our Catholic groups working with refugees are joining forces for a Day of Solidarity, ahead of World Migration Day on December 3.
The Bishops' Office for Refugee Policy, the Jesuit Refugee Service, the Catholic Association for Racial Justice and the National Catholic Refugee Forum will stage talks, workshops and worship for refugees and those who work with them.
Jesus had a particular concern of the poor, the weak and the outcast. In his life and death he identified with them in a profound way. Jesus and his family were forced to flee, becoming refugees in Egypt. The quality of our welcome for refugees will be a measure of our fidelity to Jesus.
A spokesperson for the Office for Refugee Policy said: "World Migration Day is a special day in the Catholic Church, celebrated worldwide in the first week of Advent. In England and Wales, parishes and dioceses are requested to hold a Special Day of Prayer and Reflection on December 3.
"The Government's proposed legislation and the widespread sentiments hostile to refugees and asylum-seekers offer serious challenges to the Church's ministry with refugees. This event intends to draw on the inspiration of past work in this field to help us face the future in solidarity with refugees.
"As Bishop Patrick O'Donoghue has recently written, 'Jesus had a particular concern of the poor, the weak and the outcast. In his life and death he identified with them in a profound way. Jesus and his family were forced to flee, becoming refugees in Egypt. The quality of our welcome for refugees will be a measure of our fidelity to Jesus. Let us show that our Church is a place where refugees and migrants will feel welcome and are not treated as aliens and strangers.'" As well as refugees, there will be representatives from agencies that support refugees, church groups and drop-in centers.
Louise Zanré, Director of Jesuit Refugee Service (UK), said: "Too many refugees and asylum seekers are victims of discrimination and prejudice. This Day of Solidarity with Refugees is our way of demonstrating our support and concern for them. But it's also important for us to listen to their experiences and offer practical help and advice," she said.
(From Independent Catholic News)