The Church & Immigration

[@Forex_Uncovered]

Your brain isn’t small Father Mike! God uses your intellect to bless and feed us every week. May he continue to nourish and sustain your life and ministry

[@vincentescamilla2845]

One thing to add is that when a foreigner enters a new land. The country welcomes the foreigner but the foreigner obeys the laws and assimilate to the country they are seeking refuge in. Everyone is obliged in some way. Thanks Father Mike.

[@gofishglobal7919]

Yes...and, that is actually in our Catechism. In fact, they have a lot of responsibilities.

[@RedKnight-fn6jr]

Totally agree! The video is fair and balanced but yes, assimilation is also a must!

[@matthews1402]

Very true, the immigrant is obligated to assimilate. Not lose their unique cultural identity, but at the very least learn the language and laws of their adopted country. For starters, that means immigrate legally. This isn’t too much to ask or expect.

[@Scynthescizor]

@@matthews1402 I fail to see how someone can assimilate into a culture without losing part of their unique cultural identity. That's just part of the trade, you compromise your culture to the extent it conflicts with the host culture. Language and laws are bare minimum requirements, among others... like clothing, national loyalty, flags, food, holidays, songs, music, arts, architecture, etc. Multiculturalism doesn't work well for a host nation, so I think it could rightly insist upon a unified culture for the good of its citizens.

[@TrontaviousKatarina]

@@Scynthescizor Well the thing with America is that the culture is unique because there is not only one culture. Its a beautiful culmination of multiple cultures, Irish, German, Mexican, Asian, etc.

[@michaelmcevoy5282]

GREAT VIDEO FATHER. IT'S A DIFFICULT SUBJECT AND YOU HANDLED WELL 😆🕇❤

[@PreppyPrincess777]

Michael McEvoy he really did do an excellent job 💕💕💕

[@88kingofhearts88]

Yeah he did really good.

[@bellasbane]

I say shame on Father Mike for mixing up charity with social justice and giving religious cover to self-serving right-wing conservatives. While charity and social justice are not mutually exclusive, they certainly are NOT the same thing, nor are they a replacement for one another. The middle class in this nation can provide charity to their neighbors, but it requires the power of the state to enforce JUSTICE - including SOCIAL JUSTICE. This starts by making the wealthiest Americans pay their fair share of taxes, so that as a nation, we can fund programs that provide equal opportunity for economic prosperity and social mobility to all - including asylum seekers from foreign lands. Both Scripture and Tradition emphasize that getting rich through capital gains (usury) leads to depravity, whereas earning money through one's labor builds character. The current tax code is sinful in the way it rewards usury and punishes labor. Finally, priests with public profiles like Father Mike need to grow a backbone and call out the lies Trump is telling the American public about the refugees at the border. It is a grave evil to scapegoat desperate and marginalized people and use innocent children as pawns to gain concessions on immigration policy. It is a direct attack on human life and dignity that is worse than abortion, because it has the coercive power of the state behind it.

[@poetlover30]

bellasbane Which is Exactly the reason why priests don't get involved in politics- If he did start saying something about Trump & Immigration in a more political arena - Who would listen?? Bishops are stepping up but it's not like many of them (politicians) are listening... Yet they are doing they're best to reunite families so that's a good thing...

[@RanMouri82]

@@poetlover30 Priests should stay out of politics because their role is to offer the Sacraments and teach and guide us in Christ Jesus. The proper role of the laity is to apply the wisdom from Our Lord to our social problems. That's why it's important for us to put the Gospel first and become informed about these complex situations, rather than assuming those who disagree with us are bad or don't care.

[@alt_warn4211]

“It is quite legitimate for nations to treat their differences as a sacred inheritance and guard them at all costs.” - Pope Pius XII

[@stephenferry3017]

He goes on to say, "The wise development, the encouragement within limits, of that genius, those qualities, does no harm; and if a nation cares to take precautions, to lay down rules, for that end, it has the Church's approval. She is mother enough to befriend such projects with her prayers provided that they are not opposed to the duties incumbent on men from their common origin and shared destiny."

[@EuropeanQoheleth]

Doesn't say that immigration is bad.

[@rafaelwilks]

Venerable Pius XII never said anybody had any obligation to guard differences among nations at all costs, meaning legitimate costs of course. He just said it was legitimate, not required, because, obviously, he knew such differences are merely earthly and temporal, and, as such, are inherently inferior to spiritual concerns.

[@Manu-zk5dk]

@@Peace-ht7fp So it was bad for black people to go to the same places than whited in Soth Africa, when the apartheid took place???? Because it was illegal...

[@creationetrenouveau612]

@@EuropeanQoheleth Nation is a racial concept.

