New Jersey diocese drops lawsuit in anticipation of fix to priest visa issue

New Jersey Diocese Withdraws Lawsuit Over Priest Visa Rule

A Catholic diocese in New Jersey has ended its lawsuit against the U.S. government over recent changes to the religious worker visa program affecting foreign-born priests.

Background of the Case

The Diocese of Paterson had filed the lawsuit last year in the federal court in Newark against the State Department, Department of Homeland Security, and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, as well as their respective officials. The case challenged a policy shift under the administration at that time that disrupted visa processing for international clergy.

Resolution and Statement

Attorney Raymond Lahoud, representing the diocese, wrote on October 31 that both the diocese and five priests named in the complaint agreed to dismiss the action.

“The case was withdrawn to allow for agency action or rulemaking that will render the court relief unnecessary,”

he explained, noting that discussions with the agencies produced a national-level understanding.

Priests Involved

Father Regin Nico Dela Cruz Quintos (Philippines)
Father Joemin Kharlo Chong Parinas (Philippines)
Father Armando Diaz Vizcara Jr. (Philippines)
Father Joseph Anthony Aguila Mactal (Philippines)
Father Manuel Alejandro Cuellar Ceballos (Colombia)

Future Outlook

Lahoud mentioned that the agreement has wider national implications and promised further details once allowed to disclose them publicly. He did not respond to additional requests for comment from CNA.

Author’s Summary

The Diocese of Paterson dropped its visa-related lawsuit after reaching a tentative nationwide solution that could permanently resolve the issue for foreign clergy.

Catholic News Agency — 2025-11-08