Catholic Church Defies ICE Raids, Urges Migrant Safety Over Sunday Mass Attendance

Catholic Church Pushes Back on Trump’s ICE Raids, Says Migrants Can Skip Mass Over Fear of Arrest

As fear spreads through immigrant communities amid intensified ICE raids under Donald Trump's administration, Catholic leaders are taking an extraordinary step. At least two U.S. dioceses — including San Bernardino and Nashville — have told parishioners that they are not obligated to attend Sunday Mass if they fear being arrested.

Bishop Alberto Rojas of San Bernardino, California, who oversees over 1.5 million Catholics, issued the guidance after ICE agents reportedly targeted two parishes in his region. “There is a real fear gripping many in our parish communities,” Rojas wrote. “Sadly, that includes attending Mass.” The move underscores the Church's commitment to protecting not just the souls, but also the physical safety of its people.

In a joint statement, Rojas and Vicar General Gerard Lopez emphasized that the Church’s mission includes safeguarding those in hardship:

"I'm guided by the Church's mission to care for the spiritual welfare of all entrusted under my care, particularly those who face fear or hardship."

This echoes a similar message from the Diocese of Nashville earlier this year, which clarified that safety concerns override the usual Sunday obligation. These rare dispensations highlight the gravity of the threat many immigrants feel — even in places once considered sanctuaries.

Father James Martin, a prominent Catholic priest, called it a “dramatic sign” of how unsafe churches have become under aggressive immigration enforcement. He asked bluntly: “Where are the voices for religious freedom now?”

Pope Leo XIV has also defended migrants, drawing parallels to the biblical story of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph fleeing to Egypt as refugees.

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops acknowledged the tension, stating:

“While civil authorities have a duty to enforce the law, the God-given dignity of every person must be respected — including the right to migrate in search of safety and freedom.”

As Trump’s immigration agenda grows more forceful, the Catholic Church appears increasingly willing to confront it — prioritizing human dignity and safety over politics.