Migrants meet at Holy Rosary Cathedral

Archbishop Miller says those who welcome them 'welcome Christ Himself'

Many people from a variety of cultures came to Holy Rosary
Cathedral to celebrate the 99th World Day of Migrants and Refugees.
(Photo credit: T. Barbou / Special to The B.C. Catholic)

It's not easy to move to another country, especially if that country speaks a different language, eats different food, and wears different clothes. According to Archbishop J. Michael Miller, CSB, helping migrants integrate is like 'welcoming Christ Himself.'

Archbishop J. Michael Miller, CSB, described the importance of welcoming newcomers and understanding their situation. "On one hand, they remain attached to their country of origin and do not want to lose it. On the other hand, because they are here, they wish to be inserted into Canadian society without being assimilated."

"We must be on guard against attempting to assimilate those recently arrived in a way which would destroy their particular culture and religious traditions."

The archbishop explained that the role of the parish is key for the process of integration. "The parish is meant to be a community home where everyone feels welcome and at ease," he said.

Read the full story at The B.C. Catholic website.