The Pope’s prayer for immigrants
Merciful God, we pray to you for all the
men, women and children
who have died after leaving their homelands
in search of a better life.
Though many of their graves bear no name,
to you, each one is known, loved and cherished.
May we never forget them, but honour their sacrifice
with deeds more than words.
We entrust to you all those who have made this journey,
enduring fear, uncertainty and humiliation,
in order to reach a place of safety and hope.
Just as you never abandoned your Son
as he was brought to a safe place by Mary and Joseph,
so now be close to these, your sons and daughters,
through our tenderness and protection.
In caring for them may we seek a world
where none are forced to leave their home
and where all can live in freedom, dignity and peace.
Merciful God, wake us from the slumber of indifference,
open our eyes to their suffering, and free us from the
insensitivity born of worldly comfort and self-centredness.
Inspire us, as nations, communities and individuals,
to see that those who come to our shores
are our brothers and sisters.
May we share with them the blessings
we have received from your hand,
and recognise that together, as one human family,
we are all migrants, journeying in hope to you,
our true home, where every tear will be wiped away,
and where we will be at peace and safe in your embrace.
Amen.
Pope Francis