Two experts in Catholic social teaching on immigration tackled the issue for a webinar hosted by the Archdiocese of San Francisco’s Office of Human Life & Dignity on Sept. 18.
The webinar was hosted in anticipation of National Migration Week, observed Sept. 23-29, 2024, as a way to explore the Church’s social teachings on immigration, reflecting on this year’s theme, “God Walks with His People.” The webinar aimed to deepen understanding of a complex issue and encourage action in support of migrants within the Catholic community.
Tony Cube, national manager of the U.S. bishops’ Justice for Immigrants agency, emphasized the Church’s commitment to welcoming immigrants, stating, “The corporal works of mercy…we feed the hungry, we shelter the homeless, we seek justice for the oppressed. It makes sense to welcome the immigrants.”
Isaac Cuevas, Director of Immigration from the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, was also in attendance.
Dr. Todd Scribner, assistant director of Education and Outreach at the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Department of Migration and Refugee Services, addressed the Scriptural basis of Catholic social teaching on immigration. He reminded participants of St. Paul’s Letter to the Hebrews, Chapter 13: “We need to be careful when we encounter strangers because we may be entertaining angels unaware.” This underscores the Church’s belief in the inherent dignity of every person, made in the image of God, regardless of their immigration status. He also emphasized the need for prudence in addressing immigration issues, advocating for a balance between compassion and practical considerations. This involves recognizing the distinct categories of migrants and understanding the legal and economic frameworks that govern immigration including the rights of nations to maintain their borders as one of the principles that is at play. Finally, Scribner articulated the Church’s stance on ethical migration, advocating for systems that protect the dignity of migrants, support family unity, and ensure migration is a choice, not a necessity.
In the Archdiocese of San Francisco, on Oct. 12, we will celebrate immigrants with the Bay Area Rosary Rally In honor of “Our Lady Who Unites All Peoples” and the Mass of the Americas offered for All Immigrants by San Francisco Archbishop Salvatore J. Cordileone. The Office of Human Life & Dignity is organizing a series of Know Your Rights workshops for immigrants. More information on the Archdiocesan immigration ministry can be found here.
