“We feel compelled” to “raise our voices in defense of God-given human dignity”. In their “Special Message” issued in Baltimore, the US bishops reiterate the historical contribution of immigrants and call for a “meaningful” reform of laws and procedures, urging “an end to dehumanizing rhetoric and violence”. The bishops recall that the Church’s teaching is based on the centrality of the person created “in the image and likeness of God”, and look to the Gospel as a source of light in times marked by fear and polarization. In our communities we see “family members who have already been separated from their loved ones”, they write, also denouncing “threats against the sanctity of houses of worship and the special nature of hospitals and schools”. While recognizing the need for an orderly system for the sake of the common good, they note that without proper pathways, “immigrants face the risk of trafficking and other forms of exploitation”. The bishops also recall those priests, consecrated religious, and lay faithful who already accompany those who come and assist them “in meeting their basic human needs”. The bishops oppose the “mass deportation of people” and pray “that the Lord may guide the leaders of our nation”. The Message ends with an appeal to hope that “does not disappoint”.