In his address for National Holocaust Memorial Day Commemoration Michael D. Higgins said, "Let us not forget that so little time separates us from the evil that was the Holocaust. This is not an event from the distant past.”
The terms ‘refugee’ and ‘asylum seeker’ should only arouse heartfelt concern in the Christian heart, says Archbishop Diarmuid Martin.
Some of those who come to Ireland have escaped from very dangerous situations, including religious persecution. On top of the trauma of losing their homes, jobs and often their families, they now face the challenge of being strangers in Ireland – Bishop Leahy.
“In our rapidly changing Ireland, we appeal for a new-found respect for every human person, without exception, and a complete avoidance of the use of offensive language."
In the 52nd World Day of Peace message, Pope Francis admonishes those whose political addresses blame every evil on migrants as “unacceptable”.
Bishop Paul McAleenan stated that society in England has experienced a significant rise in hate crime since the 2016 referendum and last year’s terror attacks.
It is vital to understand the many reasons for migration, including those fleeing from wars, and to avoid making migrants "scapegoats for everything that creates the problems of the world today" - WCC
Lord Mayor of Dublin launches Interfaith Charter dealing with issues such as religious freedom, inter-faith dialogue and the promotion of religious diversity.
“Racism and xenophobia are garnering electoral power in many countries” – President Higgins.
“What a tragedy and blemish that the long-present, beloved and treasured Jewish families of our community should suffer yet again such actions of disrespect, violence to the memory of their beloved dead."
At the annual Festival of Peoples celebration, Archbishop Diarmuid Martin stresses that those who contribute to the common good in Irish society have rights.
Church leaders call for prayers to be said in churches across the country today for those killed and injured in the "barbaric and monstrous attacks" in Paris.
"To know that the Holy Father is with us even when the Government does not appear to be with us, that is why we are so religious.”
“The pity of war should never be far from our prayers and our thoughts at such a time as this” - Archbishop Richard Clarke.
