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In a rare official declaration, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has released a strong condemnation of President Donald Trump's border enforcement measures.

Formal Statement Shows Deep Concern

Church leaders voiced being concerned by threats against the sanctity of churches and the protected status of hospitals and schools.

We recognize that nations have a responsibility to regulate their borders and establish a just and orderly immigration system for the sake of the common good.

Atmosphere of Anxiety

Within their declaration, the religious figures described what they called "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of discrimination" and immigration policies.

They revealed being disheartened by the current discussion and vilification of migrants, while rejecting what they referred to as "the indiscriminate mass deportation of people."

Additional Concerns

Religious leaders also raised significant concerns about:

• Circumstances in border holding facilities
• Unjustified cancellation of authorized standing for various foreign nationals
• Insufficiency in meaningful immigration reform

Administrative Shifts

The Trump administration has pursued an aggressive immigration agenda since beginning the term, including rescinding policies that limited immigration detentions near sensitive locations such as religious institutions, medical facilities and educational centers.

International Context

The message echoes similar critiques made by the Vatican leader, who has urged "deep reflection about the way migrants are being handled in the US under the current administration."

Broader Implications

This marks the premier formal statement of its type in more than ten years, underscoring the seriousness of the church leaders' worries about present border measures.