In McAllen, Texas, a nun was released from immigration custody after being detained while walking to church. Sister Leticia Ugboaja was on her way to Our Lady of Sorrows Church, a short distance from the U.S.-Mexico border, when she was arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers.
The Department of Homeland Security and ICE have not provided any comments since the incident occurred. Following her arrest, a message from parish officials was posted on social media, which gained attention in the news. This led to involvement from congressional members, including U.S. Representative Monica de la Cruz, who advocated for Ugboaja’s release.
Ugboaja is part of the Daughters of Mary Mother of Mercy and has been volunteering as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion at the church, according to Brenda Riojas, spokesperson for the Diocese of Brownsville. She is also employed as a registered nurse at South Texas Health System and has extensive experience from her previous role as a certified nursing assistant at DHR Health in Edinburg.
Federal intervention came from members of Congress representing South Texas, resulting in Ugboaja returning to her home by Monday. Riojas expressed gratitude for the swift response, stating, “We are grateful for the quick response of local representatives who reached out to the Department of Homeland Security to get her released from custody.”
The immigration policies under President Donald Trump have sparked changes among faith leaders, particularly concerning sensitive areas like houses of worship. Some leaders have adapted by encouraging online attendance and offering support with errands, such as grocery shopping, to help those fearful of leaving their homes.