The nightmare thousands of Middle Eastern refugees face, is far from over. After triggering a wave of destruction in Syria and Iraq, Muslim extremists are now near the Turkish border. In the meantime, just a few miles away, hundreds continue to escape on a daily basis.
FARAH
Syrian Refugee
'We walked over here and faced many challenges along the way. It was difficult for me to get here. We fled by foot. I swear, it was not our decision to leave. We walked for three days. With all the problems we're very tired.â?
Pope Francis has called for peace in the region many times. He called a meeting with Cardinals to hear the testimonies of Middle Eastern patriarchs.
POPE FRANCIS
'Recent events, especially in Iraq and Syria, are very worrying. We are witnessing a phenomenon of terrorism of previously unimaginable dimensions.â?
In just two days, around 70,000 refugees made their way from Syria to Turkey.
The country of Jordan has a reputation for welcoming persecuted people from different cultures and religions. The Catholic Church also has a presence there thanks to religious movements like Focolare.
MARIA VOCE
President, Focolare Movement
'God is not far from those who suffer. God suffers with the people who suffer. That's why we must alleviate suffering and love each person. We must reach to those suffering and heal them with love. Most of times just one word is enough. Sometimes, with material support, or with just being there.â?
RITA MUSALLEM
Focolare Movement, Jordan
'At first, we welcomed 20 people. Many families of our Movement welcomed 30 or even 40. A priest told us that since 'there was no more room left in our house, I ended up sleeping in the car.â?
The movement has helped out with food, shelter and medicine. They've also prayed together. Many say what's surprised them most, is the faith of the persecuted.
RITA MUSALLEM
Focolare Movement, Jordan
'They don't want any revenge, because they firmly believe in love. They suffer because they were targeted...but they don't hate. They ask themselves why it happened, they shout and wonder about the state of humanity...but they don't feel any hate.â?
The Middle East is home to more that two million Iraqui refugees. Plus, an estimated three million Syrians have found refuge in Lebanon, Jordan and Turkey. In all these countries the Catholic Church works to give material and moral support to all those who, like them, are trying to start over.
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