The Gospel Gets Hot as Pope Francis Demands Action on Migrants – See What He Said!

Pope Francis has urged nations to embrace and support migrants, emphasizing the need to “welcome, encourage, and integrate” them. As countries in Europe and the United States grapple with unprecedented migration levels, the pontiff reminded the world of its moral duty, citing the Gospel as a foundation for compassion.

The Pope, a staunch advocate for asylum seekers and economic migrants, highlighted the “drama of forced migration” many face. He drew attention to the perilous journeys migrants undertake across seas in search of better lives, journeys often marked by tragedy.

Addressing the Italian nonprofit ResQ on Wednesday, Pope Francis painted a grim picture of the hardships migrants endure. He spoke of those who are “exploited, rejected, abused, and reduced to slavery” as they travel into the unknown, seeking safety and hope.

ResQ, dedicated to rescuing migrants stranded in the Mediterranean, received praise from the Pope for its life-saving mission. The organization operates a 128-foot rescue boat, actively safeguarding lives at sea.

“We welcome the action of those who do not just observe things, criticizing from afar, but who get involved,” Pope Francis stated. “Offering some of their time, their ingenuity, and their resources to alleviate the suffering of migrants, to save them, welcome them, and integrate them.”

He reiterated that generosity and action are in harmony with the Gospel’s call to care for the vulnerable: “The migrant must be welcomed, accompanied, encouraged, and integrated. This industriousness is in harmony with the Gospel, which invites us to do good to everyone, particularly the last, the poorest, the most abandoned, the sick, people in danger.”

A Divided Response

Migration has polarized opinions in the West, with governments and residents balancing humanitarian concerns against economic pressures. In New York City alone, $4.88 billion was spent across two fiscal years to provide shelter, food, and services for migrants.

Civil authorities face immense challenges in addressing migration effectively. “Faced with the vastness and complexity of the migratory phenomenon, the civil authorities do not always succeed in fully meeting their responsibilities,” Pope Francis acknowledged.

The Pope also underscored the importance of rescue missions for migrants in danger. “The rescue of those in danger of sinking in miserable vessels… is a very necessary task,” he said. “Your organization’s actions aim to save lives—people fleeing from places where serious conflicts rage, triggering humanitarian crises and violating fundamental human rights.”

Encouraging Support and Prayer

In his address, Pope Francis extended encouragement to those involved in aiding migrants: “Dear friends, keep going forward! May Mary, helper of migrants, assist you in your work. I bless you and accompany you with prayer.”

Quantifying migration remains a challenge due to limited data. However, the United Nations International Organization for Migration (IOM) estimates that 6.5 million people migrated to OECD countries in 2023, a 10% increase from the previous year.

Migration and Governance

The Pope has consistently called for countries to open their borders and prioritize humanitarian values. At a Vatican gathering last year, he praised “humanitarian corridors,” initiatives enabling refugees to travel safely to Europe.

Under this program, organizations like the Sant’Egidio Catholic charity and the Federation of Evangelical Churches have facilitated the relocation of over 6,000 refugees since 2016. These groups identify eligible asylum seekers in camps and arrange for their transfer and settlement in Europe.

The Catholic Church recognizes the complexity of immigration issues, teaching that governments have dual responsibilities. As outlined in the Catechism of the Catholic Church, the first duty is to “welcome the foreigner out of charity and respect for the human person,” particularly in wealthy nations capable of offering support.

However, governments must also “secure one’s border and enforce the law for the sake of the common good,” balancing humanitarian efforts with societal stability.

A Call to Action

Pope Francis’ words resonate deeply in a world increasingly divided on migration. His appeal is a reminder of shared humanity and the Gospel’s enduring call to care for the vulnerable. In his own words, “Safe, orderly, regular, and sustainable migration is in the interest of all countries.”