Bishops urge passage of Religious Workers Protection Act

Bishop Robert Brennan and the Bishop of Columbus advocate for the Religious Workforce Protection Act, which has bipartisan congressional support. This bill aims to enable foreign priests and religious personnel to continue their ministry in the United States without immigration system disruptions. Currently, there are around 6,600 foreign-born priests and 4,000 religious sisters actively ministering in the U.S., with approximately 136 serving in the Diocese of Brooklyn. The bill is sponsored by Senator Tim Kaine and has additional support from various other senators and representatives.

The Religious Workforce Protection Act aims to allow foreign priests and religious workers to serve in the U.S. without facing immigration disruptions, benefitting local communities.

Bishop Brennan stated that approximately 136 foreign-born priests are currently serving in the Diocese of Brooklyn, highlighting the vital role these individuals play in local ministries.

Senator Tim Kaine, the bill's main sponsor, is joined by bipartisan support from prominent GOP senators like Lisa Murkowski, Susan Collins, and Lindsey Graham, facilitating its congressional passage.

The Act addresses the challenges faced by 6,600 foreign-born priests and 4,000 religious sisters in the U.S. by streamlining their ability to minister effectively across communities.

Read at Brooklyn Eagle