On Tuesday, March 4, The Catholic University of America and the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops hosted the Second Annual Immigration Conference, Rethinking Migration Narratives – Catholic Immigration Advocacy in 2025 and Beyond. Sister Maryann Agnes Mueller attended the event, which explored immigration narratives, their impact on public opinion and policy and a Catholic alternative rooted in human dignity. Most Reverend Mark Seitz, D.D., Chair of the USCCB Migration Committee and Bishop of El Paso, opened with prayer and delivered the keynote. Panels examined Catholic Social Teaching, the Church’s migrant ministry and balancing human dignity with border security. Breakout sessions focused on countering polarized narratives, and David Spicer, USCCB Assistant Director of Policy, led a session preparing participants for advocacy efforts.
On Wednesday, Sister Maryann Agnes Mueller joined about 200 people in line at the Hart Senate Office Building. Having visited many times over 15 years, she was struck by the unprecedented crowds. During meetings with legislative aides specializing in immigration and foreign affairs, she learned that a senator had recently hired seven new staff members to manage the surge in constituent outreach—over 1,000 calls per minute and thousands of daily emails. Sister Maryann attended Ash Wednesday Mass at St. Peter’s Church near the Capitol. Afterward, the priest announced a luncheon to support federal workers who had been fired, offering a sign of solidarity during difficult times.
