Pope Francis has expressed his concerns over President Donald Trump's plans for mass deportations of immigrants, calling it a 'disgrace.' The Pope made these comments during an appearance on an Italian talk show, where he emphasized that making 'poor wretches who have nothing pay the bill' for the immigration problem is not the solution. He further stated that such actions are not the way to resolve issues.
Despite his criticism, Pope Francis sent a telegram of congratulations to President Trump on his inauguration day, expressing his hope that America would continue to be a 'land of opportunity and welcome for all.' He prayed for the American people to prosper under Trump's leadership and strive towards building a more just society free from hatred, discrimination, and exclusion.
This is not the first time the Pope has spoken out against Trump's immigration policies. In 2016, he famously remarked that anyone who builds a wall to keep out migrants is 'not Christian.' Many U.S. bishops, including Cardinal Robert McElroy and Cardinal Blasé Cupich, have also criticized Trump's deportation plans, citing them as incompatible with Catholic doctrine.
Cardinal Cupich, in a statement from Mexico City, emphasized the importance of protecting the rights and human dignity of all people, while acknowledging the need for governments to safeguard borders and communities. Pope Francis, who has a personal connection to the immigrant experience through his family's history, has consistently advocated for the welcoming, protection, and integration of migrants.
His stance is rooted in the belief that the dignity and rights of migrants should take precedence over national security concerns. The Pope's unwavering support for migrants reflects his broader commitment to social justice and compassion for those in need.
