The number of migrants and refugees arriving in Europe has reached record highs. In Italy, 100,000 people have arrived since the beginning of the year. This number has doubled since last year and is the highest since 2017.
Most of the migrants come from Africa and Asia. But many have died in the dangerous attempt to reach Europe, especially through the Mediterranean route.
POPE FRANCIS
Another tragic shipwreck happened a few days ago in the Mediterranean: forty-one people lost their lives. I prayed for them. And with pain and shame we must say that since the beginning of this year, almost 2,000 men, women and children have already died in this sea trying to reach Europe. It is an open wound of our humanity.
The situation of migrants is of high concern to the Vatican, where efforts are being made to increase charity, outreach and the promotion of peace in affected countries.
This year, the Church will commemorate the World Day of Migrants and Refugees on September 24 as an occasion to pray for the challenging situations migrants face. Pope Francis chose this year's theme as 'Free to choose whether to migrate or stay.'
JRB/PA
TR: AT
