Catholics Called to ‘welcome, support, and embrace’ Immigrants
In 1950, Catholic bishops issued "On Immigration", urging the community to offer generosity to those seeking to make Australia their new home. Today, Australia’s bishops have issued "Under the Southern Cross: A Journey of Faith and Unity"
Date Posted:
24-Aug-2025
"We will open our hearts to the cries of the poor using our energies, gifts and resources to address violence and discrimination..." (Chapter Statement)
"In Australia in 2025, just as Catholics were called in 1950, we are called to welcome, support, and embrace those who arrive from other lands. We must “regard it as a solemn duty to help in the placing and absorbing of immigrants into our community and in making them feel at home amongst us”. As St Paul reminds us, we should “not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it” (Hebrews 13:2)
Migrants have made an immeasurable contribution to our nation, shaping and enriching our society in profound ways. We are the beneficiaries of their diverse cultural traditions, stories, and deep wisdom, as well as the resilience and lived experiences they bring. Their presence has not only strengthened the fabric of our communities but has also deepened our understanding of what it means to be human. Through their contributions, Australia has become a more welcoming, vibrant, and flourishing society.
This timeless call to hospitality and generosity remains as vital today as it was seventy-five years ago. In Pope Leo’s words, this call today is for us to become a living witness to hope and to build a community that recognise migrants and refugees as brother and sister, part of a family which they can express their talents and participate fully in their new community life."
- Read the complete Statement here