The newly appointed archdiocese leader addressed immigration, law, and compassion in his first public remarks.
The new leader of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York urged the United States to remain a country that upholds human dignity while also securing its borders and enforcing its laws, offering part of his remarks in Spanish during a public address.
The newly appointed leader of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York delivered his first public message on Thursday, calling on the United States to balance compassion with the rule of law. Speaking to congregants, he emphasized the importance of respecting human dignity while maintaining border security.
In a notable moment, the archdiocese leader offered part of his greeting in Spanish, a gesture aimed at acknowledging the diversity of the Catholic community in New York and across the United States. He said the nation should strive to be welcoming without abandoning its legal framework.
“We must be a country that upholds human dignity,” he said, while also stressing the need to protect borders and enforce laws. The remarks reflect a longstanding position within the Catholic Church that calls for humane treatment of migrants alongside respect for national sovereignty.
The comments come amid ongoing national debate over immigration policy, border enforcement, and asylum. Religious leaders have increasingly weighed in on the issue, urging policymakers to consider moral and humanitarian principles.
Church officials said the address was intended to set a tone for the archdiocese’s leadership going forward, focusing on unity, respect, and dialogue across political and cultural lines.
The archdiocese has not outlined specific policy proposals but said it will continue engaging with community leaders and lawmakers on issues related to immigration, social justice, and public life.
