As the Catholic Church in the United States observes Respect Life Month throughout October, Bishop William A. Wack, CSC of the Catholic Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee is releasing a letter to those under his spiritual care throughout Northwest Florida on the immigration situation. Bishop Wack invites the faithful to "set aside partisan talking points and reflect instead as disciples Jesus Christ," asking:
"As a pro-life people, can we support the separation of families with mixed immigration status? Can we, in good conscience, endorse policies that deport a working father – knowing the devastating impact it will have on his family – without also acknowledging his contributions to our communities? Can we accept that more children are being pushed into the foster care system because both parents have been deported? Can we continue to ignore the cry of the mothers and fathers, sisters and brothers – members of our own parishes – with whom we share the Eucharist every Sunday?"
Grounded in longstanding Catholic teaching on the rights of migrants and the responsibilities of elected officials, the letter provides a framework to form our consciences so that we do not forget the struggles of many immigrant families in our midst.