[@madisonconger1015]

Hey Father! I love all the input you have to give to those, like myself, who look for answers. I’m only 19, but I learn a lot from your videos! Keep up the great work for the Lord

[@jamz3243]

Yeah, Learn that you should read more about philosophy rather than this guy's nonage Learn that we really should be studying more about things like communism and how karl marx and Jesus weren't that different. (Reminder: Karl Marx WASN'T the one who killed a bunch of people. That was Stalin.) The idea of the free market and that charity will solve all our woes is silly. Just go down town man and talk to the homeless people, ask them how many people turn their heads and how many people ignore them. I have and I was surprised. Its also how I learned about the importance of anarchism. Charity doesn't work. Literally. You, this preist, and I could sing till the cows come home but at the end of the day, rich people don't stay rich if they help all the needy people. We can ask nicely and yes even advocate for political change for the government to be more humane and christian but the rich will stop at nothing to remain their affluent life styles.

[@Funny-vv3in]

Amen 😊

[@IVORY123100]

I happen to be a carpenter " construction " ..I work on the low end of the totem pole .. A country that is prosperous ?? .. perhaps some .. I have watch my wages decline throughout the years and I am being fast tracked to homelessness " Been there before " .. I see others that come across the border and make more than me .. I get a taxed check and they get an envelop of cash.. So I am being put at a disadvantage for this great social experiment .. I was furious when a bishop suggested that a canonical penalty be used for anyone that was against massive immigration .. Good way to turn away from American Catholics .. I am for immigration . I believe in helping the less fortunate .. But where is the limit ?? or is there one ? I marvel that The Vatican has walls and I am sure I can't claim asylum if I scale the walls .. Another thing that confounds me .. Is how can many Catholics be party with Democrats .. The party of abortion .? In a way .. religion is now being injected into politics .. Perhaps The Catholic Church encourages Catholics from Central America to fill the pews and Democrats want to fill the ballot box .... I think we are all confused .. including the clergy .. Isn't there a verse where you are instructed to take care of the house ?? .. I even go so far as to wonder .. The Church is fully onboard with this .. Lose a few American Catholics and gain many more as the replacements .. .. All I ask Catholic Church ... Will you be there for me when I am left homeless ?

[@princezion556]

Nope and America wasnt founded on false ideology of catholism they fleed England because of the church and they founded it on true Christianity which is freedom in worship and direct connection with the Father through the Son Jesus, Call no other man Father but God

[@frafraplanner9277]

@@princezion556 The "true Christianity" which was just discovered in the 16th century? You mean not the church that Christ himself founded in 33AD?

[@vladthe3rd414]

Your owned nothing but the dirt on your feet and air in your lungs … if you can’t at least put a roof over your head, even thought you were born with the advantage of being in 1st world, then you deserve to be homeless … if a immigrant can make it then you have no excuse, only pitiful whining and self loathing … imagine if all the settlers came to the new world and sat on the beaches just moping and crying that all of society wasn’t already built by the time they got there … if that happened you wouldn’t have anything that they built with their blood sweat and tears to take for granted … toughen up princess, no one in the world is here to save you, No politician, no church, no one but yourself

[@mazulazul9208]

Thank you father for the great advice. I was born in Mexico and this touches me to the core.I believe that it's a gift from GOD we all have. Those who accept it will lead their lives accordingly. Yet those who truly accept it have a life of thinking beyond ........

[@jacobaguirre11]

I’m a Catholic who lives in a boarder State (Texas) right by the boarder. Your view on immigration is perfect and just how I feel. Thank you Father, God bless you.

[@dylanrunner2001]

border

[@juvenalcardona4698]

One can't steal lands from Mexico and then prevent the very people who return to there ancestral and religious lands . Since they shall not steal is part of God's 10 commandments.

[@Frodo7241]

Father, can you please do a video on how to deal with beggars on the street. This is so hard to deal with as I want to help but it is often uncomfortable or I try helping and then they just keep asking for more and I can only give so much. what am I to do I want to love these people.

[@Nug12b]

Frodo7241 I don't always have something to give either. One thing I noticed about those who have not, is they would much rather have a conversation, looked at in the eyes, and treated like a human being, rather then our money. The things I have learned, the stories each one has... You can't find that out, by handing out a 5 dollar bill out your car window. Sometimes just a smile, hug and caring ear can do so much more. 😉💜💜💜

[@gnome2024]

Great question. Patrick Madrid covered this a few months ago on his radio show and I liked his answer. He said one idea would be to make little goodie bags instead of handing out money. You could include little things like toothbrush, mini tube of toothpaste, a writing pad, some pencils or pens and maybe a protein bar. Heck my dentist gives out some of this stuff to me every teeth cleaning. I ask him for extras and I give them out to the homeless.

[@Nug12b]

John Dough love that Idea. 💜💜💜I always keep my earthquake supply of water in my van, so I always have water. I hand out waters a lot. Everyone needs to be Hydrated. 🤗

[@Frodo7241]

John Dough one idea I am thinking of is I live on an urban college campus that is open and has homeless people. Next semester I am going to trying always carrying granola bars with me.

