EDITOR’S NOTE … On Feb. 2, federal Judge Ana C. Reyes in Washington blocked the removal of temporary protected status from Haitians living in the United States. Reyes issued a temporary stay that prevents Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem from rolling back TPS for Haitians, which was set to expire Feb. 3. Those protections are currently restored.
A message from Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M.
The Diocese of Trenton stands in deep solidarity with our Haitian brothers and sisters here – approximately 2,000 – many of whom worship, serve and lead within our own parish communities. Their faith, resilience and cultural richness are a blessing to our local Church.
In light of the ongoing crisis in Haiti – marked by widespread violence, political instability and life‑threatening conditions – I join my brother U.S. bishops in expressing grave concern for Haitian families in the United States who now face the loss of “Temporary Protected Status (TPS),” as of February 3, 2026 (officially announced in the Federal Register by the Department of Homeland Security on November 26, 2025).
Current conditions make clear that there is no realistic opportunity for the safe and orderly return of people to Haiti at this time. The situation in much of Haiti remains dire. The U.S. Department of State warns of life‑threatening risks, including kidnapping, violence and civil unrest. Flights into the capital are suspended. These realities make clear that returning people to Haiti at this time would place them in grave danger. Again, the U.S. Department of State’s own travel advisory for Haiti is Level 4, the highest level, because of “life-threatening risks” that include kidnapping, terrorist activity, and civil unrest.
Haitian parishioners are advised to consult with a certified, trustworthy immigration attorney or other accredited legal services as soon as possible prior to the deadline. Some real legal pathways may still be available depending on their situation. Do not rely on unlicensed consultants or anyone promising guaranteed results.
While the Church recognizes the right of nations to regulate immigration, we also insist that such decisions must always uphold human dignity, protect families, and safeguard the vulnerable. We are seeing far too many incidents unfolding across this nation that fail to uphold these moral mandates.
I echo the call of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops for immigration policies that reflect justice, mercy and the protection of human life. This is most urgently needed when returning people to their home country would place them in grave danger.
TPS exists precisely for moments like this. We urge our national leaders to consider the humanitarian realities facing Haiti and to ensure that those who have built their lives here are not forced into harm’s way.
To the Haitian parishioners throughout the Diocese of Trenton, especially in Our Lady of Sorrows-St. Anthony Parish in Hamilton, Mother of Mercy Parish in Asbury Park, Corpus Christi Parish in Willingboro, you are not alone. We stand with you, we pray with you and we will continue to accompany you through our parishes, ministries and community partners. Through the intercession of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Patroness of Haiti, may God grant peace, protection, and hope to all who suffer.