Los Angeles: As demonstrations erupt across the United States against federal deportation crackdowns, Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles delivered a powerful message of inclusion and hope during a special Mass for Peace and Unity, urging believers to remember that God’s love transcends all borders and languages.
The Mass, held in the wake of nationwide outrage over mass deportations, took place amid rising tension in Los Angeles. Protests began on June 6 following immigration raids by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in L.A. and have since spread to other cities. Responding pastorally to the unrest, Archbishop Gomez gathered the faithful to pray for healing and unity.
“Jesus gave His life not for a select few, but for every human being—past, present, and future,” Archbishop Gomez affirmed in his homily. “It doesn’t matter what nation we come from or what language we speak. God’s dream is for the whole human family.”
He denounced the climate of fear and division gripping the city, calling for compassion and understanding. “We pray for our neighbours—men and women of faith who work hard and live in fear—and also for law enforcement, who risk their lives daily for the safety of our communities.”
Highlighting the very meaning of the word Catholic, the Archbishop said, “It means universal, without exception. No one is outside the embrace of the Church or the love of God. We are all children of one Father, and brothers and sisters to one another.”
Meanwhile, across the border, the Mexican Episcopal Conference released a statement expressing deep concern over the developments in the United States. Referring to Archbishop Gomez’s appeal, the bishops acknowledged the complexity of immigration but emphasized a distinction: “While some undocumented individuals may break the law, the overwhelming majority are honest people contributing positively to their communities.”
Quoting Scripture, the bishops reminded that the commandment in the Book of Numbers is clear: “The foreigner shall be treated the same as the native among you.” They called for compassionate immigration reform and urged governments to act not out of fear but for the common good.
The message concluded with a heartfelt prayer for mutual understanding and unity: “May God grant us the grace to see in one another a brother, a sister—and together, let us work toward a better, more just world.”
In a time of rising nationalism and fear, the voices of these Church leaders offer a counter-narrative rooted in the Gospel: unity over division, love over fear, and dignity for all—regardless of nationality.