While recognizing that efforts for peace will prevent the need for many migrants to flee from their homelands, Pope Francis says that a proper type of integration will help both migrants and host countries to be mutually enriched.
The Bishop of Rome said this when he addressed today new ambassadors to the Holy See from six nations.
He told the ambassadors that their presence in the Vatican is a “poignant reminder” that we all share a common humanity and this gives us a common mission: to care for society and creation.
“This service has taken on a particular urgency, as so many in our world are suffering conflicts and war, forced migration and displacement, and the uncertainty born of economic hardship,” he said to the diplomats from Estonia, Malawi, Namibia, the Seychelles, Thailand and Zambia. “These problems demand not only that we reflect upon them and discuss them, but that we also express concrete signs of solidarity with our brothers and sisters in grave need.”
Particularly, the Pope called the ambassadors to be a voice for migrants.
“For those suffering the tragedy of violence and forced migration, we must be resolute in making their plight known to the world community, so that as they lack the strength or ability to cry out, their voice may be heard in our own,” he said.
The Holy Father added, “While our initiatives on behalf of peace should help people to remain in their homelands, this present hour urges us to assist migrants and those caring for them.”
Better together
The Pope suggested that a “culture of dialogue” would promote a type of integration whereby both the traditions of migrants and the culture of the receiving communities is preserved, “all the while enriching both.”
“This is essential. If misunderstanding and fear prevail something of ourselves dies, our cultures, history and traditions are weakened, and our own peace is compromised. When on the other hand, we foster dialogue and solidarity, both individually and collectively, it is then that we experience the best of humanity and secure an enduring peace for all, as intended by our Creator.”
Full text: https://zenit.org/articles/popes-address-to-new-diplomats/
