As Christmas celebrations begin, the Archdiocese of Miami has released a message rich in symbolism and faith, urging empathy during these times of uncertainty and fear experienced by thousands of migrant families in South Florida.
Archbishop Thomas Wenski's greeting focuses on the birth of Jesus Christ, drawing parallels to the biblical journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem—a challenging trip away from home sustained by faith, an act of trust amid vulnerability.
Wenski directly connects this ancient journey with the present-day reality of those forced to migrate in search of a safer future. "In many ways, their journey reminds us of all the families today who are also on the move, seeking safety, opportunities, and peace," said the archbishop, linking the Christian narrative to the modern-day migration crisis amid intensified raids and deportations.
The statement highlights the multicultural nature of South Florida, an area where people from various parts of the world converge, making migration an integral part of the social fabric rather than a marginal phenomenon. "South Florida is blessed with people from every nation and tongue. It reflects the Catholic Church, the Universal Church," he noted, emphasizing diversity as a spiritual and human value.
Within this diversity, the Church sees not just a social trait but a pastoral mission: to welcome, accompany, and remind that Christ's love knows no borders or status. "By welcoming one another, we make present the love of Christ, who came to dwell among all peoples," he expressed.
The greeting concludes with a wish for spiritual renewal in homes and communities, hoping these times bring peace, joy, and a reaffirmation of solidarity values. The message extends beyond liturgical celebration, urging society to embrace Christmas as a time for active compassion, especially towards those in vulnerable situations.
It calls for the Christmas spirit to transcend private celebrations and manifest in acts of closeness, hospitality, and solidarity with the most vulnerable, particularly those facing uncertainty due to their immigration status. This appeal comes at a particularly sensitive time.
Recently, Florida's Catholic bishops publicly requested a temporary halt to immigration operations during the holiday season. The request, led by Archbishop Wenski, called for a "humanitarian pause" so migrant families could celebrate Christmas without the constant fear of detention.
The request was addressed to both President Donald Trump and Governor Ron DeSantis, aiming to provide relief in a climate affecting not only those with criminal records but also workers and families without criminal history.
Wenski suggested that such a truce would "lower the social temperature" and allow for family togetherness during the most significant times on the Christian calendar, signaling respect for human dignity.
Despite government refusal, which cited the commitment to deport criminals in response to electoral mandates for stricter immigration law enforcement, the Christmas message underscores the human dimension of migration. It doesn't advocate for open borders but demands that any policy be executed with respect, rationality, and humanity.
This stance has been morally supported by Pope Leo XIV, who reiterated that while countries have the right to regulate migration, they cannot strip individuals of their dignity.
In this context, Christmas in South Florida emerges not only as a religious celebration but also as a moment of collective reflection. The Church proposes that the birth of Christ serves as an opportunity to renew peace in homes, strengthen community hope, and look upon neighbors with compassion, especially those living in transit, under pressure, or in vulnerable situations.
Understanding the Christmas Message from Miami's Archbishop
What is the main theme of Archbishop Wenski's Christmas message?
The main theme is the dignity of migrants, drawing parallels between the biblical journey of Mary and Joseph and the modern-day struggles of migrant families seeking safety and opportunities.
Why did the Florida bishops request a pause in immigration operations?
The request was made to allow migrant families to celebrate Christmas without the fear of detention, aiming to provide a humanitarian pause during the holiday season.
How does the message relate to the multicultural nature of South Florida?
The message emphasizes that South Florida's diversity reflects the Universal Church and highlights the importance of welcoming and accompanying people from all nations as a pastoral mission.