In a significant move for the Diocese of San Bernardino, Bishop Alberto Rojas has communicated that parishioners who experience a “genuine fear of immigration enforcement actions” are exempt from attending Mass. This decision comes amidst escalating Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids in the Los Angeles area, which have led to approximately 2,000 arrests since June. It follows a similar exemption issued by the Nashville diocese after immigration raids there. Rojas highlighted that this dispensation is a rare action, generally reserved for extraordinary circumstances like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Bishop Relieves Parishioners from Mass Obligation Amid Immigration Raids
Bishop Relieves Parishioners from Mass Obligation Amid Immigration Raids
San Bernardino Bishop Alberto Rojas announces that parishioners can skip Mass if they fear immigration enforcement actions, reflecting a growing concern over federal raids.
The response from the Diocese reflects not just pastoral concern but also a broader dialogue within the Catholic Church regarding the safety and wellbeing of vulnerable communities. The move points to an increasing recognition of the impacts of immigration enforcement on daily life and religious practices, particularly for Latino populations who may feel targeted in such operations. In addition to Rojas's statement, the recent experiences of individuals detained in public spaces such as shopping centers and outside churches illustrate the urgent reality faced by many immigrants today. As more areas experience similar tensions, the stance of religious leaders could play a critical role in advocating for and supporting immigrant communities.
