Many asylum seekers have been housed in hotels or shelters, even as private groups are prepared to help them adjust to life in Canada. In downtown Toronto, however, inspired by the life of a freshly canonized saint, another model has been operating for over 25 years.

Respect is key to the process of dialogue with local and national officials, Bishop Tamayo told the Texas Catholic Herald.

The bishops' call in late November came after two priests and at least 60 civilians were killed Nov. 15.

"The forces of evil are on a rampage against the church of God but, as Christians, we believe in the promise of Christ that the gates of underworld will never prevail over the church."

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is urging Filipinos to stop going to church altogether.

Resources for sustaining thousands of migrants in Tijuana are stretched thin and the current U.S. government has showed few signs of speeding up the process for accepting asylum applications.