Building Bridges: The Role of the Church and the Bible in Supporting Immigrants and Refugees

At present times, most of the people in the world have had the experience of leaving the place where they grew up. Maybe some only move as far as the next village or city. But for some people, they will need to leave their country sometimes for a short time, but sometimes forever. Every day, all over the world, people make one of the most difficult decisions in their lives: to leave their homes in search of a safer place and for a better life. There are many reasons why people around the globe seek to rebuild their lives in a different countries some people leave home to get a job or an education. The heritage of the country that receives them, to obey its laws and to assist in carrying civic burdens (Catechism of the Catholic Church, No. 2241).

Rev. Fr. Lazar Aslam, OFM Cap, has explored the issue through the lens of faith. He surely challenges readers to examine their own beliefs and actions in the context of one of the most pressing global issues of our time and become the voice of the suffering humanity. He hope that this book will be a valuable contribution to humanity and the society of today.

In recent times, the world has witnessed the challenges faced by refugees and displaced individuals and families. Fr. Lazar's research aims to help the readers to understand and respect the shared humanity of people, irrespective of creed, color, or ethnic background. The book emphasizes the mission of the Church in building bridges among diverse communities, aligning with the principles of the Sacred Scriptures.

Fr. Lazar's extensive experience in various missionary activities and interactions with diverse ethnic communities has motivated him to shed light on the urgent needs of displaced and homeless communities. This book not only enlightens readers on Biblical and Ecclesial teachings regarding refugees but also prompts reflection on our common homeland, where every human person deserves to live with dignity and respect.

This book invites the readers towards a special mission and commitment to the needy and the neglected. Presently the opportunities that are available for the rich are not accessible to the poor. In spite of hard work, the poor people are unable to improve their life due to several factors: under employment, low payment, delayed payments, exploitations with excess working hours, lack of security measures, no incentives, lack of family welfare measures, unsafe environment of jobs, lack of medical support to the migrant workers, lack of education of the children, unjust retirement benefits, accidents related concerns etc. While migrants are not organized to raise their voices in many situations, every person in the society individually and collectively has a duty to stand for the rights of the migrants and their families.