MIGRATIONS AND INTER-RELIGIOUS DIALOGUE

VATICAN CITY, OCT 18, 2001 (VIS) - Made public today was Pope John Paul's Message for the 2002 World Day of Migrants and Refugees, which will be celebrated in local churches on a date chosen by the respective episcopal conferences. The theme, "Migrants and Inter-religious Dialogue," was chosen by the Pope for this 88th world day. Dated July 25 from Castelgandolfo, it was published in Italian and English.

Following are excerpts:

"The development of modern means of transportation makes it easier for people to move from one country to another, from one continent to another. Among the consequences of this significant social phenomenon is the presence of about a hundred and fifty million immigrants spread all over the different parts of the world, ... a world where men and women of different cultures and religions are called to live shoulder to shoulder with one another."

"For this living together to develop peacefully, it is indispensable to remove the barriers of diffidence, prejudice and fear that unfortunately still exist among those who belong to the different religions. In every country, dialogue and mutual tolerance are required among those who profess the religion of the majority and those who belong to minorities, often made up of immigrants, who are followers of various religions."

"The vast and intense intertwining of migratory phenomena, which characterizes our times, multiplies the opportunities for inter-religious dialogue. Countries with ancient Christian roots as well as multi-cultural societies offer concrete opportunities for inter-religious exchange."

"Dialogue is not always easy. For Christians, however, the patient and confident pursuit of it is a commitment to be constantly carried out. ... They are always well aware that to be able to authentically dialogue with others, a clear witness of their own faith is indispensable."

"It is therefore indispensable for each one, to whatever religion he may belong, to take into account the essential requirements of freedom of religion and of conscience, as stated so well by the Ecumenical Council Vatican II."

"I would like to express the wish that this kind of living together in solidarity may also take place in countries where the majority profess a religion different from Christianity, but where Christian immigrants live and where they unfortunately do not always enjoy a true freedom of religion and conscience."

"If, in the world of human mobility, everyone would be animated by this spirit, almost as in a forge, there will arise providential possibilities of a fruitful dialogue wherein the centrality of the person will never be denied. This is the only way to nourish the hope 'for warding off the dread specter of those wars of religion which have so often bloodied human history' and which have often forced many people to abandon their own countries."

"The parish represents the space in which a true pedagogy of meeting with people of various religious convictions and cultures can be realized. In its various expressions, the parish community can become a training ground of hospitality, a place where an exchange of experiences and gifts takes place. This cannot but foster a tranquil life together, preventing the risk of tension with immigrants who bring other religious beliefs with themselves."

"Everyday, in many parts of the world, migrants, refugees and displaced people turn to Catholic organizations and parishes in search of support, and they are welcomed irrespective of cultural or religious affiliation. The service of charity, which Christians are always called to carry out, cannot be limited to the mere distribution of humanitarian aid. ... With the gift of material bread, it is indispensable not to neglect to offer the gift of faith, especially through one's own existential witness and always with great respect for all."

"In this way, if inter-religious dialogue is one of the most significant challenges of our times, the phenomenon of migration could foster its development. ... To accomplish this mission it is necessary to let the Holy Spirit guide us."

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