Father John J. Burke
Courtesy of ACUA

True to his promise to Dudley Wooten, John Burke (1875-1936) called a meeting of the leadership at the NCWC to discuss how the organization could best serve the needs of immigrant Catholics. Burke and his colleagues were especially concerned about reports of Protestant proselytizing at the ports of entry. The minutes of this meeting shed light on the origins of an organized Catholic outreach to new immigrants, and also demonstrate the political maneuverings and public relations campaign that accompanied the appointment of a "Director of Immigration" at the NCWC.

Resume of Conference Called by Father Burke

Questions:

As you read the document (linked below), reflect on the following questions:

• What actions does the NCWC propose to take in response to the alleged handling of immigrants by the YMCA?
• How did the NCWC propose to care for immigrants arriving in the United States?
• Which ports are designated for the establishment of NCWC departments of immigration?