Townsville Bishop Timothy Harris has released a pastoral message on immigration, saying the topic has “become a matter of intense public debate.”
“Governments must weigh complex questions of population growth, housing, infrastructure and social cohesion and cultural unity,” he said in his message dated for release on the weekend of 21-22 September.
“These are important considerations, yet they should never cause us to forget the people at the heart of this discussion.”
The bishop emphasised how each new person in Australia is made in God’s image and comes here “with hopes for safety, dignity, and the opportunity to contribute to a new life.”
Bishop Harris’ statement comes weeks after the Australian Catholic Bishops’ Conference released a letter marking the 75th anniversary of their pastoral letter On Immigration, which was released in 1950.
“Once again, our nation serves as a sanctuary and refuge for thousands seeking a new life, whether fleeing hardships in their homelands or pursuing the opportunities, freedom, and prosperity that Australia offers,” the anniversary statement read.
“We are called again to extend the hand of welcome to migrants; ‘patience, kindliness, sympathy and practical help must be rendered to all unfailingly and in God’s name.’”
Bishop Harris echoed both statements, saying the original 1950’s one has “enduring relevance” and reminded the faithful of Pope Leo XVI’s position, which is to build a community who sees and treats migrants and refugees as part of the Catholic family.
“Migrants have played an integral role in enriching the Catholic Church in Australia,” the bishop said.
“Their faith, vibrancy, and joy have renewed parishes across the country, bringing fresh life through diverse devotions, traditions, and expressions of faith that continue to nurture our communities.”
He said many priests and other clergy in Australia have come to serve in the nation from all over the globe and provide spiritual leadership which sustains and grows the church.
“Since 2010, through the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference labour agreement, numerous clergy and religious from overseas countries have been granted permanent visas, sponsored by our dioceses and religious congregations,” he said.
“These clergy and religious, representing 84 nationalities, provide pastoral care and ministry across Australia, including in some of the most remote communities.”
Bishop Harris said extending a hand of friendship to all who contribute, Australians can be assured the nation will continue to be “known as a land of fairness, generosity, and shared belonging.”