[@Frodo7241]

jackie nappi I want to talk to them but I am very risk averse and not good at entering conversations let alone with people who may not speak very well. Maybe I am just making excuses but your comment is exactly what I want to do sometimes but I am often afraid to because I fear then they will just start asking me to buy them everything. One time I tried helping a lady, she asked me to buy her some food and so I did and then she asked If I could buy her daughter some personal items, cover her medical costs, etc. And I just firmly said no I cant do that. Then I got all upset because even the poor are greedy sometimes and my charity at that moment certainly lacked love.

[@VeronicaMxoxo]

I love how you handled this issue from a totally Christian viewpoint. Too many get caught up in party politics and forget to simply ask what Christ would do this situation. We all do need to use our gifts to help others as you mentioned. 💛

[@ednday]

Thank you for interpreting the CCC correctly...and recognizing the balance between immigration, sovereignty and charity. We need this guidance.

[@stephenferry3017]

As opposed to?

[@stephenferry3017]

We have this guidance. The USCCB has been giving it for years.

[@vglisawedgeworth4022]

Love you Father. In a complex and fractious world it is even more important to be guided by mercy and principles so that we may work to find logical and thoughtful answers together. Thanks Father.

[@PK-zb6wh]

I know you said we are a wealthy country, and we are to a point, but look at the debt our country has. and the debt individuals in this country has. we may just not be as rich as we pretend we are. However, we have immigration policies in place, we take millions of refugees in every year from all over the world, we have people come on work visas/student visas, we take in many each year that just want to come here, there is a lottery some countries have and those folks get to come here, etc. The numbers rushing our border illegally are not simply refugees and I expect you know that. But you did a great job explaining the Catholic Church teaching on it and also encouraging people to voluntarily be charitable. thanks!

[@loosilu]

We are the wealthiest country on earth. We do NOT take in millions of refugees. In 2022, we took in only 25,465 refugees per year. Our current law makes it extremely difficult for people to immigrate, which is stupid. We have a labor shortage crisis in the US, and the immigration laws mean that if we want enough workers, they MUST come here illegally. Focusing on the immigrants is what fascist regimes do in order to distract people. What we actually need to do is reform the laws so that people can LEGALLY enter to do the work we desperately need.

[@nariko47]

Thank you for your input on this Father, I can relate to it as a immigrant from Chile and a Catholic. God bless you ~

[@Patz3eb]

Great summary of church teaching! Agree! But cant stand those that use the generosity of Christians as a political tool. Complex issue!

[@tomasveras2175]

Your generosity should move politics not the other way

[@SalwanJBinni]

Very logical and beautifully balanced, with a special faith-based blessing..

[@ACatholicMomsLife]

Beautiful! Thank you for saying this so clearly and pure of heart!

[@thomasmaddox8688]

I love that distinction between what we owe and what we should do. Charity, by its very definition, is not something that is owed, it is something that is freely given, not for justice but rather for love.

[@patiencechiles640]

Fr. Mike, thank you for this video. This is a difficult issue that I have been trying to get my head and heart around, and you’ve helped me with that. Thanks for all you do, and God bless you!

[@l.s.8201]

Things all Catholics should bear in mind regarding immigration: - Saint Thomas Aquinas opposed it, saying it greatly disrupted the host nation. - The Church allows nations to reject any immigrant that they believe threatens their safety. - Pope John Paul II condemned all illegal immigration.

[@charcharles144]

This pope doesn't, though, he promotes it, to Italy's detriment. (Thanks to a new far-right Italian president, 1000 illegals got turned away and had to go back to Libya by boat. Another one with 600+on board was also refused to dock, and Spain accepted only them but now say ' no more'. Why didn't Father Mike mention your points? I think because they are too 'radical'? Thanks for the facts.

[@rafaelwilks]

Saint Thomas Aquinas wasn't infallible, you know.

[@Limonadememe4231]

Not that I wouldn’t believe you, that could be please cite some quotes, for each point?

[@TheMoonfam5]

Pope JPII condemned illegal immigration, he did not condemn those immigrants as bad people.

[@lifemaverick6427]

Very well said Father with words of wisdom and reason in addressing such a sensitive topic. I totally agree that as Christians we certainly have a responsibility to open our arms and extend a warm invitation to immigrants who wish to establish themselves within our communal ‘family’ as a nation. I also firmly believe that we should provide a fertile environment for immigrants to allow them to preserve and protect their culture. I also think that immigrants who come to inhabit and prosper within our nation, while preserving their culture, should also be naturally inclined to embrace and practice our values; particularly of liberty and freedom. I also very strongly agree with the second principle that as a nation we also have the responsibility of protecting the interests of our communal family. I think we need to become very aware of immigrants who bring with them and promote ideologies which oppose the very foundation of our values of tolerance, liberty and freedom. The very values which have allowed us to prosper into a great nation capable of extending our wealth to other nations and immigrants.

