ROME — In a significant critique, Pope Francis publicly condemned the Trump administration’s approach to mass deportations, cautioning that forcibly removing individuals solely due to their immigration status undermines their inherent dignity and foreshadows negative outcomes.
The pope addressed U.S. bishops in a letter that directly challenged Vice President JD Vance’s theological rationale for the deportation plans, asserting that such measures disregard humanitarian principles.
Tom Homan, the U.S. immigration enforcement chief, countered Francis’ remarks, reminding that the Vatican itself is a fortified city-state and suggesting that the Pope should concentrate on his role rather than border security, which falls under his jurisdiction.
As the first pope from Latin America, Francis has consistently prioritized the welfare of migrants throughout his papacy. He often references the biblical call to “welcome the stranger,” advocating for nations to accept, protect, and integrate those fleeing poverty, violence, and environmental crises. He emphasizes that governments should extend such protections as far as their capabilities allow.
The Argentine Jesuit has had a complicated history with U.S. immigration policies under Trump, notably expressing disapproval before Trump’s first term in 2016, when he remarked that anyone constructing walls to exclude migrants “is not a Christian.”
In his recent letter, Francis recognized that nations must defend their borders and ensure the safety of their citizens but differentiated this from the act of deporting individuals who often flee dire conditions such as extreme poverty, violence, and environmental degradation. He described this kind of deportation as degrading the dignity of those affected and leaving families vulnerable and defenseless.
Referencing scripture, including the Book of Exodus, Francis reinforced the right of individuals to seek refuge, labeling the ongoing deportation situation as a significant concern in the U.S. He argued that anyone familiar with Christian doctrine should assess such actions critically, highlighting the injustice of equating the illegal status of some migrants with criminality.
He warned, “Initiatives founded on coercion rather than the truth of every person’s equal dignity are destined for failure.”
According to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, since Trump took office, over 8,000 individuals have been apprehended in immigration operations, with many awaiting deportation in federal custody or at Guantanamo Bay.
Vance, a recent convert to Catholicism, has supported the administration’s stringent immigration policies by invoking “ordo amoris,” a principle from medieval Catholic thought that outlines a hierarchy of care. He suggested this philosophy prioritizes love for family first, then neighbors, communities, and finally, those outside one’s immediate concerns.
Pope Francis responded to Vance’s interpretation by asserting that true Christian love transcends mere hierarchy. He emphasized the need for fraternity that includes all individuals without exception, drawing on the parable of the Good Samaritan as a model for genuine compassion and inclusion.
David Gibson, director of Fordham University’s Center for Religion and Culture, remarked that the Pope’s message challenged various dubious theological interpretations promoted by Vance and the conservative Catholic faction.
Vance’s mention of the ordo amoris gained traction among many on the Catholic right, including the Catholic League, which applauded his viewpoint on prioritizing love based on responsibility.
In contrast, Eric Sammons, editor of Crisis Magazine, argued Vance’s position is harmonious with teachings from St. Augustine and St. Thomas Aquinas, who upheld the importance of ordering love within human relationships.
Responding to the Pope, Homan, who also identifies as Catholic, criticized Francis for his stance, suggesting that the pontiff should focus on issues within the Church while leaving immigration enforcement to government officials.
Notably, the Vatican recently toughened its penalties against illegal entry, instituting laws that could impose lengthy prison sentences and hefty fines for those entering the territory unlawfully.
The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops expressed concern earlier regarding the implications of Trump’s immigration policies, characterizing them as deeply troubling and ultimately harmful to vulnerable populations.
Historically, the U.S. Catholic hierarchy has prioritized abortion as a significant political issue, having endorsed the Supreme Court’s 2022 ruling that eliminated constitutional protections for abortion, a decision influenced by Trump-appointed justices. In the 2024 election, Trump secured 54% of Catholic voters, outperforming Biden’s share of 50% among Catholics in 2020.
Cardinal Blase Cupich of Chicago, who supports Francis, praised the pope’s message, indicating that it highlights the urgent need for advocacy for the dignity of migrants.
While it is common for a pope to communicate specific messages to a nation’s bishops or followers, it is rare for a pope to address a particular government policy. Nevertheless, migration remains a long-standing concern of the U.S. Catholic Church.
Additionally, tensions between the Vatican and the U.S. government are not limited to immigration. Recently, Caritas International, the Vatican’s primary charitable organization, warned that the cessation of USAID funding due to U.S. policies could lead to the deaths of millions, urging the government to reconsider its decision.
