Venezuelan and Colombian bishops seek paths for migration ministry

By Sr. Nina Benedikta Krapić, VMZ

Bishops of dioceses near the Colombia-Venezuela border have met to deepen their understanding of the reality of migration in the area and to coordinate transnational pastoral actions that respond to those challenges.

They met for the “Charity on the Border 2023” meeting held on 18-20 September in the Colombian city of Cúcuta. It was organized by the Dicastery for the Promotion of Integral Human Development and the Diocese of Cúcuta.

Participants discussed how to respond effectively to the challenges posed by large migratory flows, particularly at the borders of two countries.

They shared their experiences and proposals on the charitable and pastoral actions that have been undertaken to accompany and serve migrants.

A number of cross-border initiatives were discussed in hopes of contributing to a more effective joint action to welcome, protect, promote and integrate people on the move.

The Bishops drew several conclusions, including their ongoing commitment to offer spiritual and material assistance to migrants, refugees and displaced people.

109th World Day of Migrants and Refugees 2023

The meeting took place ahead of the 109th World Day of Migrants and Refugees, which takes place on Sunday, 24 September 2023.

In his message for this year’s World Day, entitled “Free to choose whether to migrate or to stay”, Pope Francis called for joint efforts by individual countries and the international community to ensure that all enjoy the right not to be forced to emigrate, but to live in peace and dignity in one's own country.

“Migrants flee because of poverty, fear or desperation,” said the Pope in his message, reiterating his calls to eliminate these causes.

“This commitment begins with asking what we can do, but also what we need to stop doing,” he said.