The Conference of Major Superiors of Men (CMSM) is the pontifically recognized national representative organization serving leaders of men’s religious congregations, monastic communities, and religious institutes in the United States. The Clerics of St. Viator are a member congregation of CMSM and stand with the leadership and public message of the collective.
During the 2025 CMSM Assembly, arising from reflection on the Assembly theme and the migration discussion, CMSM members agreed to make a statement on the current immigration situation in the United States. In response, CMSM has released a statement, formally approved by the CMSM board, addressing the current state of immigration in the United States:
As the leaders of male religious communities in the United States, the Conference of Major Superiors of Men (CMSM) stands united in upholding the inherent dignity of every person, regardless of legal status, nationality, or place of origin. Religious communities in the United States have long upheld a tradition of compassionately welcoming and serving those who come to the United States in search of a better life. This commitment remains steadfast today. Rooted in the Gospel and the rich tradition of Catholic social teaching, we stand with our immigrant brothers and sisters in the face of the suffering, fear, and injustice they are enduring.
The current state of immigration in the United States reveals decades of policy failures resulting in inhuman treatment of migrants and refugees, contrary to our moral principles. Families are separated. Asylum seekers are turned away. Individuals living peacefully in our communities are detained and deported, often without due process.Individuals are being targeted at places of worship and subsequently being detained without access to chaplains—an unacceptable violation of their human rights. In response, we reiterate the Church’s commitment to human dignity. Every human being is created in the image of God and must be treated with respect, compassion, and justice.
We echo the words of Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), “Law enforcement actions aimed at preserving order and ensuring community security are necessary for the common good. However, the current efforts go well beyond those with criminal histories.” We emphasize the need for comprehensive immigration reform to address these issues, and we encourage our members to respond to this ongoing injustice in ways that reflect their unique charisms.