Vatican Secretary of State Condemns Violence in Minneapolis
A senior Vatican official has described the recent fatal shootings involving federal immigration agents in Minneapolis as unacceptable, reiterating the Holy See’s long standing opposition to violence in addressing social and political challenges. Speaking to journalists in Rome, Pietro Parolin said that the Vatican consistently advocates for nonviolent solutions and respect for human dignity. His remarks followed reports that two United States citizens were killed during immigration enforcement operations earlier this month, incidents that have prompted concern and responses from Catholic leaders across the country. The cardinal emphasized that disputes and contradictions within society must be resolved through lawful and peaceful means, reflecting the Holy See’s broader diplomatic and moral stance on the use of force.
Parolin’s comments come amid growing criticism from Catholic bishops in the United States regarding immigration enforcement practices. Several prelates have issued statements urging restraint and calling attention to the moral and humanitarian dimensions of enforcement actions. In Minneapolis, local Catholic communities have organized prayer vigils, Masses, and public gatherings to mourn the victims and express concern over the escalation of violence. While Pope Leo XIV has previously spoken against the vilification of migrants and emphasized the need for legal and judicial approaches to migration issues, he has not commented directly on the Minneapolis shootings. Vatican officials have nonetheless reiterated that the protection of life remains central to the Church’s teaching and diplomatic engagement.
Speaking after attending an academic conference in Rome, Parolin stressed that violence undermines efforts to resolve complex social problems and deepens divisions. He echoed concerns raised by US Church leaders that enforcement actions must be carried out in a manner consistent with human dignity and proportionality. The Vatican has frequently framed migration as a global issue requiring cooperation, dialogue, and respect for international norms, rather than approaches that risk loss of life. Parolin’s remarks align with this framework, reinforcing the Holy See’s preference for solutions grounded in law, dialogue, and pastoral sensitivity.
The Vatican secretary of state also addressed other diplomatic matters during the exchange with journalists, including an invitation from the US administration for the Holy See to participate in an international postwar reconstruction initiative focused on Gaza. Parolin said the proposal raises questions that require careful consideration, noting the presence of unresolved issues. He also commented briefly on discussions held during a recent visit to Denmark, where he met with government officials and religious leaders regarding regional geopolitical concerns. While expressing cautious optimism about progress, Parolin underscored the importance of dialogue and diplomacy, themes that continue to shape the Vatican’s engagement with global conflicts and crises.