[@noneyabusiness6957]

We have a lot of people struggling in this country to keep a roof over their head and food in their stomachs....We need to help our citizens and fix our country before we can help out others...We can’t help if were in need of help ourselves

[@SouthwestNewsToday]

Why do the political parties in America blame the other party for not doing anything meaningful on immigration reform while creating problems at the US-Mexico border, such as the National Guard shooting three migrants, rather than create an infrastructure that welcomes the migrants, the strangers, and helps them integrate into an American way of life? The answer is simple: the Republican party, the party that likes to scream we are being invaded and that the Democrats have done nothing to secure the border, failed to act in 2017. The Republican Party retained its majority in the House and the Senate with Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, 2017. Why didn’t they, the Republicans, enact stronger immigration laws? Or change the law on asylum that says those seeking asylum must be in the United States, legally or illegally, and have a year upon entry to the US to claim asylum? The answer is simple. What is happening along the Southern US border is a great fundraiser for both parties. While those million-dollar campaign checks are being chased, enriching politicians, the migrants are left to suffer, and Jesus wouldn’t like that one bit.

[@loosilu]

Great, what have you done to support programs to help the poor? Oh wait, you're GoP. You slash every program to help the poor.

[@AnneMRast]

“…obliged, TO THE EXTENT THEY ARE ABLE.” We CANNOT help EVERYONE and we had a RESPONSIBILITY to protect our people and monitor who is entering.

[@glopez4919]

Thank you Fr. Mike, indeed a difficult subject. Glad u tackled it with charity and grace. It's hard for some ppl to understand since they not in a position to make extreme decisions as to weather get killed in ur own country or break another country's laws but live. That's what those mothers have to face. So Christianity is tested. I ask what would God do? I think it's a simple answer.

[@davidmcneely2116]

Fr Mike gives me how to be a better person Thank You!! 🙏🙏

[@TheJoyoftheFaith]

By far the best video any Catholic priest has made on the topic. Great job Fr. Mike!!

[@nathalieloujein5959]

Father Mike, please give a little talk or video online about the persecution of Christians in Muslim countries. Let us know what the Bible or the Catholic Church says about what to do to sovereign countries who persecute Christians. Rewrite: 'What is to be done about the persecution of Christians in sovereign countries?'

[@bluehorseshoe444]

whataboutism at it's finest... Hannity has taught you well.

[@charcharles144]

bluehorseshoe444 : I think it's rather the Islamic State that has taught us all well, hasn't it? By the way, how many Christians died in Churches in Egypt last year due to extremist groups? Did you not see the blood in those churches? GO ask Hannity, since you reference him. Why don't you look up persecution of the Egyptian Copts (who are Christians, but maybe you didn't know that) for starters. Then, you can look up how many Christians were in Iraq when Saddam Hussein was president of Iraq, and how many are left now over there.

[@itsOculus]

Syria treats her Christians well. As does Lebanon.

[@marilyncutler07]

OMG Father, now that's a tough one for you to answer, but you did well with the first one!

[@sarahsheikh9151]

I love watching these videos and am grateful for the work that father Mike does. However, Nathalie Loujein that is exactly what I wanted to say to father. Thank you for summarizing it so clearly and so well. I speak from having visited and stayed in many states across the US several times and coming from a third world country... The homelessness (drug addiction, begging and more signs of poverty) I saw was shocking for a prosperous nation. I think Utah that decisively tackled and solved the problem of homelessness over a few years of strategic planning is allowed to have a say;) . I hope The USA always stays free and beautiful. :)

[@loria81]

Thank you for providing these principals, Father. I really like the idea of balancing both the heart and the mind. Difficult issue. Excellent input!

[@marietaylor4468]

Thanks for adding clarity, Fr Mike. Seems like a guest worker program would do a lot - helping people who are less fortunate, helping industries that need workers & ensuring fair treatment. Hopefully it would reduce the number of false asylum claims and prioritize those who truly need it. There also needs to be a distinction between legal vs illegal immigrants.

[@donaldgrimshaw]

Thank you for defining the principles of such a complex issue. In an ideal situation all Christians would join in Brotherhood to care for the poor unfortunately the need is great but the volunteers are few. Without government intervention Millions would be left out in the cold.

[@Realidyne]

Thank you, Fr. Mike. You speak of what my heart has been saying. I can't imagine the extreme circumstances that would give me little choice but to pack up my family and leave my homeland - all that I've ever known and loved. We need to pray for our poor brothers and sisters that they may find peace, generosity, kindness and mercy.

