IHM Congregational Response on Immigration
We, the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary of Malvern, PA stand in solidarity with our immigrant sisters and brothers. This commitment is rooted in the Gospel mandate to welcome the stranger and Jesus’ words in Matthew 25:40: “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me”. Catholic Social Teaching affirms the dignity and intrinsic value of each human person, and this belief compels us to live in accordance with gospel teaching.
Therefore:
- As Catholic religious women, we accept this moral mandate to protect the rights of each immigrant who is seeking refuge in our country.
- As educators and collaborators in ministry, we seek ways to build a society that welcomes, protects, integrates, and promotes the well-being of our sisters and brothers who migrate, and we do so in ways that accompany them.
- As advocates with local and national organizations, we promote just immigration policies that address the immediate needs of each immigrant, provide a legal pathway to citizenship, and ensure family unity while respecting each one’s rights and dignity.
