STATEMENT FROM ARCHBISHOP ALEXANDER K. SAMPLE, ARCHDIOCESE OF PORTLAND, ON EXECUTIVE ORDERS REGARDING IMMIGRATION:
January 22, 2025
In response to the new administration's executive orders focused on immigration, I am in accord with the statement given by the President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio: “In response to this week’s Executive Orders signed by President Trump, Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) offered the following statement: “Many of the issues President Trump addresses in his recent Executive Orders, along with what may be issued in the coming days, are matters on which the Church has much to offer. Some provisions contained in the Executive Orders, such as those focused on the treatment of immigrants and refugees, foreign aid, expansion of the death penalty, and the environment, are deeply troubling and will have negative consequences, many of which will harm the most vulnerable among us. Other provisions in the Executive Orders can be seen in a more positive light, such as recognizing the truth about each human person as male or female. “I wish to reiterate that the Catholic Church is not aligned with any political party, and neither is the bishops’ conference. No matter who occupies the White House or holds the majority on Capitol Hill, the Church’s teachings remain unchanged. It is our hope that the leadership of our Country will reconsider those actions which disregard not only the human dignity of a few, but of us all. “Following the ancient tradition, Pope Francis has declared 2025 as a Jubilee Year of Hope. As Christians, our hope is always in Jesus Christ, who guides us through storm and calm weather. He is the source of all truth. Our prayer is one of hope that, as a Nation blessed with many gifts, our actions demonstrate a genuine care for our most vulnerable sisters and brothers, including the unborn, the poor, the elderly and infirm, and migrants and refugees. The just Judge expects nothing less.” The USCCB will publish additional information pertaining to specific Executive Orders on usccb.org. “ It is important to note that we do not yet fully understand all the repercussions of the executive orders. The leadership of the USCCB continues to study this question and advocate on behalf of the most vulnerable. As Catholics, we are called to uphold the sacredness and dignity of every human person and respect all people as children of God. I want to acknowledge that this is a time of fear and anxiety for many. To them I offer the words of Isaiah, "Do not fear, for I am with you, do not be afraid, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my victorious right hand." While there are many divisions in our country, now is the time for us to stand united in the love of God with all of our brothers and sisters, especially those who are most vulnerable. Along with your pastors, I am holding all Christ's flock in prayer and entrusting them to the care of Our Lady of Guadalupe. May God guide our new President and his administration to justly govern with care and compassion.