‘Mission is a tireless going out to all men and women, in order to invite them to encounter God and enter into communion with him. Tireless! God, great in love and rich in mercy, constantly sets out to encounter all men and women, and to call them to the happiness of his kingdom, even in the face of their indifference or refusal. Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd and messenger of the Father, went out in search of the lost sheep of the people of Israel and desired to go even further, in order to reach even the most distant sheep (cf. Jn 10:16). Both before and after his resurrection, he told his disciples, “Go!”, thus involving them in his own mission (cf. Lk 10:3; Mk 16:15). The Church, for her part, in fidelity to the mission she has received from the Lord, will continue to go to the ends of the earth, to set out over and over again, without ever growing weary or losing heart in the face of difficulties and obstacles’.
Pope Francis, From his Message for World Mission Day, 20th October 2024
‘Ireland faces significant challenges, such as homelessness, strained health services, and an education system struggling to meet demands. However, these issues have been on the landscape for some time - they have not been caused by migration.
Migrants can help address these needs, contributing positively to society. It is important to approach immigration policies in a way that serves the common good, which includes both migrants and citizens. We are fortunate to live in a country with a stable democracy and a vibrant civil society, and we encourage all citizens to participate in such political debate to the fullest of their abilities and convictions.
Pope Francis urges political leaders to prioritise effective solutions to social and economic exclusion, emphasising “political charity” to overcome individualism. Christians are called to support this vision collectively’.
From the Pastoral Letter ‘A Hundred Thousand Welcomes’, by the Irish Bishops.
'There is something I dread for you more than any sword or poison . It is the lust for power. Why have you been set above people? Not to rule over them, I am sure of that! A burden of service is our lot, not the privilege of power'.
St Bernard of Clairvaux, Letter to Pope Eugene III.
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