January 30, 2017 — As members of a global religious order
that works to form men and women of conscience and compassion, we denounce the
Trump Administration’s Executive Order suspending and barring refugees and
banning nationals of seven countries as an affront to our mission and an
assault on American and Christian values.
The Jesuits — through our work in high schools, colleges,
parishes and signature ministries such as Jesuit Refugee Service — have a long,
proud tradition of welcoming and accompanying refugees, regardless of their
religion, as they begin their new lives in the United States. We will continue
that work, defending and standing in solidarity with all children of God,
whether Muslim or Christian.
The world is deeply troubled, and many of our brothers and
sisters are justifiably terrified. Our Catholic and Jesuit identity calls us to
welcome the stranger and to approach different faith traditions and cultures
with openness and understanding. We must not give in to fear. We must continue
to defend human rights and religious liberty. As Pope Francis said, “You cannot
be a Christian without living like a Christian.”
