Contact Information
1404 East 9th Street
Cleveland, OH 44114
(216) 696-6525
(800) 869-6525
Bishop Edward Malesic has been asked many times during his years as a bishop for his take on the immigration issues facing the U.S. Below is a short summary statement, followed by links to his prior writings and links to statements he supports as a member of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB).
As followers of Jesus Christ, we are called to recognize the God-given dignity of every human person. This truth must guide our response to immigration and to those who come to our communities seeking safety, opportunity, and a better future for their families. Throughout our nation’s history, immigrants have enriched our country, strengthened our communities, and contributed to the common good in countless ways.
At the same time, we acknowledge the responsibility of our nation to maintain secure borders and an orderly immigration system. Human dignity and the rule of law are not competing values. We can both uphold the security of our communities and ensure that those fleeing violence, poverty, and instability are treated with fairness, compassion, and respect. Meaningful immigration reform is needed to address a system that too often creates uncertainty, hardship, and division.
I urge all people of goodwill to reject rhetoric and any action that dehumanizes, scapegoats, or sows fear among our immigrant brothers and sisters. Every person is created in the image and likeness of God, and our public discourse and public policies should reflect that fundamental truth. We must approach one another not as adversaries, but as neighbors, seeking solutions that promote justice, mercy, and the common good.
We should also remember the sobering words of Jesus in Matthew 25:31-46. He reminds us that our salvation is bound up with how we treat those in need: “Whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.” How we receive the stranger, feed the hungry, clothe the naked, and care for the vulnerable is ultimately how we receive and care for Christ himself.
As we continue to show the compassion of Jesus to our immigrant families, we pray for those who face uncertainty and hardship, and work together to build a nation marked by peace, compassion, and hope.
Most Rev. Edward C. Malesic
Bishop of Cleveland
