Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
St Gallen (Agenzia Fides) – Confronted with the mass of African refugees who are reaching Europe via Italy's coasts, we need “the solidarity, and institutional solidarity, too, of all peoples on the European continent, as well as that of the structures of the European Union and other continental bodies.” This call was made by the Presidency of the Council of European Bishops' Conferences (CCEE), via a statement signed by the President of the CCEE, Card. Péter Erdo, and by the two Vice-presidents, Card. Jean-Pierre Ricard and Card. Josip Bozanić.
“The soul-stirring influx of emigrés arriving in Europe, especially from Libya, victims of the war, is well-known to all of us,” states the declaration. “Masses of refugees reach Europe on Italy’s coasts. However, the issue does not affect just one nation.” The Presidency of the CCEE reiterates, “we believe the effective participation of all leaders in resolving this truly serious and pressing problem is urgent. In every human person we must see the inalienable dignity of the creature bearing in him/herself the image of God. We are also responsible for safeguarding legal order and are respectful of the dignity of all people in the countries of our continent. We pray that arms may give way to reason and dialogue.” (SL) (Agenzia Fides 2/04/2011)
