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US Church Must Have a Political Role
Posted on January 27, 2007

A LEADING Catholic has said the Church must supplement its ministerial programs with political advocacy if it is to meet the needs of the growing immigrant population in the United States.

Speaking at an immigration conference Los Angeles Cardinal Roger Mahony said that although some people question the Church's role in politics the church's mission is not limited to people's spiritual wellbeing.

"Our concern is with the whole person and his or her human development," he said.

He added that Catholics should form their opinions on immigration by considering the capacity of the United States to accept immigrants and the benefits immigrant workers provide.