[@jorgecampos5223]

Dear Fr. Mike, it is a friendly approach you are sharing; this is not an easy issue, it is quite complex, since every single case is different, so according to these principles, each one of us has to discern what to do when we face such circumstance, there is not an easy answer, but depending of the circumstances and following these principles, asking advice to discern what to do to the Holy Spirit, I am sure everyone will take the right decision. It is always great to listen to you.!!

[@joyyoung3319]

THANKS for speaking what the Catholic Church speaks. This is VERY MUCH NEEDED to be said in this day and age. God Bless.

[@lj0129]

Thank you for your insight on this issue. I especially liked how you said that it was not the government's job to do certain tasks. I really think we need to prioritize that in this country and to make it our own individual responsibility instead to care for those who need help. I would like to hear more about your opinion of what the role of government is and how a society of athiests and socialists influences the role. Thank you for your time and energy.

[@katefernandes1632]

Very bold. Very true. God be with you Father.

[@existentialexplorations4900]

Sound Christian thinking on immigration. Thank you Father Mike.

[@melissapotts1434]

LOL at "Thanks for throwing me a softball". And all the other silly comments along those l lines. I really enjoy your videos and others on this channel. You make such great points and are clearly led by God. I've been binge watching for weeks now.

[@anneyoung1298]

This country is the most open and generous in the world. However, that doesn't mean we should be open wide to the other foreign criminals that mean only to come here and harm those people that would otherwise be very welcoming. Close the border and welcome the stranger legally and vetted. We have to protect the citizens already here and the new ones that mean no harm and just want a better life.

[@bella1975]

Thank you father Mike. I love how you stressed to treat all living beings in God's likeness as we would our own brothers and sisters because, really that does matter.

[@rae-michellel6878]

Thank you Father Mike! Your response is the best one I’ve heard and I couldn’t agree more.

[@jenniferwinston7842]

Oh for goodness sakes! From the standpoint of the Republican voter, what he just said is exactly what we stand for. Conservatives recognize the difference between an illegal immigrant and someone seeking asylum. We are simply tired of individuals coming to our country who hate us! Who hate our values and our system of government and refuse to even learn English! Perhaps we should talk about the other side of that Christian fence! Yes we will be charitable but we are not obliged to be doormats for people who come here and wanting to destroy our government, and take advantage of our good nature. That's the Crux of the matter. With that said, everything father Mike just said is spot-on. We don't need the government to take care of the poor. Thank you Father Mike

[@kid_dracosodmg6738]

Im not exactly sure what you mean

[@donnaivy9506]

It made me think of all those Amercans who did not value our system of government who stormed the Capitol smashing and attacking Capitol police.. . I am trying to figure out what kind of fences Jesus made?? go out to all nations...

[@janihe]

Thank you so much Father. God bless

[@michaelahlin5223]

Thank you! Straight forward Catholic teaching. Need more Priests to talk just like that. God Bless

[@kristinagochnour3131]

Great video. I too feel like the situation is far too polarized. What a great reminder!

[@connie2286]

Great answer for this difficult issue . Thank you Father Mike !

[@andrewangelopacheco9960]

St. John Paul the Great said this in Laguna Seca California on Mexican immigration, , "God did not make any specific area in this world for any particular race. Each individual has the God given right to live on God's world where he pleases." Before the arrival of Europeans in Notrh and South America, there were no borders. Now Natives are prohibited to walk and work on their own land. This is injustice!

[@RanMouri82]

It would seem the takeaway from your words and the quotes you shared, Father, is that we are called to love our neighbor and be generous and welcoming, but also to protect ourselves.

[@Scynthescizor]

I know this video is a few years old, but I fear that the prosperity of our nation, while still great, is running on fumes. Multiculturalism, along with a liberal egalitarian worldview, has sowed dangerous seeds in our country. Our leaders' failure to require immigrants to assimilate, failure to discriminate appropriately as to who is allowed in, failure to ensure the well-being of citizens over those seeking citizenship, and failure to secure and protect the national border have all contributed to a slow and steady decline in national cohesion, trust, empathy, cultural identity, sense of rootedness, and pride in nation. Father Mike is absolutely right in stating the principles that Catholics are bound to, but I fear the practical applications mentioned are possibly naive. The prosperity of our nation is precarious, the way we approach immigration is not fully consistent with Catholic teaching, the role of the government or state is not properly appreciated (robust care for the poor often requires much more than individual action), and principles of mercy are being overextended to the detriment of justice (the nation's obligation to first look after the good of its own citizens). Our nation has many problems beyond poor immigration policy, but I think this issue is going to become increasingly pressing, especially as people crave order, tradition, stability, common-culture, rootedness, family lineage, and so forth, all of which are presently collapsing into chaos. We Catholics need to well consider these basic human needs lest we see the rise of a far-right paganism that is primarily tribal and antithetical to helping our neighbors.

