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Catholic bishops in the Nordic countries published a joint pastoral letter titled "The Earth is Our Common Home" regarding migration and integration. The letter, dated October 25, calls for solidarity with migrants and a more responsible public conversation on the subject.
The bishops urge compassion and objectivity in public debates, warning against aggressive rhetoric and narrow nationalism. They state that while every country must assess its actual capacity to receive and integrate refugees, authorities should avoid the deportation of individuals who have successfully integrated. The bishops also note that successful integration requires overcoming self-isolation while avoiding forced assimilation.
The letter highlights the responsibility of migrants to respect the laws and cultural values of their host countries and to participate in their communities. Referring to biblical precedents, the bishops note that migration has shaped all eras of human history. They describe Catholic parishes in the Nordic region as places of cultural diversity and active integration.
