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| Bishop Virgilio Pante |
The Vice Chairman for Commission for Refugee, Migrants and Sea Fares, Rt. Rev Virgilio Pante has made an appeal to the governments in Europe and in the countries of origin of migration flows and to the international organizations to cooperate in searching for a lasting and definite political solution to the instability and migration issues.
Delivering solidarity day’s message from the Pontifical Council for Migrants and Itinerant during Sea Sunday Celebration on 12th July, 2015, in the Archdiocese of Mombasa, the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) - Bishop Pante called for more resources to be committed not only for search and rescue missions but also to prevent the trafficking and exploitation of persons escaping from conflict and poverty in their countries.
Bishop Pante who is also the Bishop of Maralal said, with the situation of war, violence and political instability in several countries, a new phenomenon has been affecting the shipping industry Since 2014, alongside with the coast guards and the naval forces of Italy, Malta and European Union, the merchant vessels transiting in the Mediterranean Sea have been actively involved in rescuing thousands of migrants trying to reach the coasts of Italy daily.
He added that since time immemorial seafarers have fulfilled the obligation to rescue people in distress at sea under any conditions. “However the merchant vessels rescuing migrants at sea remain a health, safety and security risk for seafarers.’’ He added.
Bishop Pante expressed the Catholic Church’s appreciation to the seafarers for their fundamental contribution to the international trade, recognizing the great humanitarian effort done by the crews of merchant vessels who sometimes risk their own lives during rescuing operations saving thousands of migrants’ lives.
He also appreciated the chaplains and volunteers of the Apostleship of the Sea for their daily commitment in serving the people of the sea; their presence in the docks and demonstration of the compassionate and merciful face of Christ to the migrants.
Kenya is also home to one of the major harbours in East and Central Africa - the Kilindini Harbour in the Archdiocese of Mombasa. It therefore witnesses major influx of seafarers who suffer Loneliness, Fatigue and sea sickness while at Sea.
On Sea Sunday Churches all over the world come together to remember seafarers and pray for them, their families and those who support them.
Source: Rose Achiego, Waumini Communications KCCB
