Call for refugee tolerance

By Alex Arnold
Updated November 6 2012 - 12:46am, first published August 29 2010 - 11:39am
Samoan girls Taotafa Pese, Kisa Pese and Tanya Pese from Campbelltown.
Samoan girls Taotafa Pese, Kisa Pese and Tanya Pese from Campbelltown.
Bishop Peter Ingham with Father Tietie, Julian Samaauga and Jowinna Fainuu.
Bishop Peter Ingham with Father Tietie, Julian Samaauga and Jowinna Fainuu.
Veronique Atty and Severin Atty at the Mass yesterday to celebrate refugees and migrants. Pictures: GREG TOTMAN
Veronique Atty and Severin Atty at the Mass yesterday to celebrate refugees and migrants. Pictures: GREG TOTMAN

Tolerance towards migrants and refugees was at the heart of Bishop Peter Ingham's message as the Catholic Diocese of Wollongong celebrated Refugee and Migrant Sunday.Bishop Ingham also had a message for Australia's leaders in these politically uncertain times calling for a bipartisan approach to genuine refugees."We are challenged to remain open to newcomers, valuing the common human dignity we share," Bishop Ingham said. "Terrorism, racism or the economic downturn can all be used as reasons to reject newcomers."This attitude only fosters distrust and is contrary to the Australian spirit and our Christian heritage which fundamentally is a call to care for the human person, whatever their circumstance."I call for a bipartisan political approach to genuine refugees who come from traumatic situations, fleeing conflict and persecution."Today is a time to remember the many migrants and refugees who seek a new home in Australia, and to reflect on how we can better serve their needs."Yesterday around 1000 people from 30 ethnic groups from the Macarthur, Southern Highlands, Illawarra and South Coast regions of the Wollongong Diocese came together for the multicultural Mass and festival at St John Vianney's Parish, Fairy Meadow.Bishop Ingham said yesterday's celebration is a significant event, highlighting the richness of the many nations represented in the diocese.

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