Pope asks Christians to end discrimination against migrants

Published: 2006-01-16

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope Benedict XVI called on Christians to shun all forms of discrimination and welcome the migrants in their midst. Marking the Vatican's celebration of World Day for Migrants and Refugees Jan. 15, the pope called on people to recognize the benefits of migration and overcome "every form of discrimination, injustice and disdain for the human person, because each person is an image of God." Addressing visitors in St. Peter's Square after reciting the midday Angelus prayer, the pope said the movement of people is a "sign of the times." While the movement may be voluntary or forced, legal or clandestine, motivated by work or study, Pope Benedict said, the arrival of newcomers from far away can lead to a knowledge of and respect for ethnic and cultural differences. Pope Benedict expressed hope that Catholics would help their communities overcome "difficulties of acceptance and integration" as they welcome migrants and refugees.

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