Immigrants are living in fear. As Catholics, we must respond with love

Immigrants Are Living in Fear. As Catholics, We Must Respond With Love

By Jean Welch Hill | NW Catholic | June 20, 2025

As immigration enforcement intensifies and fear grows within immigrant communities, many Catholic families are being forced to choose between practicing their faith and risking deportation. The sacred spaces of churches are no longer guaranteed sanctuaries, and mixed-status families are increasingly avoiding sacraments like Mass out of fear.

Jean Welch Hill, Executive Director of the Washington State Catholic Conference, calls Catholics to act with humility, compassion, and courage — reminding us that our faith demands love for the vulnerable and advocacy for the dignity of all people.