Twin Cities Archbishop John Nienstedt and other faith leaders are participating in an upcoming panel discussion about federal immigration reform at the University of St. Thomas School of Law.

Nienstedt is scheduled to host the Sept. 4 event, which is expected to explore such questions as, "Does supporting a 'path to citizenship' for undocumented persons reward illegal behavior?" and "Would federal immigration reform help or hurt our economy?"

The event -- which is sponsored by the Minnesota Catholic Conference, the public policy arm for the state's bishops -- will also feature Kevin Appleby, director of Migration Policy and Public Affairs for the U.S. Catholic Conference of Bishops, along with Minnesota business leaders, clergy, Catholic immigrants and others.

Panelists "will discuss the U.S. bishops' support for immigration reform and the important role people of faith play in this national conversation," according to a released statement from the Minnesota Catholic Conference. A question and answer period will follow the panel discussion.

The event is free and open to the public. RSVP is requested to allow for seating, but is not required to attend. RSVP to: info@mncc.org