Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

Pope Francis emphasized the importance of supporting migrants during a recent audience at the Vatican. Addressing members of the Scalabrinians, he stressed that migrants exemplify hope and require assistance to maintain their resilience. "If migrants are to preserve the strength and resilience necessary for them to continue on their journey, they need someone to attend to their wounds and to care for them in their extreme physical, spiritual and psychological vulnerability," said Pope Francis.

He called for effective pastoral interventions to keep migrants' hope alive and assist them on their spiritual journey. The pope criticized wealthier nations for displaying hostility towards migrants, viewing them as threats. He stated, "Those who leave their native countries often do so because of tragic and unjust situations of unequal opportunity, the absence of democracy, fear of what the future may hold, or the devastation caused by the wars that plague our planet."

Pope Francis condemned practices such as using migrant labor only temporarily before dismissing workers once tasks are completed. He praised the Scalabrinians for their dedication to serving migrants and refugees across various cultures and religions worldwide. The congregation's work inspired him when he decided to elevate Scalabrinian Father Fabio Baggio to the College of Cardinals.

Highlighting his own background as a child of Italian immigrants in Argentina, Pope Francis remarked that migration is often driven by love for family left behind and can lead to growth if proper support is provided. He concluded by urging communities to welcome, accompany, support, and integrate immigrants.

"Migrants teach us to hope," he stated, emphasizing that all immigrants should be seen as unique gifts from God with potential benefits for society.