticism of the Trump-administrations handling of immigrants.
The Pope is ramping up his criticism of the Trump-administrations handling of immigrants.
What is happening?
During a meeting at the Vatican on Wednesday, Pope Leo urged American bishops to speak out firmly against the treatment of immigrants under US-President Donald Trump’s policies, Reuters reports.
The message came as part of his growing public concern over the human cost of anti-immigration crackdowns.
Personal stories reach the Vatican
Attendees handed the pope dozens of letters from immigrants, many living in fear of deportation.
The personal accounts painted a grim picture of life under hardline enforcement, particularly along the U.S.-Mexico border.
El Paso bishop: “He’s very personally concerned”
Bishop Mark Seitz of El Paso, who participated in the meeting, told Reuters,vPope Leo made it clear that he wants the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops to speak out forcefully.
“It means a lot to all of us to know of his personal desire that we continue to speak out,” Seitz told Reuters.
A shift in papal tone
Since his election in May, Pope Leo has shown a more restrained style than his predecessor, Pope Francis, who was known for his blunt, spontaneous remarks.
However, Leo has recently begun voicing stronger views, particularly on immigration and social justice issues.
Drawing a line with Catholic teachings
On September 30, Pope Leo questioned whether Trump-era immigration policies align with the Church’s pro-life values.
The comment sparked backlash from conservative Catholic voices, revealing ongoing tensions within the Church on how to respond politically.
The White House defends Trump’s record
Responding to criticism, the Trump administration has pointed to campaign promises, especially the pledge to remove undocumented immigrants with criminal records.
The White House has repeatedly framed its immigration stance as a matter of law and order.
Immigrant letter highlights daily fear
One of the letters shared with Reuters described a family too afraid to leave their home due to the risk of deportation.
“I believe the Pope should speak out openly against the raids and the unfair treatment the community is experiencing,” the writer, in Spanish, pleaded.
Quiet thanks to migrant workers
A day before the bishops’ meeting, Pope Leo met privately with around 100 American Catholics working in migrant ministries.
He thanked them personally for their dedication and encouraged them to continue their efforts, offering moral support for their work on the ground.
No official Vatican statement yet
Although details emerged through attendees, the Vatican has not yet released an official comment on the meeting.
Pope Leo’s private diplomacy appears to be giving way to more vocal engagement on issues impacting vulnerable communities.
This article is made and published by Jens Asbjørn Bogen, which may have used AI in the preparation
