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Most Rev. Robert J. CarlsonPastoral Letter on Immigration ReformDear Friends,Recently, there has been much attention drawn to the issue of comprehensive immigration reform. As you may know, there are some harmful provisions in the proposed legislation that could forever change the lives of the near 12 million undocumented citizens who live and work in the United States. My fellow bishops and I acknowledge the need for reform, but propose changes that will bring about a more humane and just immigration system. We believe the human rights and the human dignity of our undocumented brothers and sisters must be respected and protected. We stand ready to support those in our midst who need our help, whatever the outcome of the immigration reform may be. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus instructs us to welcome the stranger: "For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me." (Mt. 25:35) We support an immigration system that provides safe and legal avenues for persons to enter our nation in order to obtain jobs and reunite with family members. We believe that opportunities should be provided for those in our country without proper immigration documentation to obtain legalization if they can demonstrate good moral character and have built up equities in this country. We support fair wages and benefits, which will not undercut domestic workers, and we encourage a labor-market test to ensure U.S. workers are not harmed. With the exception of our Native American brothers and sisters, we are all descendants of immigrants. When we call to mind the discrimination our own ancestors faced, we know that we must not let history repeat itself. Please pray for our leaders that they may implement humane and just immigration policies, and for immigrants, migrants, and refugees all over the world. May we be open to the work of the Spirit as we work to resolve this important and controversial issue. Sincerely Yours in Christ, Most Reverend Robert J. Carlson Bishop of Saginaw - Delivered May 5, 2006 | ||||||
