CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) – The Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston is preparing to welcome a new Catholic bishop: a Salvadoran-born advocate for immigrants who has openly criticized former U.S. President Donald Trump’s immigration policies.
Menjivar-Ayala, 55, fled El Salvador during its civil war in the late 1980s and entered the U.S. illegally in 1990. In a previous interview with The Associated Press, he recounted how he received humanitarian protection shortly after his arrival, later obtaining a visa as a religious worker and ultimately becoming a U.S. citizen 20 years ago.
Menjivar-Ayala empathizes with immigrants caught in federal raids, drawing from his own experiences. His understanding deepens as he reflects on the challenges they face, reaffirming that in similar circumstances, “that could have been me.”
Focus on the Marginalized
While he chose not to comment on immigration policies or recent rhetoric from Trump, Menjivar-Ayala emphasized his commitment to engaging with and listening to the local community. His speech included portions delivered in Spanish, showcasing his dedication to inclusivity.
“I have much to learn, but my heart is open,” he stated. “Above all, I want to listen to those on the margins of both the church and society—workers, immigrants, and the economically disadvantaged. As Matthew 25 reminds us, our treatment of others reflects how we treat Jesus.”
In contrast to the Archdiocese of Washington, where over 40% of parishioners are Latino, West Virginia’s Latino population is a mere 2.4%, with 92.6% of its 1.77 million residents identifying as white. Menjivar-Ayala is set to succeed Rev. Mark Brennan, who has served as bishop since 2019, navigating the diocese through a period of recovery from scandals of the previous administration.
During a press conference in Wheeling, Brennan expressed confidence in Menjivar-Ayala, emphasizing his dedication to serving all members of the community. “He loves all the people here and will be the bishop for everyone,” he assured the audience.
Recognition for Advocacy
Cardinal Robert McElroy of Washington commended Menjivar-Ayala for his advocacy work, particularly for immigrant communities. In a statement, he remarked that “his passion for justice and genuine care for our archdiocese’s Hispanic and immigrant populations will have long-lasting positive effects.”
Last year, Menjivar-Ayala criticized the Trump administration’s approach to immigration in an article for the Catholic Standard. He warned that the treatment of immigrants was becoming increasingly alarming, observing, “The federal government has escalated its efforts from a mere immigration crackdown to a full-scale campaign of aggressive threats and questionable legality.”
His appointment follows a backdrop of national debates over U.S. foreign policy, particularly concerning Iran. Menjivar-Ayala is scheduled to be sworn in as bishop on July 2. The White House has not yet commented on this appointment.
Additionally, another Latin American-born priest, Rev. John Gomez, has been appointed diocesan bishop in Laredo, Texas, further highlighting the importance of foreign-born clergy in the U.S., especially as the number of domestic priestly ordinations has declined.
Delorto reported from Minneapolis.
