This cross was put on the Hill of Crosses in Lithuania in 2009 by representatives of FAFCE and its Members for all Christian families in Europe
Brussels, 10 September 2015
Many doors to homes, parishes and communities have already been opened across Europe to welcome families fleeing from Syria and Iraq. Families who had to leave their homes and their country due to persecution, many of whom are persecuted Christians.
A few days ago Pope Francis issued a strong call to all parishes in Europe to welcome one family of refugees each, following a long tradition of hospitality and solidarity. The European Federation of Catholic Family Associations, FAFCE, wishes to echo this call: every Christian family can help another Christian family – family solidarity is a family matter for every family.
Reflection and action at the European level are necessary but the many families in need cannot wait for political agreements to be met. Action on the ground, based on subsidiarity, must happen now and where needed – including in the originating countries which are no longer capable of guaranteeing the security of its Christian citizens.
FAFCE solemnly calls upon each and every Member State of the EU to support all relevant initiatives to welcome as many families as their own families wish to welcome.
FAFCE urges all member States to actively set up cooperation in this field: the future of Europe needs an additional step forward, in line with the goals of its foundation.
