Bishop Wester's response to President Obama's executive action

Friday, Nov. 21, 2014

Given the incredible human suffering of the undocumented in our country and the fact that our broken immigration system plays a large part in this suffering, I am pleased that President Obama has taken executive action in favor of some of those who have yet to achieve legal status in our country. While this action will certainly be met with some opposition, I believe it is critical to remember that this is a compassionate response to real human suffering. Immigration is a reality throughout the world, with about 1 billion people on the move. I pray that our great country will take its place as a leader in the world, preserving family unity, recognizing the vital contributions of immigrants, and protecting the basic human rights of all within our borders. The president's executive action should serve as a catalyst and incentive for our Congress and President to work together in an effort that results in comprehensive immigration reform in the United States. As people of faith, we believe that we are all immigrants, children of God, making our way toward the Kingdom of God. Treating our fellow immigrants well will illuminate the path for all of us.