Immigrants in North Africa Bring 'Vitality' to Christian Communities, Say Prelates

The contribution of immigrants in North Africa gives “vitality” to the Christian communities, and their “courage, hope and faith” give rise to admiration.

This was part of a final statement delivered by the Bishops of North Africa following a gathering in Rome, the Conférence des Evêques de la Région Nord de l'Afrique, which took place on 15-18 June.

In a final statement released to Fides News Agency after the conference, which focused on migrants and migration in North Africa, the bishops stated that "the courage, hope and faith of immigrants often arouse our admiration. They contribute always more to the vitality of our Christian communities and we have the joy of frequently celebrating baptisms and confirmations."

The statement added that countries in the north of Africa often host migrants, in addition to being points of transit for migrants passing through. The Church in the region is seeking to coordinate the pastoral care of the immigrants by working with the Church in their countries of origin and their countries of destination.

"However, we are touched by the tragic situations that a large number of them suffer," continues the statement, "the frequent violation of their rights but also the trafficking of which they are the victims."

"We denounce the fact that they are treated as criminals, even by public opinion," the bishops said, adding that there needs to be even more efforts to address "the terrible exploitation of women and children."

The Bishops also highlighted the tumultuous security situation in Libya, which prevented bishop Giovanni Innocenzo Martinelli, Apostolic Vicar of Tripoli, and Bishop Sylvester Magro, Apostolic Vicar of Benghazi, and their respective Vicar Generals from attending the conference.