Archbishop Broglio's statement follows:
"In the United States, we are fortunate to live in a democracy and yesterday Americans went to the polls to choose who should lead our country as the next President of the United States. I congratulate President-elect Trump, as well as the national, state and local officials who campaigned to represent the people. Now, we move from campaigning to governing. We rejoice in our ability to transition peacefully from one government to the next.
"The Catholic Church is not aligned with any political party, and neither is the bishops' conference. No matter who occupies the White House or holds the majority on Capitol Hill, the Church's teachings remain unchanged, and we bishops look forward to working with the people's elected representatives to advance the common good of all. As Christians, and as Americans, we have the duty to treat each other with charity, respect, and civility, even if we may disagree on how to carry out matters of public policy. As a Nation blessed with many gifts we must also be concerned for those outside our borders and eager to offer assistance to all.
"Let us pray for President-elect Trump, as well as all leaders in public life, that they may rise to meet the responsibilities entrusted to them as they serve our country and those whom they represent. Let us ask for the intercession of our Blessed Mother, the patroness of our nation, that she guide to uphold the common good of all and promote the dignity of the human person, especially the most vulnerable among us, including the unborn, the poor, the stranger, the elderly and infirm, and migrants."
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1. It should be noted that legal immigration status is not required to be a parishioner. In fact, registration establishes evidence of one's presence in the United States and can help with documentation. In asking, I was told that the parish records are kept safe in a trust that authorities cannot access.
2. By registering in a parish, Catholics can track their sacraments should they move or be deported.
3. Demonstrates community involvement. Parishioners have the opportunity to volunteer in parish-wide events and should they need a letter of recommendation, the Pastor can provide this document.
I think the reason this is such a charged issue with some is that it is part of the corporal works of mercy, like visiting the imprisoned, housing the homeless, or feeding the hungry - that requires us to dig deep and give out of love for our fellow man in need. It is possible to both control one's borders AND be merciful. That is what the Bishop is saying (above) and not making this out to be some political stance, which is how feel Vice President Vance has done.
