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Navigating Faith and Advocacy: U.S. Catholics Confront Immigration Issues This Lent

Update A Holy Season Amidst Division: U.S. Catholics at a Crossroads As Ash Wednesday approaches on February 18, 2026, Catholics across the U.S., particularly in Southern California, find themselves not only reflecting on their faith but also grappling with political controversies that challenge their beliefs. This year's Lenten season arrives at a time of heightened scrutiny surrounding immigration policies enforced during the Trump administration—policies that have incited deep divisions within the community. Faith and Advocacy: A Delicate Balance Pastoral leaders like Archbishop José Gomez of Los Angeles emphasize a dual approach: the call for peace and the defense of immigrant rights. The archbishop recently urged Catholics to “help America recover her soul,” advocating for a compassionate response to those impacted by aggressive immigration enforcement. His message resonates in the hearts of millions as the church steps forward amidst growing fears in immigrant communities. Isaac Cuevas, director of immigration and public affairs for the Archdiocese, remarked on the church’s commitment to accompany vulnerable populations: “Our role is to uphold the dignity of every human person.” This perspective is crucial as many undocumented immigrants live in fear of deportation and violence. Immigration: A Complex Issue The landscape of U.S. immigration is fraught with challenges. The Trump government's policies have led to the deportation of over 600,000 individuals in just one year and caused significant distress to communities who feel the weight of these actions. While some Catholic leaders align themselves with the administration's efforts to maintain security, others voice dissent, urging for policies that prioritize human dignity over punitive measures. In a recent homily, Gomez articulated strong concerns about the government's tactics, which he claimed often lead to fear and suffering among innocent families. Support for immigrant advocacy, like the stalled Dignity Act (HR 4333), reflects a growing push within the church to respond not just with prayers but with action. Uniting for Justice: A Call for Solidarity Archbishop Alexander K. Sample of Portland, Oregon, echoes Gomez's sentiments, urging Catholics to stand united across all ethnicities. “They are our brothers and sisters, we love them, and we stand with them in these difficult times,” he stated after a recent audience with Pope Leo XIV. The pope’s ongoing support serves as a reminder of the church's mission to act with compassion towards immigrants, particularly those facing the dire realities of detainment and deportation. Sample highlights the importance of building connections, suggesting that English-speaking communities reach out to their Hispanic counterparts, ensuring no one feels isolated during these crucial interactions. This unity stands in stark contrast to the antagonistic immigration policies currently in place. The Wider Implications: Beyond Faith to Policy The discourse on immigration raises pertinent questions about the church’s role in the public sphere. Critics argue that the current strategies employed by some bishops—such as processions to detention centers—may not be adequately addressing the root issues faced by those in need. Instead, they advocate for a more constructive engagement with governmental entities for the benefit of vulnerable populations. The call to refine the bishops' advocacy strategy comes against a backdrop of alarming statistics: nearly 1.4 million non-detained individuals are currently facing removal, with many others living in uncertainty. Advocating for humane treatment and seeking collaborations with the Department of Homeland Security to house non-criminal detainees represent potential steps towards a more compassionate approach, ensuring that the church's mission remains fulfilled. Lessons for All: The Power of Informed Faith For Catholics in Bakersfield and throughout the nation, this Lenten season serves as both a time of introspection and a platform for advocacy. It compels believers to examine their faith in light of contemporary issues, urging them to stand against injustice and advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves. As Lent unfolds, faithful across the archdiocese must balance their devotional practices with active participation in the broader community, fostering solidarity and healing where it is needed most. The intertwining of faith, advocacy, and politics during this sacred time calls for unity that transcends division. Conclusion: Calling for Action and Unity This year’s Lenten season invites Catholics not just to reflect but to act in alignment with their faith’s core teachings—emphasizing healing, peace, and support for the marginalized. As we navigate this intricate landscape of advocacy and faith, engaging with local communities while defending human dignity becomes paramount. It is essential to recognize the power of collective advocacy—standing firm together in this time of division. In this spirit, Californians, especially in Bakersfield, are encouraged to educate themselves about immigration issues and consider their role in supporting inclusive policies. Your voice and actions matter in shaping an equitable society.