I recognize with gratitude that the Church in America, from the south to the north, including the Caribbean, has a broad and diverse system of pastoral, charitable and human mobility ministry at the national and local level, which is manifested through a wide and solid response in direct care to migrants, which is reflected in shelters, returnee centers, emergency humanitarian assistance, medical care, psychosocial care, legal advice, spiritual support, strengthening of migrant groups, livelihoods and political advocacy processes. Please do not neglect these establishments, which are an opportunity for hospitality and charity for the brothers most in need.
A regional approach to migration also represents a pastoral opportunity. In my message for the World Day of Migrants and Refugees 2023, I recalled that the right not to migrate is presented to us as a solution, even if it is long-term, to forced migration, through the regional integration of sending and transit countries. , destination and return of migrants. I therefore urge you to join forces with all levels of the international community, so that everyone has the right to remain in their land with a dignified and peaceful life.
The path of migration needs pastors and pastoral agents who dare to overcome the limits of what is established, who are not afraid to recognize any path because they have lost the fear that paralyzes, capable of returning to what is essential, removing themselves from indifference, because they are aware that, only by walking at the rhythm of God with his holy people, will it be possible to cross the barriers of convention, leading the Church, together with migrant brothers and sisters, along paths of hope.