Pope Leo Meets Migrant Ministry Leaders Amid Rising Criticism

In addition to meeting the U.S. bishops, Pope Leo held a private gathering with around 100 American Catholics engaged in ministry with migrants. During this evening session, he thanked them for their dedication and the work they perform in supporting vulnerable communities.

Observers note that the pope’s outreach represents a continuation of his effort to address humanitarian concerns while navigating a politically sensitive environment. The Vatican has not issued an official comment on the bishops’ meeting, but Leo’s engagement demonstrates his growing focus on immigration issues.

The U.S. government maintains that its immigration enforcement policies reflect campaign promises to deport undocumented individuals with criminal records. Nonetheless, advocates and church leaders argue that these measures have led to widespread fear among immigrant families, with many reluctant to leave their homes even for essential activities.

By directly encouraging U.S. bishops to speak out, Pope Leo signals a renewed call for moral guidance from church leaders on the treatment of immigrants. As these discussions unfold, the pope’s interventions may influence both church advocacy and the broader debate over immigration policies in the United States.