“A hundred thousand welcomes, or Céad míle fáilte, signifies the long-standing tradition of hospitality that is undeniably part of our national ethos and Christian spiritual heritage, but this is now faced with new trials.
For believers, accepting migrants isn’t just a social responsibility, it’s also a holy mandate that mirrors Christ’s instruction to assist those most in need. Therefore, the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference has released a pastoral letter titled, A Hundred Thousand Welcomes?, relating to migration. The letter’s purpose is to re-establish the universal entitlement to human dignity, and to encourage all to turn their parishes, residences, and lives into welcoming sanctuaries.
The Catholic faith, itself a faith of migrants, is an essential aspect of Irish identity. St Patrick, a foreigner and erstwhile slave, brought the gospel to Ireland. Additionally, the Irish diaspora played a significant role in spreading the faith globally. Pope Francis, being a descendant of migrants himself, has consistently emphasized the dignity and the sacredness of the migrant journey. He prompts us to acknowledge the human commonality we share with each person, beyond the labels of migrant, refugee, or asylum seeker.
Migration has been a mainstay in Ireland’s history, making the current struggle to integrate migrants in many ways a new episode in an old narrative. The past centuries witnessed migration triggered by the Great Famine from 1845 to 1852, leading to a mass departure, as well as economic migrations in the 1950s and 1980s.
Yet, Ireland is now more of an arrival point rather than a place of departure, which presents fresh responsibilities and prospects. Migrants fleeing from conflict, persecution or economic difficulties often choose Ireland, bringing their skills, talents, and aspirations for a better future. However, the reality they encounter can frequently be a far cry from the idealised notion of a hundred thousand welcomes.”
The widespread reality of housing deficits, employment prospects and the social stress arising from abrupt demographic transitions often make the ordinarily warm Irish reception appear somewhat restrictive. The voices of those stricken with fear and anger, seeking stringent border controls, are further amplified by incorrect information and financial woes. However, as followers of Christianity, we are perpetually mindful of the biblical directive embodied in the Good Samaritan story that instructs us to love everyone, extend kindness to the stranger among us, and acknowledge the sanctity of each individual, irrespective of their nationality.
Reflecting on Ireland’s migratory past can offer valuable insights. Our ancestors frequently encountered aversion, bias, and exclusion when they ventured in search of better lives abroad. The experiences of Irish emigrants should remind us of the profound empathy we owe to those who seek refuge on our land.
This concept of intense hospitality already exists in various regions across Ireland. Consider the story of Irene Nunes, a Brazilian migrant in Ballyhaunis, Co Mayo, who is now a parish sacristan. Her journey shows how parishes can transform into hubs of inclusivity, fostering friendships and faith amongst the long-established locals and newcomers. Stories like Irene’s demonstrate that immigrants are not merely the beneficiaries of aid, but also significantly contribute positively to the rejuvenation of Ireland’s society.
Nevertheless, true social integration transcends beyond the initiation of a warm reception. Francis often discusses the importance of cultivating a “culture of encounter”, where tolerance is replaced by mutual respect, understanding, and authentic relationships. Creating this profound connection where locals and migrants mutually enrich each other’s lives, becomes instrumental in building a unified society.
Churches, being centres for community gathering and spiritual sustenance, can potentially play a significant role in this transition. Parishes that shift from merely welcoming to fostering a sense of belonging offer a practical model for integration. It’s apparent that immigration brings a unique set of challenges, including the pressure on housing, health, and educational services struggling to accommodate a burgeoning population. Yet, it’s equally clear that these issues preceded immigration as a prominent issue.
Migrants are not to be held accountable for these systemic issues, as they are frequently part of the solution. The economy of Ireland, currently termed as operating at maximum employment, is significantly supported by immigrant workers who are indispensable to industries such as healthcare, hospitality, and technology.
We are required to introspect and look beyond mere data and practical difficulties, paying attention to our humanitarian and religious duty to accept and honour new individuals. Our great country, spanning North and South of Ireland, is experiencing change as it moulds into a diverse society. We must not relinquish the principles that have so distinctly marked us – a sense of fairness, friendliness and an open spirit. Rather, these qualities must undergo adaptation and fortification in response to novel challenges.
By accepting the variety brought by migrants and catalysing a culture of interaction, we can not only preserve but also enhance our heritage of hospitality. Indeed, the obligation to accept and assimilate migrants signifies each of us embodying the preachings of Jesus Christ in this modern world. As Ireland progresses and alters, our comprehension of offering a wholehearted welcome has to reflect this evolution. It’s a plea for the construction of a society wherein each individual, regardless of their origin, finds a sense of belonging.
Dr Gary Carville, executive secretary of the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference’s Commission for Social Issues and International Affairs, firmly believes in this vision.