LA Archbishop Jose Gomez to Celebrate Mass for Peace in Support of Immigrants
Day of Prayer for Peace Designated by Archbishop Gomez Amid Rising Tensions
Archbishop José H. Gomez has declared Wednesday as a "Day of Prayer for Peace in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles." This event comes in response to heightened tensions within Southern California’s immigrant community, exacerbated by recent incidents related to immigration enforcement. Gomez will lead a special Mass at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, inviting all community members to join in prayer for reconciliation and peace.
The archbishop’s "Mass for Peace," scheduled for 12:10 p.m., will be followed by a Holy Hour led by Cathedral Pastor Fr. David Gallardo. According to the archdiocese, this day of prayer is particularly aimed at supporting immigrants and their families, many of whom are grappling with anxiety and uncertainty about their futures. "In this moment of pain and disruption, the Church seeks to walk closely with those who suffer, offering the assurance that they are not alone," an archdiocesan statement read.
Gomez emphasized the importance of prayer in light of recent events, stating, "We need prayer in this time of fear and uncertainty that is hurting so many of our immigrant families." He further noted the deep divisions and anger present in the country, urging the community to come together to pray for peace and the common good.
This call to prayer resonates beyond Los Angeles, as Catholics nationwide are expected to participate in similar Masses following an appeal from Archbishop Paul S. Coakley, the president of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, for a Holy Hour dedicated to national renewal.
The events on Wednesday occur in the wake of a protest that took place in Los Angeles on Saturday, which resulted in the arrests of more than four dozen individuals advocating for an end to funding for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). LAPD Officer Norma Eisenman reported that 51 arrests were made, including 47 adults and three juveniles, primarily for failure to disperse. The protests had escalated after previous violence, where demonstrators clashed with federal agents at the Metropolitan Detention Center.
Gomez’s remarks reflect ongoing concerns regarding protests against immigration enforcement, notably in cities like Minneapolis. In a January 27 column, he expressed his concern about the violence and fear stemming from federal enforcement actions. He advocated for a more measured approach, suggesting that deportations should be limited to violent criminals and that legislative hearings should be held to consider reforming immigration laws.
"Our country cannot go on like this," he asserted, highlighting the need for a humane approach that recognizes the contributions of undocumented immigrants to society. Gomez endorsed H.R. 4393, a legislative proposal designed to hold undocumented immigrants accountable while enforcing protections at sensitive locations such as schools and churches. He acknowledged the need for improvements in the legislation but stressed its potential as a "genuine, good-faith starting point" for meaningful reform.
