DIOCESE OF SAN DIEGO
June 11, 2025
Office of the Vicar General
Dear Fellow Priests, Deacons, and Ministry Leaders of our Parishes,
On the morning of June 20th, which is International Refugee Day, a group of priests and faith leaders are planning to visit the federal court building to stand in solidarity with migrants who are making their court appearances. We know that migrants and refugees find themselves in the difficult predicament of being called to appear, which is what the government asks of them, and then being given orders for expedited removal from our country.
This group of priests and faith leaders will simply be present during this process as it has been experienced that the presence of faith leaders makes a difference in how the migrants are treated. Unfortunately, it will most likely not change the outcome. Following the court appearances, the faith leaders will have a press conference so that the clear message that people of faith stand with immigrants and refugees can be delivered to the broader public.
The World Day for Refugees will begin with Mass at St. Joseph Cathedral downtown at 7 am with all three Bishops presiding and a blessing afterward for the small delegation that will go to the courthouse.
If you feel moved to participate, please notify either of the following:
Fr. Scott Santarosa, SJ
Pastor of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish
santarosasj@olgsd.org
or
Dinora Reyna-Gutierrez
San Diego Organizing Project
dinora@sdop.net
Being present will be a good way for us to give witness and stand with immigrants on a day in which, across the Diocese, we will all celebrate a Mass at our various parishes dedicated to our immigrant brothers and sisters.
Gratefully yours,
+ Most Rev. Michael Pham
Bishop Designate
+ Most Rev. Ramon Bejarano
Auxiliary Bishop
+ Most Rev. Felipe Pulido
Auxiliary Bishop
The World Day for Refugees will begin with Mass at St. Joseph Cathedral downtown at 7 am with all three Bishops presiding and a blessing afterward for the small delegation that will go to the courthouse