Pope Francis has expressed strong criticism of the Trump administration’s immigration policies, particularly the president’s commitment to mass deportations, which he described as “a major crisis.” In a pointed letter addressed to U.S. Catholic bishops, the pope emphasized the need for Catholics to oppose any measures that equate the illegal status of migrants with criminal behavior.

Francis highlighted the plight of those who migrate out of extreme poverty, exploitation, or persecution, stating that deportation undermines the dignity of individuals and families, rendering them vulnerable and defenseless. The letter seems to counter comments made by Vice President Vance, who suggested that individuals should prioritize their own families, communities, and country before extending care to others.

In his response, the pope urged people to reflect on a love that fosters fraternity and inclusivity, without exclusions. He remarked, “Christian love is not a concentric expansion of interests that gradually encompasses other persons and groups.”

This criticism of Vance marks the second time a prominent Catholic leader has spoken out against him. Following Vance’s claims that the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops was resettling immigrants for federal funding, New York Cardinal Timothy Dolan rebuked those statements as “scurrilous” and “nasty.” Dolan pointed out, “If you want to examine our audits, which are meticulously maintained, you would see that we are not profiting from caring for immigrants. In fact, we are incurring significant losses. We are not in the business of making money.”