Balancing Justice and Mercy: A Lay Persons Perspective on Sovereignty and Accountability

As a devout Catholic, I find Pope Francis’ recent statements about deportations both confusing and divisive. Perhaps certain media outlets are misrepresenting his words, but it’s difficult to reconcile his teachings with the necessity of enforcing laws, especially when it comes to deporting illegal criminal aliens.

Even the Vatican, a place symbolizing mercy and compassion, enforces its sovereignty and security. If someone unlawfully entered Vatican City without authorization, they would be stopped by the Swiss Guard or Vatican Gendarmerie, questioned, and possibly detained. If their entry were accidental, they might be escorted out with a warning. However, deliberate intrusions, especially with harmful intent, would lead to detainment, legal proceedings under Vatican law, or referral to Italian authorities. Cases demanding refuge are rare in modern times and undergo strict scrutiny. The Vatican exemplifies the balance between justice and mercy, protecting its community while upholding its values.

Similarly, deporting individuals with violent criminal records protects law-abiding residents and ensures safer communities. Justice must be served to maintain public trust and safeguard the innocent. Leaders like Tom Homan have spoken with firsthand knowledge about the human cost of illegal activity. He has witnessed heartbreaking tragedies—children found dead in the desert and young girls raped or murdered during their treacherous journeys. These devastating realities remind us of the urgent need for justice and accountability. Compassion is necessary, but without justice, society suffers.

President Trump demonstrates a strong grasp of this delicate balance. His actions to remove individuals who commit heinous crimes, such as child abuse, reflect a deep sense of mercy—not for the perpetrators, but for the victims and society as a whole. True mercy does not mean ignoring justice; rather, it means protecting the innocent while ensuring accountability for those who harm others. Justice, properly administered, is a profound act of compassion toward the vulnerable and law-abiding members of society.

Recent comments from the Epicapalien Bishop were neither constructive nor appropriate. Her remarks were not a sermon, but a personal attack that fueled division rather than fostering dialogue. Such strong biases are unworthy of her position. Leadership from any clergy should never be a platform for hate or partisanship. If she continues to use her role to divide, it may be time for her to step aside. Leadership demands humility, wisdom, and a commitment to unity, not the promotion of personal animosity.

When it comes to individuals convicted of heinous crimes—whether priests, public officials, or anyone in power—justice must always prevail. Deportation, when carried out with due process and adherence to the law, is a necessary tool to ensure accountability and prevent further harm. Balancing mercy and justice is not an easy task, but it is a moral obligation.

Ultimately, as Catholics and as citizens, we are all called to show mercy. However, mercy does not mean excusing injustice or ignoring accountability. It means showing compassion while remaining steadfast in the truth. Justice and mercy must work in tandem to protect the innocent, uphold the rule of law, and maintain the moral fabric of society. Only through this balance can we create a world that honors both dignity and righteousness.