Press Release
The Evangelical
Catholic Diocese of the
Northwest
POB 178388
Chicago
Illinois
60617-8388
Office: 773-721-5383 Fax: 773-721-2581
Email: diocesenw@evangelicalcatholicchurch.org
December 18, 2006
Chicago, Illinois - For Immediate Release
Diocese Calls Upon Cook
County Board
to approve
Sanctuary Ordinance
Bishop James Wilkowski, Evangelical Catholic Bishop for the Diocese of the Northwest is calling upon the members of the Cook County Board to pass the Sanctuary Ordinance being proposed again by Commission Roberto Maldonado. This proposed ordinance is scheduled for consideration at the December 19th meeting of the County Board.
Attached is a copy of the Bishop’s letter to President Todd Stroger asking him for help and leadership to ensure passage of this Ordinance.
www.evangelicalcatholicchurch.org/northwest.htm
The Evangelical Catholic Diocese of the Northwest
Post Office Box 178388 Chicago Illinois 60617-8388
Office: 773-721-5383 Fax: 773-721-2581 Email: diocesenw@aol.com
The Most Reverend James Alan Wilkowski, MPS, M Div.
December 18, 2006
The Honorable Todd Stroger
President of the Cook County Board
118 North Clark Street
Chicago Illinois 60602
VIA FACSIMILE: 1312-603-4678
Dear President Stroger,
As the Cook County Board continues its mission of service to the people of the County of Cook under your leadership, I understand that on your December 19th agenda is the Sanctuary Ordinance being again proposed by your colleague, Commissioner Maldonado. I was sorry that this worthy Ordinance was not passed the previous time it was considered.
As Bishop for the Evangelical Catholic Diocese of the Northwest, I respectfully wish to continue our support of the Sanctuary Ordinance. The ethical and moral foundations of this ordinance are so self explanatory that I cannot see why it was not passed the last time it was before the Board.
Mr. President, you and I both are aware that the national issue of immigration and immigration reform is a very complex one which needs time and though to properly resolve. While this process takes place, I have fears and concerns for the safety and welfare of those immigrants living within our County family who are lacking proper documentation and legal standing. We can neither pretend they do not exist, nor can we ignore our moral obligations to see to their many needs.
Historically, Mr. President, the Cook Country Board has never shied away from making difficult decisions regarding matters of ecumenical social justice and peace. As once who embraced the Catholic teachings on matters of social justice and peace, I respectfully ask for your help and moral leadership to help passage of this Ordinance.
Please be assured of my prayers and best wishes for you as your begin your term as President of the Cook County Board.
Respectfully Yours in Christ,
Evangelical Catholic
Bishop for the Diocese of the Northwest
cc: Members of the Cook County Board of Commissioners
www.evangelicalcatholicchurch.org/northwest.htm