The Catholic Coalition for Migrant Justice and the Diocese of Phoenix held a prayer vigil on Oct. 11, where they asked for spiritual aid in achieving migrant justice.

The event was held at the St. Mary’s Basilica and featured speakers who emphasized the Catholic Principles on Migration, which are neither patently conservative or liberal. The event was attended by Bishops Olmsted and Nevares from the Diocese of Phoenix. 

“The most troubling aspect behind the debate on immigration is that we, as Catholics, no longer see the strangers among us as our brothers and sisters in Christ, but only as perhaps thieves or criminals or a means to an end. This is our crisis within,” Bishop Thomas Olmsted said, according to Catholic News. 

The vigil was an important step for the diocese, which is in the heart of the immigration crisis, as Catholics were encouraged to promote the dignity of every immigrant and to support those seeking a brighter future through the Catholic community. 

Readings at the event included the passage of Leviticus 19:34, which states, “The stranger who dwells among you shall be to you as one born among you, and you shall love him as yourself; for you were strangers in the land of Egypt; I am the LORD your God” (New King James Version).

According to Justice for Immigrants, the tenants of the Catholic Church’s principles on immigration are as follows: 

"1) everyone has the right to find economic, political, and social opportunities in his homeland. 

2) The Church recognizes that if someone can’t find a job to support their family in their homeland, they have the right to relocate.

3) The Church recognizes that sovereign nations have the right to secure their borders, but not if their only reason for doing so is financial gain.

4) People who are fleeing wars and persecution should be taken in by the global community.

5) Regardless of an immigrant’s legal status, that person has human dignity and should be treated accordingly.”