June 13, 2025: In an unexpected move that’s sending ripples through both political and religious circles, the first U.S. bishop appointed under Pope Leo XIV has publicly denounced the revival of harsh immigration enforcement policies, urging Catholic institutions to offer sanctuary and legal support to migrants at risk of deportation.

Bishop Andrés Salgado, a Mexican-American prelate known for his grassroots activism, was appointed just five months ago to lead the Archdiocese of El Paso—a region sitting at the heart of the ongoing U.S.–Mexico border crisis. His appointment by Pope Leo, a pontiff widely seen as a reformer with a global human rights vision, was hailed by many as a signal of the Church’s evolving stance on migration.

But few expected the bishop to act so boldly—and so soon.

“We cannot remain silent while families are torn apart in our streets and parishes,” Bishop Salgado said during a packed Sunday homily, which was livestreamed to thousands. “The Gospel calls us not to obey unjust laws, but to stand with the oppressed—no matter what it costs us.”

His remarks come just days after the reinstatement of several Trump-era immigration protocols, including fast-tracked deportations, ICE workplace raids, and a controversial expansion of migrant detention centers—policies criticized by human rights groups and immigrant advocates alike.

Bishop Salgado’s address was more than symbolic. He unveiled a “Sanctuary Initiative” across Texas and New Mexico, encouraging Catholic schools, churches, and shelters to coordinate legal aid, food programs, and emergency housing for undocumented migrants. He also pledged Church legal teams to assist in asylum cases pro bono.

White House officials have not yet responded to the bishop’s remarks. However, political analysts suggest this move could escalate tensions between conservative lawmakers and the Catholic Church—especially given the Church’s influence in swing states with large Latino populations.

Some critics have accused the bishop of politicizing the pulpit, but many in his diocese say he's simply fulfilling a spiritual duty.

“He’s not being political,” said María Robles, a parish volunteer. “He’s being prophetic.”

The Vatican has not commented officially, but close aides to Pope Leo suggest he is aware and “deeply supportive” of Salgado’s efforts.

Whether this marks the beginning of a broader Church-led resistance to current U.S. immigration policy remains to be seen. But for many families living in fear, Bishop Salgado’s voice—and actions—is a beacon of hope.