The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops annual meeting has begun in Baltimore. This year marks the end of the three-year term for Louisville Archbishop Joseph Kurtz as the group’s president.
In his farewell address, Kurtz noted that the most recent presidential election was marked by what he called a “lack of civility and even rancor.”
“Now we are required to move forward with a respect for those in public office," he said. "We seek the common good based on truth and charity.”
Kurtz and his fellow bishops are urging President-elect Donald Trump to adopt humane policies toward immigrants and refugees.
Trump talked tough about immigration on the campaign trail, including proposing building a wall along the border with Mexico. In an interview with CBS' "60 Minutes" broadcast last Sunday night, he said he would focus on deporting illegal immigrants with criminal records. Trump also has called for suspending the admission of Syrian refugees.
The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops said part of their identity as Roman Catholics is serving and welcoming people fleeing conflict and violence. Kurtz said the church would continue to offer that and other aid.
“The church at her best has always been a beacon of hope and has looked to find ways then to bring together people, so that the concerns that are being heard are also concerns that we would take to our heart as we’re advocates for people who feel that they’re disenfranchised or filled with fear," he said.
The bishops will elect Kurtz's successor in a meeting on Tuesday.
The Associated Press contributed to this story.
