🚨 ON HER WAY TO Mᴀss: Catholic Nun Released After ICE Detention, Sparking Nationwide Attention ⛪

McAllen, Texas – Catholic nun Sister Leticia «Letty» Ugboaja has been released after being temporarily detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) while walking to Our Lady of Sorrows Church in McAllen, Texas, to attend Sunday Mᴀss. The incident quickly drew nationwide attention and prompted reactions from religious leaders, elected officials, and community members.

According to officials with the Catholic Diocese of Brownsville, Sister Leticia Ugboaja, a 56-year-old nun originally from Nigeria, was taken into immigration custody on Sunday morning while traveling to church. She was released later the same day after members of Congress intervened and communicated with federal officials.

Sister Leticia Ugboaja is a member of the Daughters of Mary Mother of Mercy and has served the South Texas community for years. In addition to her religious ministry, she works as a registered nurse and has been actively involved in parish life as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion.

The incident prompted strong reactions from Bishop Daniel E. Flores of the Catholic Diocese of Brownsville, who described the circumstances surrounding the detention as deeply troubling and called for a full review of the enforcement actions. Community members also gathered in support of Sister Letty, expressing relief after learning she had safely returned home.

Federal lawmakers, including U.S. Representative Monica De La Cruz and U.S. Representative Henry Cuellar, confirmed they contacted officials with the Department of Homeland Security to ᴀssist in resolving the situation. Both lawmakers later announced that Sister Leticia Ugboaja had been released and reunited with her community.

The Department of Homeland Security has not publicly released detailed information explaining the reasons for the temporary detention. Meanwhile, church leaders and civil rights organizations continue calling for greater transparency regarding the incident and for policies that protect individuals traveling to places of worship.

Although Sister Leticia «Letty» Ugboaja has returned home, the case continues to generate discussion across Texas and beyond, with many faith leaders emphasizing the importance of protecting religious freedom while immigration authorities continue their enforcement responsibilities.