As children rehearse for Christmas pageants where Mary and Joseph travel from inn to inn with no place to stay, it is hard not to think of the immigration issue that blankets the news these days. Congressional attempts to revise existing laws have been tabled for now. Some cities and states are trying to tackle the immigration issue on their own. What does the Catholic Church have to say about this topic?
Recently, the bishops in Maryland and Delaware issued a joint statement with helpful resources. Titled, Where All Find a Home: A Catholic Response to Immigration, the statement also offers four resource sheets 1) The Economics of Immigration, 2) The History of Immigration, 3) The Legal Immigration Process, and 4) The Root Causes of Migration.
In addition, the bishops have clearly outlined seven Basics of Church Teaching on Immigration. These statements are very helpful in clarifying the complex issues and responsibilities that exist. These teachings are:
1) All people have a right to have their basic human needs met in their homelands.
2) If their basic needs cannot be met in their homelands, persons have the right to seek them abroad.
3) The right to migrate is not absolute and can be mitigated in favor of the common good.
4) Nations may regulate borders to provide for national security, tranquility and prosperity.
5) The right to regulate borders is not absolute and regulations must promote the common good.
6) Nations with the ability to accommodate migrants should respond with generosity.
7) Families have the right to remain united.
The statement further expands on each of the above teachings and offers additional resources.
The immigration issue will not go away. As discussions and votes and debates continue, it is important to be as fully informed as possible.
Posted by APWeb 