[@PapaMist]

Extremely well written. The clergy/church leadership lack any vision or coherent solutions that could be palliatives to the problems posed by mass immigration and the resultant social fallout which is only accelerating as people are abandoning the faith for secular and more assertive/aggressive moralistic ideologies that peddle actionable and simple solutions (regardless of how falsifiable they may be). At the rate things are going tradition, trust, and public order will reach a critical impasse and American will be splintered. The future will be ethnic ghettoes and quarantined zones divided by clans of differing cultures and aristocratic hierarchies within them. That's all just my speculation of course, based on historical trends. I would also add that state power and control has almost unanimously usurped all social functions that used to be fulfilled by religious and fraternal organizations. So calling for more government intervention is still the wrong thing to do, since government has perverted and monopolized all social spheres of human action and association, especially democratic (non-monarchical) ones. CCC 2241 need to be seriously updated in wording. It's laughable that some vague concept of "economic" prosperity is considered the metric by which a nation is obliged to welcome millions of refugees and prevent deportation. As if financial wealth, or GDP, was the only parameter of the well-being and social stability of a nation. A ludicrous and libertarian talking-point if I've ever seen one. Greed and envy is the motivating factors here for immigrants, otherwise they would settle in Mexico or a plethora of other countries not in civil war.

[@senjan8782]

Father wonderful message. Are we talking about the Legal immigration or illegal immigration. This Prosperous nation welcomes whole hearty when people come legally. God bless America.

[@ghostlyimageoffear6210]

Numbers are too high for legal immigration.

[@DanUtley]

And this is exactly why I’ve abandoned any political party / label. As a Catholic, you really have no home in either party if you try to faithfully apply the Faith to the issues we face.

[@regularguy8801]

Point of interest. The U.S. is the most generous nation on earth, both in charity, and in immigration. We simply ask that our laws be respected. Come in LEGALLY, and embrace THIS country FULLY (that means no waving of foreign flags, voting in foreign elections, or suckling the welfare teet) do that, and anyone is more than welcome.

[@nathalieloujein5959]

Officially, foreign flags are allowed if they are lower in position to the US flag, as on a flagpole. I don't know the protocol about 'waving' foreign flags, as in hand-held flags. I would assume that the US flag needs to be waved also. About voting in foreign elections...The US allows, by law, dual citizenship. (It is written in the text of the US passport itself.) That means that naturalized US citizens can also keep their original nationalities if that nationality allows it. The rule for that is as follows: The naturalized US citizen is considered a US citizen while in the US. The naturalized US citizen, unless he or she has given up his or her original citizenship, is regarded as still that citizenship when in that country. That means that legally, a naturalized US citizen can vote in US elections, and in foreign elections. Unless the laws change, voting in foreign elections is fully legal for naturalized US citizens.

[@nathalieloujein5959]

One can be invested more in US interests while voting abroad--Vote for the foreign president most likely to be favorable to the US and US interests!

[@nette9836]

I agree with all points except the flag. I'll wave my American and Polish flag as much as I please.

[@regularguy8801]

Waving a foreign flag to me is a symptom of a deeper issue. I'm not Irish American, I am just American. I wave our flag, our unifying banner, because my allegiance is to this country....our country. I don't like the idea of diversity being a strength. ( Root word of diversity is divide) I think celebrating what we have in common as a strength. Just one more point of interest. If I begged Mexico to let me in, and they did, would it be acceptable for me to wave the American flag in protest of the Mexican government?

[@nette9836]

See, my allegiance is also to America first and foremost but that does not negate the fact that as a Polish-American (and I am personally proud of that and will boast it) I am thrilled at Poland's successes and disturbed by their failures (e.g. the recent free speech curb law). As per diversity, it actually has much more nuanced meaning other than the root word when you get into Latin and older language structures but I'll let you check that out because I could write a novel on it. :p And finally, as per your prompt on waving an American flag protesting Mexico, could you clarify your meaning further? I'm concerned I might be missing the overall question and don't want to answer improperly. :D

[@TheCliftonclan]

My biggest question is this. If we are able to manage our borders properly and effectively prevent the bad eggs from getting in then, it becomes possible to help more of the good and, the innocent.

[@almamembrila1511]

Thank you Father Mike, exactly my feelings and thoughts put into words.

[@juaneeobonilla9811]

Wait till Jesus comes ...there will be no borders...and such a word will be extinct....blessings to all my brothers and sisters in Christ 😍..viva cristo rey!!

[@Rbreaux87]

Good to see this subject making a place on the Ascension Presents video roster..

[@shannonengelken4629]

That was a beautiful explanation to a very complex problem! Thank you so much, Father Mike!

[@visionariomanchego8782]

“Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. For... I was a stranger and you did not invite me in" Mt 25, 41.43

[@GinnyandEric]

You do such a great job of posting about current topics!

