‘A Sanctuary of Dignity’

The Archdiocese of Bangalore in India has initiated a noble project for migrants near a place called Mathikere (closer to Yeshwanthpur Railway Station), marking a significant milestone in its mission of service and inclusivity.

On 1 December, the foundation stone for the Migrants’ Centre was blessed by H.E. Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, the Apostolic Nuncio to India & Nepal, in the presence of Archbishop Peter Machado, Auxiliary Bishop Arokia Raj Satis Kumar, the Parish Priest and the parishioners of Christ the King Parish, who are aiding this initiative.

In his address, the Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli said that the project is indeed praiseworthy. He called the Migrants’ Centre a commendable step towards recognizing and uplifting the dignity of migrants. He remarked, “Migrants are like God and should be welcomed with dignity. The Archdiocese of Bangalore is truly living out the Indian cultural ethos of treating guests as God (Athithi Devo Bhava) while aligning with Pope Francis’ vision of addressing the needs of migrants.”

Archbishop Peter Machado expressed his gratitude to the Apostolic Nuncio for his presence and inspiring words, which made this initiative even more memorable. He emphasized the need for everyone’s cooperation in treating migrants with respect and supporting their needs.

Reflecting on the significance of the initiative, Archbishop Peter Machado remarked, “Migrants are not just individuals in transit; they are our brothers and sisters seeking hope and opportunities. It is our Christian duty to welcome them with open hearts and hands, ensuring they feel valued, respected and supported. This Migrants’ Centre is a step towards affirming their dignity and showing them the love of Christ through our actions.”

The event witnessed the participation of the Apostolic Nuncio’s colleagues, priests, religious leaders and the faithful, reflecting the collective spirit of solidarity. The Archbishop also thanked the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, and Cardinal-elect Monsignor Fabio Baggio, the Dicastery’s under-Secretary, for their support. He explained that H.E. Cardinal Tomassi and the Scalabrinian missionaries, who are known for their dedicated work with migrants, are supporting the venture of running this house as “Migrants Reception & Short Stay Centre”. The Archbishop acknowledged that this project is being coordinated under the aegis of the Bangalore Multipurpose Social Service Society (bmsss).

This project stands as a testament to the Archdiocese of Bangalore’s unwavering commitment to the Gospel values of love, service and inclusivity. It is a beacon of hope and a reminder of the Church’s mission to care for the marginalized and vulnerable in society.

This unique moment also re-echoed the words of Pope Francis, “Every stranger who knocks at our door is an opportunity for an encounter with Jesus Christ, who identifies with the welcomed and rejected strangers of every age.”

Fr Maria Anthony

Assistant Director, Archdiocesan Communications Centre