Indianapolis Archbishop Thompson Issues Mass Dispensation for Catholics Fearing ICE Immigration Enforcement
The dispensation covers anyone in the Archdiocese of Indianapolis fearing detention or family separation amid heightened ICE activity, regardless of legal documentation status. Archbishop Thompson noted the fear preventing safe attendance, while the Hispanic Ministry canceled its Family Camp.
Catholics utilizing the exemption are encouraged to pray with Sunday scriptural readings, the rosary, or watch live-streamed services.
While missing Mass without grave cause is a mortal sin, dispensations are rare outside of natural disasters or pandemics. Similar measures have been used in other U.S. states, and the Indiana Catholic Conference supported the decision.
Statement on the recent emergence in immigration enforcement
From Archbishop Charles C. Thompson:
The recent surge in immigration enforcement activity in Indiana has caused fear and uncertainty for many families, particularly when detention results in the sudden separation of parents and children.
While recognizing the need for law enforcement to protect and defend, it is gravely concerning to witness families being torn apart. The family, the fabric of stability in our society, must be cherished and defended. The inherent dignity of being created in the image of God demands that every person be treated with dignity, compassion, and respect.
General Decree: Dispensation from the obligation to participate in Mass on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation.
Statement on the recent surge in immigration enforcement :
Archbishop Charles C. Thompson:
The recent surge in immigration enforcement activity in Indiana has caused fear and uncertainty for many families, particularly when detention results in the sudden separation of parents and children.
While recognizing the need for law enforcement to protect and defend, it is gravely concerning to witness families being torn apart. The family, the fabric of stability in our society, must be valued and defended. The inherent dignity of having been created in the image of God demands that every person be treated with dignity, compassion, and respect.
Source:
Statement on the recent emergence in immigration enforcement
From Archbishop Charles C. Thompson:
The recent surge in immigration enforcement activity in Indiana has caused fear and uncertainty for many families, particularly when detention results in the sudden separation of parents and children.
While recognizing the need for law enforcement to protect and defend, it is gravely concerning to witness families being torn apart. The family, the fabric of stability in our society, must be cherished and defended. The inherent dignity of being created in the image of God demands that every person be treated with dignity, compassion, and respect.
General Decree: Dispensation from the obligation to participate in Mass on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation.
Statement on the recent surge in immigration enforcement :
Archbishop Charles C. Thompson:
The recent surge in immigration enforcement activity in Indiana has caused fear and uncertainty for many families, particularly when detention results in the sudden separation of parents and children.
While recognizing the need for law enforcement to protect and defend, it is gravely concerning to witness families being torn apart. The family, the fabric of stability in our society, must be valued and defended. The inherent dignity of having been created in the image of God demands that every person be treated with dignity, compassion, and respect.
Source:
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