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In a rare official declaration, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has delivered a strong condemnation of the White House's border enforcement measures.

Special Message Shows Deep Concern

The bishops expressed being concerned by risks to the sanctity of religious sites and the special nature of hospitals and schools.

Nations must maintain border control while developing equitable, systematic immigration processes that serve public welfare.

Atmosphere of Anxiety

Within their declaration, the bishops described what they called "a environment of apprehension around questions of discrimination" and border control measures.

They expressed being saddened by the ongoing debate and negative portrayal of immigrants, while opposing what they referred to as "the widespread removal of people."

Additional Concerns

Church authorities also raised serious worries about:

• Situations in border holding facilities
• Arbitrary removal of official documentation for some migrants
• Lack of meaningful immigration reform

Policy Changes

The Trump administration has implemented an aggressive immigration agenda since beginning the term, including revoking policies that curtailed immigration apprehensions near designated sites such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.

Global Perspective

The declaration parallels similar critiques made by the Vatican leader, who has urged "thorough contemplation about the way migrants are being addressed in the US under Trump."

Wider Consequences

This constitutes the first special message of its type in over a decade, underscoring the gravity of the church leaders' worries about existing enforcement approaches.