A Catholic bishop in California has made a significant decision by issuing a decree that permits churchgoers to miss Mass if they are concerned about potential raids by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Bishop Alberto Rojas of the Diocese of San Bernardino articulated that “such fear constitutes a grave inconvenience that may impede the spiritual good of the faithful.”
This decree is notable as Catholic bishops have historically offered exemptions from Mass attendance during events like natural disasters, wartime conditions, or public health crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. However, this marks the first instance where a bishop has cited immigration enforcement as a reason for the exemption.
This exemption highlights the significant step taken by Rojas, as attending Sunday Mass and certain holy days such as All Saints Day and Christmas is typically mandatory for observant Catholics.
The Roman Catholic Catechism outlines that neglecting to attend Mass without a serious reason could be considered a mortal sin.
As reported by the Pew Research Center, about 20% of U.S. adults, which equates to roughly 53 million individuals, identify as Catholic.
The Diocese of San Bernardino is among the largest dioceses in the United States, catering to approximately 1.6 million Catholics in San Bernardino and Riverside counties within Southern California.
“In issuing this decree, I am guided by the Church’s mission to care for the spiritual welfare of all entrusted to my care, particularly those who face fear or hardship,” Rojas added.
Bishop Rojas encouraged congregants to seek alternative means to “maintain their spiritual communion with Christ,” including participating in virtual Masses when available.
Over the years, U.S. presidents have typically restricted federal agencies from carrying out civil immigration enforcement actions in sensitive areas such as churches, schools, and hospitals.
However, President Donald Trump eliminated those protections on his first day in office, leading to federal agents apprehending undocumented individuals in schools and even within church grounds.
Responding to the decree, California Governor Gavin Newsom cited it to underscore the aggressive immigration strategies of the Trump administration, highlighting incidents of ICE raids at businesses and courthouses.
“Freedom of religion? Not in Donald Trump’s America,” Newsom remarked on X. “People now have to choose between their faith and their freedom.”
The White House has yet to respond to Finance Newso’s inquiries regarding the bishop’s decree or Newsom’s statements.
