Pope Francis has sent a message to mark the first anniversary of his pastoral visit to the island of Lampedusa, which is a major way-point for irregular migrants from North Africa who seek to enter Europe.
In the Message, addressed to Archbishop Francesco Montenegro of the Archdiocese of Agrigento, of which the island is a part, Pope Francis writes, “I encourage the Christian communities and all people of good will to continue to reach out and lend a helping hand to all those who are in need, without counting the cost, without fear, with tenderness and understanding.”
The Holy Father continues: “At the same time, I hope that the competent institutions, especially at the European level, might be most courageous and generous in refugee relief.”
