COLUMBUS, Ohio — In a rare and emotionally charged response to heightened fears of deportation amid a surge in federal immigration enforcement, the bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Columbus has granted a temporary waiver excusing parishioners from the obligation to attend Mass if they reasonably fear being detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents.
Bishop Earl K. Fernandes issued the dispensation in a decree and accompanying pastoral letter dated Dec. 23, citing an “increase in immigration enforcement in the Diocese of Columbus, causing a rise in fear and feelings of anxiety among our immigrant communities.”
The move comes as ICE has ramped up operations in central Ohio, with confirmed arrests and sightings of agents prompting widespread alarm, including reports of families torn apart and individuals facing sudden separation during the holiday season.
“Recent days have seen an increase in immigration enforcement in the Diocese of Columbus, causing an increase in fear and feelings of anxiety in our immigrant communities,” Fernandes wrote in his letter. “The increased presence of federal agents in proximity to our churches and schools is creating an atmosphere of fear rather than security and peace, which we all desire.”
The bishop, invoking canon 1247, dispensed “all those persons who reasonably fear being detained, even those with proper legal documentation, who fear separation from their families, or experience intimidation because of their status or ethnic background” from attending Holy Mass. The waiver extends through the Christmas season, ending Jan. 11, 2026, with the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord.
Fernandes described witnessing “the drama of these past days personally” and appealed directly to law enforcement, acknowledging their duty while urging mercy: “To those who must enforce the law, I recognize that you must do your job and work to protect the people of our community; nevertheless, I appeal to your conscience: temper justice with mercy and compassion. Do not unnecessarily separate families at Christmas time.”
He warned of broader consequences, noting a “drastic drop in Mass attendance and participation in Advent devotions” driven by fear, which could lead to economic hardship for families facing shortages of basic necessities, including food.
“Our churches should be beacons of light and hope, where people can find refuge, forgiveness and peace, and where everyone — of every race, tribe, and nation — is welcome,” Fernandes wrote, encouraging those unable to attend to pray at home or watch livestreamed services.
In the formal decree, Fernandes cited canon law allowing bishops to dispense from disciplinary obligations when it contributes to spiritual welfare, stating the fear of enforcement “may deter some Christian faithful from fulfilling their obligation to assist at Mass, which would be detrimental to their spiritual welfare.”
ICE has confirmed at least two arrests in Columbus in recent days, describing those detained as serious criminals, while local leaders and advocates have reported a broader chilling effect on immigrant communities amid a national push for increased deportations.
The dispensation shows the human toll of enforcement actions during a sacred time, with Fernandes invoking the Holy Family’s flight into Egypt and appealing for generosity: “I appeal to you for a renewed sense of generosity and solidarity, especially at Christmastime.”
“God will not abandon you, nor will we,” Fernandes assured parishioners. “He loves you. Your bishop and your priests love you. We want to be with you and you with us!”