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English cardinal calls for change of heart toward migrants

May 03, 2016

Preaching at a Mass for migrants in Westminster Cathedral on May 2, Cardinal Vincent Nichols prayed for “a change of heart in our society, so that we begin by appreciating the great contribution made by so many migrant communities, without whom this city would not function.”

The prelate contrasted the generosity of Christians with the policies of European governments.

“I think of the testimony offered by the Catholic parish priest of the island of Lesbos who said that never before in the island’s history had such consistent generosity been shown by its inhabitants,” Cardinal Nichols said. “Now the pressure on them is intense, as civil authorities try to implement international plans that often seem to treat people purely as problems or even as packages to be sent from place to place.”

“We hope that the way in which governments respond to the immense challenge which faces us will take more seriously the personal generosity of so many, in this country too, who are willing to welcome refugees and desperate migrants and yet are hindered from doing so by policies shaped more by caution and fear,” he added.

 


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  • Posted by: Pete - May. 03, 2016 6:29 PM ET USA

    I'm not so sure that it's a true "change of heart" toward migrants, or a demand that migrants enter a country LEGALLY. Yes, we're ALL God's children, but we also have a right and a duty to protect ourselves and our families. The U.S. is primarily a country of immigrants who have banded together to promote a society and ideals of a free nation. Many have come here ILLEGALLY, and are NOT contributing to the cause. Crimes are high because of Illegals rather than those who came in peace.