Statement of the Permanent Council of the Polish Bishops’ Conference on Pope Francis’ Appeal

We are publishing the full text of the Statement:

After his visit to Cyprus and Greece, the Holy Father appealed to the European countries to enable local Churches, including religious congregations and Catholic organizations, to welcome people who urgently need the solidarity of the international community.

The Church in Poland supports the Pope’s appeal. We are ready to help, in accordance with the existing legal possibilities and with the applicable state migration regulations, all those who express their will to come and settle in our country. This implies receiving them and ensuring the necessary social support, as well as long-term help in their integration in our society (learning Polish and preparing to work in Poland). Caritas has been offering this type of assistance to immigrants living and working in Poland for many years. This assistance will be continued and developed.

We also ask all our compatriots to pray for the needs of migrants in Europe and around the world.

On behalf of the Permanent Council of the Polish Bishops’ Conference

+ Stanisław Gądecki
Metropolitan Archbishop of Poznan
President of the Polish Bishops’ Conference

Warsaw, 22 December 2021

Translated by s. P. Nau / Office for Foreign Communication of the Polish Bishops’ Conference