News Release: Catholic Church in Michigan Stands Ready to Assist Refugees

(Lansing, Mich.) — This past weekend following the terrorist attacks overseas Governor Rick Snyder issued a directive suspending Michigan’s effort to accept new refugees to the state. Gov. Snyder highlighted his priority to “protect the safety of our residents” and that state leaders will be in dialogue with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security regarding security and future resettlement efforts. Michigan Catholic Conference President and CEO Paul A. Long responded today to the Governor’s direction by articulating the Church's readiness to continue assisting refugees and the most vulnerable once resettlement continues:

“Michigan Catholic Conference is appreciative of Governor Snyder’s responsibility to ensure the safety and security of all Michigan residents. MCC also expresses its full support for a statement issued this weekend by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Administrative Committee voicing solidarity with those who are suffering from the horrific violence that occurred overseas. Going forward, once the Governor receives the safety reassurances from Homeland Security he feels are necessary, we expect that Michigan will continue to be a welcoming place. The Catholic Church in Michigan, through its vast network of human service agencies, stands ready and is eager to assist incoming refugees and the most vulnerable who are in desperate need of assistance.”

Michigan Catholic Conference is the official public policy voice of the Catholic Church in this state.

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