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In a rare official declaration, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has delivered a firm denunciation of President Donald Trump's immigration policies.

Formal Statement Expresses Serious Worry

The bishops voiced being concerned by risks to the sanctity of houses of worship and the protected status of healthcare centers and learning establishments.

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

Climate of Fear

Within their declaration, the church leaders characterized what they called "a climate of fear around questions of profiling" and immigration enforcement.

They stated being disheartened by the current discussion and demonization of migrants, while opposing what they referred to as "the blanket expulsion of people."

Other Worries

Religious leaders also raised serious worries about:

• Conditions in migrant detention facilities
• Unjustified cancellation of official documentation for some migrants
• Insufficiency in meaningful immigration reform

Administrative Shifts

The Trump administration has pursued an tough immigration approach since beginning the term, including rescinding policies that curtailed immigration arrests near sensitive locations such as churches, hospitals and schools.

International Context

The declaration parallels comparable criticisms made by the Vatican leader, who has urged "thorough contemplation about the way immigrants are being treated in the US under the current administration."

Wider Consequences

This constitutes the premier official declaration of its nature in 12 years, highlighting the gravity of the church leaders' worries about present border measures.