Pope calls for humane US migrant response Pope Francis
Pope Francis

Pope Francis

WASHINGTON. — Pope Francis has told the US Congress that the US must see migrants as persons and not as “numbers”. Speaking to a rare joint session, the Pope said immigrants should be treated “with the same passion and compassion with which we want to be treated”.

In the same address, the pontiff renewed his call for ending the death penalty, and for better treatment of the poor and disadvantaged. He was warmly greeted by 500 lawmakers, justices and officials.

Before his address, the Pope was greeted at the US Capitol by Speaker of the House John Boehner, who is Catholic, and then entered the chamber to thunderous applause.

He said the world is facing a refugee crisis of a magnitude not seen since World War II, and noted the immense challenges that the crisis presents.

But he drew particular attention to the movement of migrants from Central America to the United States in search of a better life — a reference which drew a standing ovation.

“We must not be taken aback by their numbers, but rather view them as persons, seeing their faces and listening to their stories, trying to respond as best we can to their situation,” he said.

In the speech, the pontiff highlighted the work of several famous Americans including Abraham Lincoln and Martin Luther King, and said even amid conflict they provide inspiration.

The 78-year-old Argentine pontiff then appeared on a balcony at the Capitol and spoke to thousands gathered on the West Lawn. — BBC

You Might Also Like

Comments

Take our Survey

We value your opinion! Take a moment to complete our survey