[@planetablog5504]

Great words father! Helping them is forcing them back all we all gonna be in a very bad situation soon! Economically, socially and culturally l.... Americans fought for their country in the past, they must do the same and prosper not taking other people's accomplishments.... American is a language and culture developed along the years and it should not be changed!

[@donnaivy9506]

I am thinking of all the Native Americans who were swallowed up by foreign cultures. Cultures change, people change and we are a land of many cultures...change should always be for the good

[@GiovannaAguilar]

Wonderful reminder of how we have to follow our hearts and share in our responsibility.

[@JorgeLopez-yb1ct]

Keep in mind, you can be pro-immigrant and anti-illegal immigrant

[@Mrpargmatic]

Asylum seekers do not have a home to return to, unlike any other immigrant from around the world it’s a desire where as asylum seekers are looking for security. Big difference. Heaven forbid anyone should feel so desperate.

[@drfye]

I think a distinction needs to be made about private sponsorship which is what a lot of parishes do which also helps settle and integrate the famlies into communities vs the government shotgunning unvetted people into public housing causing ghetto's and crime.

[@MinnowCreekGirl]

Thank you for speaking about this issue. Some of my Catholic friends and family really need to watch this video until they get it. There are some very cold hearted peole in this world.

[@blak3ev3ritt]

Outstanding Father Mike! Thank you!

[@donnaivy9506]

I would hope that guarding our differences would indicate a right to protect us from violent aggression....different than closing a door on those seeking help

[@dianecarozza6436]

This was really good For Mike!!!Thx you

[@revelution3658]

BOOM FATHER MIKE IS KILLIN IT!

[@MELOMEL95]

Good point on using the head AND the heart. There’s always a way for both.

[@darktruth2358]

I'm not into 7 billion people coming in. I'm not for immigration lotteries, chain migration. I'm all for merit-based immigration. Immigration with rational numbers, procedures, and ... you know... getting in line.

[@goldgabich6863]

I agree, I might also add people who share American values and are willing to assimilate

[@kimfleury]

If 7 billion people come in, that leaves a lot of open real estate to take over. j.s.

[@gregorymalchuk272]

Dark Truth I am in favor of severe immigration restrictions, and total ban on immigration from the third world.

[@Trini2DeBone]

7 billion ppl do not want to come in. I don't live in the US and I definitely do not want to live there either.

[@donnaivy9506]

is that like how we get into heaven?? merit based?? oh heaven will be empty! we will certainly be on a line! how long can we wait??

[@karolynnnye3083]

Great video Father. I try to stay out of politics as well. Complicated.

[@gladyscompere9392]

Well said father Mike and ❤❤❤🙏🙏🙏

[@dawnb7972]

I've sponsored 3 children in Ghana and Ecuador. They were able to go to school, have meals and acquire animals and programs for the families. Help people in their own countries to prosper. Stop dangerous border crossings and sex trades!!!

[@Julie_Rios]

Thank you so much, Fr. Mike. Well done. That Catholic Couple also talked about this at length & it hits closer to them. Indeed, the Church would never support illegal immigration, but at the same time, it wants fellow human beings being treated with respected & not dehumanized. Sadly, many don't do that. These are human beings being used as pawns on both sides of the political spectrum.

[@kerwinfernandes9583]

Great View!! God Bless!! :) Just love what yall are doing on this channel ..its so helpful for my personal growth! and m able to direct other too to this channel!

[@skodovkar]

I live in Europe and I think that help should be provided where needed. Build wells, establish food production, education and some self sustaining social hierarchy at the very place. People should not leave their families and risk their life just to end up in a street gang or being dependant on financial support. It is a well known wide way to he** paved by good intentions. So I am for help, for a real help.

[@gaiagolisciani4522]

here in Italy we would really need a priest like you in the critical situation we have, in terms of immigration

[@RG615]

Difficult...but wow....well said father Mike. God bless.

[@DaleGriggsMinistry]

Hey Mike, I like watching your videos... even as a baptist so, don’t tell anyone... I thought this video was a great explanation. Loved it. I could tell you had a tough time with this one as I have in talking to people here on Long Island.

[@joestalin5438]

The argument should prefaced with and make the distinction as to whether the immigrants are legally or illegally entering the country.. To conflate the two is not merely disengenuous but deceitful.

[@DonaldKolenda]

Well said, Fr. Mike. A very sensitive topic, but you navigated it very well!

[@tomstika6236]

Thanks Father, really appreciate the topic and presentation on it.

[@plattyplatt]

Do a talk on violence in video games and movies and the morality in viewing/playing it or not. Thanks!

[@richj1s125]

Open boarders allows for hostilities to follow and enter in.

[@bluehorseshoe444]

Can you name a single politician who has ever been in favor of open 'boarders' or borders for that matter?

[@kimfleury]

And while you're answering the above, point to the minute:second that Father Mike says Christian principle demands open borders.

