Bishop Mark Seitz of the Diocese of El Paso has been vocal in his criticism of Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s immigration views, which he believes are being used for political gain and are not in line with the teachings of the Catholic Church and Pope Francis. Seitz has condemned efforts at the U.S.-Mexico border, such as the placement of razor wire and the arrest of illegal migrants without federal jurisdiction, as part of a broader political project in Texas to criminalize and police migrants. He has also called out Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton for targeting organizations that aid migrants, describing it as part of an escalating campaign of intimidation and dehumanization in the State of Texas.
Seitz expressed concerns about the upcoming presidential election and how some candidates are demonizing migrants for political gain. He believes that more people are in migration now than ever before in history, and that there is a need for everyone to come together to help those in need. The bishop also criticized the tendency of people to let their political beliefs shape their Christianity, rather than the other way around. He highlighted the importance of Pope Francis and the Vatican in addressing immigration issues, praising the Pope for standing up for the dignity and equality of migrants against pushback from those who seek to deny their humanity.
Seitz’s relationship with Pope Francis goes back years, and the Pope’s support has emboldened the bishop and his diocese to speak out on immigration issues. Seitz described the Pope as a source of strength in his ministry at the border, where he deals with these issues on a daily basis as an essential part of the church’s work in caring for the poor among them. Despite potential backlash, Seitz feels supported by Pope Francis and is encouraged to continue speaking out on behalf of migrants. He believes that those who are angry with his stance should be prepared to challenge the Holy Father as well.
Seitz has been the chair of the U.S. Bishops’ Conference Migration Committee (USCCB) and has been actively involved in advocating for the rights and dignity of migrants. He has criticized the use of immigration as a political tool and believes that the church should be at the forefront of helping and supporting those in need. Seitz’s comments reflect a deep commitment to social justice and the values of the Catholic Church, even in the face of political opposition and controversy. He sees his role as a bishop as a call to serve and protect the vulnerable, regardless of the challenges that may arise.
