Archbishop Hebda Says No ICE Enforcement Expected At Christmas Masses

ST. PAUL, MN — Archbishop Bernard Hebda said Tuesday that immigration enforcement actions are not expected at Catholic churches or schools during the Christmas season, addressing fears that have circulated among some immigrant families.

"Local Department of Homeland Security officials have recently reiterated to Archdiocesan representatives that they do not intend to conduct enforcement actions at churches and K-12 schools, unless there is an imminent public safety threat," Hebda said.

"We are unaware of any enforcement actions in our parishes and schools in these past weeks and months and have no reason to believe that will change," he added.

Hebda issued the statement as Catholics prepare to celebrate Christmas, urging calm amid what he described as heightened anxiety and speculation.

"We are at a moment in this country when we need to lower the temperature of rhetoric, stop fear-filled speculation and start seeing all people as created in the image and likeness of God," Hebda said, noting that this applies both to immigrants and to those responsible for enforcing the law.

"For centuries, Catholic churches have been places of refuge, where the old, the young, the rich, the poor, the saint and the sinner can all come together to worship God," he said.

Hebda closed by inviting the public to attend Christmas Masses across the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis.

"Please know that you will be most welcome to worship with us at any of our Catholic parishes this Christmas, to celebrate the birth of the Prince of Peace long ago in Bethlehem, and to reaffirm our ties as brothers and sisters, all children of our loving God," Hebda said. "Blessed Christmas!"

The archbishop’s statement comes amid heightened concern over the impact of immigration enforcement actions on families in Minnesota.

Earlier this week, Dakota County Commissioner Joe Atkins said county social services intervened after four children were reportedly left without a caregiver following a federal immigration enforcement action.

Atkins said the situation underscored the need for clear communication and safeguards to ensure children are not left without support.