[@kevintracey8062]

Asylum is one thing, illegal immigrants who think their entitled to enter our country and take advantage of our welfare system and our health care is a whole different matter. Also our borders are a joke,heartless or not we need a wall! And as far as my siblings are concerned I am the oldest of 11 children and any thing we have and it's not much we worked for. And my brothers and sisters weather blood related or not are in this country weather they be Black or Hispanic or any other ethnic groups,they are the one's that I'm obligated to. Kevin Tracey,

[@rafaelwilks]

😂

[@southernbella8503]

Wonderful, video, Father! I really appreciate how you dealt with this issue.

[@mrsandmom5947]

Thank you Father..for confirming what I have felt.

[@debraleslie3131]

Beautiful...love your message...Portland Oregon

[@maryellengrayberg9146]

Well said Father. It it's a complicated issue. My concern is we need to help our people here. Also, if you can not speak speak our language how can they find work? We can not give social services and social security to those who can not provide for themselves. So going with your theory of Christians helping Christians is that actually a workable solution. Other countries mandate that you should be trained and or self supporting before you are approved.

[@donnaivy9506]

Christians helping Christians?? i thought all people were God's people...therefore one family ...all brother's and sisters

[@tjgetz7052]

This is the most sound and balance point of view on the immigrant issue

[@erickmartinez312]

Great video God bless I have you all in my prayers hope you all have a great day/night ❤️🙏🏽

[@nickboyko1017]

But wait it was never the intention of those who want secure boarders to keep people out. We want it legal. --this doesn’t seem to acknowledge that fact.

[@MegaMackproductions]

I'd argue there are many (including myself) who feel we've had enough immigration and should take the time to assimilate those who have entered or swiftly deport those who refuse to join into the nation. I think that it would also be quite prudent to cease immigration from nations which are being destroyed by the removal of their more intelligent few and allow those nations time to develop.

[@Mrpargmatic]

There is a difference between immigration, illegal immigrants and asylum seekers. The latter’s is so disruptive that they can’t return. That is what makes this a difficult Christian challenge of the heart.

[@lordhonksworth7701]

If you ask for legal immigration, your government will just bring in millions of Chinese and Indians

[@WeirdEducator]

You presented the issue well, Fr. Mike, but I think you inadvertently undermined the role of the government. The government does have a role in addressing structural issues. Now, that doesn’t let us as individuals off the hook: It’s all about the principle of subsidiarity. And while I take great joy in your presentation of this issue as being one that needs both the head and the heart, I do have to express concern about how people in your community- Duluth, Minnesota- behaves at a recent Trump rally. What do you say to those people, some of whom may be in your parish? Civility and reason and compassion are going the way of the dodo in this country. Once again, thank you for your video. I appreciate that you cited the Catechism!

[@vincentriggs711]

. He says he doesn't get involved in politics and then dives into borders and immigration.

[@Jackson58306]

Thanks for the reminder. I've got to step up my game.

[@BloodhawkProductions]

Beautiful! Awesome! Amazing job fr Mike!

[@JoseSalazar-pl7mn]

Ezekiel 22:30 I look for a man among them who will build a wall of righteousness that that guards the land. I I search for someone to stand… But I found no one. Isaiah 6:8 then I heard the voice of the Lord ask, “whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” And I said, “here am I. Send me!” Habakkuk 2:1 I will stand up on my guard post and station myself upon the tower, and will watch to see what the Lord will say to me… Matthew 21:13 … “It is written: my house will be called a house of prayer.” Mark 3:27 No one can enter into a strong man’s house… Luke 11:21 When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own house, his possessions are safe.

[@powerliftingcentaur]

For once, a quote from the catechism actually makes sense and proves relevant. This video is you at your finest, Fr. Mike. Thank you.

[@ernestbianco1561]

Well put Fr., It's about time a priest spoke out clearly on the subject. To bad it's not the Bishops.

[@jesusromo5077]

Yea, this what ill probably talk about in my poli sci class. Thanks this is really helpful

[@EricZierdt]

I agree with your thoughts and I think the sticking point is "...to the extent that they are able" according to government statistics 43.7 million immigrants resided in the United States in 2016, and in 2016, 1.49 million foreign-born individuals moved to the United States...so the US has set a number that we feel we are able to support on an annual basis. We are allowing immigrants in. What does the church say about people who feel that they deserve to enter the country without obtaining legal status ...you've talked about the countries responsibility, what about the individual, do they have the right to break in?

[@stevehathorn6486]

The debate surrounding illegal immigration is not about "2nd Coats" but about agencies who want to make money off the transfer of that "2 Coat". Catholic Charities, Lutheran Charities, the Prorogation of the Faith, and many others are rewarded handsomely for facilitating the movement of dollars/services from one group to the other.

[@davidiancrux]

If my brother is breaking the law, it’s my duty to refer him to the authorities and afterward help him out of the situation that caused him to break the law.