migration from a catholic social teaching perspective

Population migration is nothing new, but is happening now to an unprecedented degree, with untold numbers of migrants shifting around the globe not because they want to, but often because they must. While not all patterns of migration can be considered problematic, Catholic Social Teaching (CST) focuses on and addresses the patterns that are in order to alleviate suffering and promote more humanitarian policies and programs. CST challenges the underlying social, political, and economic structures that impact migration and attitudes towards migrants.

Viewed through the lens of CST, some of the prevailing political attitudes can be clarified and resolved. The crux of CST is social justice and human rights. As Groody & Cross (2014) point out, there are several CST themes relevant to migration including the right to stay in one’s homeland as well as the right to move when conditions demand it.

Moreover, CST recognizes the emergence of a global community in which political boundaries are fluid; national borders can be permeable but still remain intact like a cellular membrane that lets in oxygen while still allowing for the removal of toxins. Migration issues are complex, particularly those that do not involve major humanitarian crises as, for example, in Syria. The anti-immigration rhetoric in the United States could be better resolved by addressing root causes and structural impediments to economic development in source countries, particularly those in Central America.

We need to address distributive justice, as Groody & Cross (2014) claim, “otherwise we end up looking at immigration as a problem in itself rather than a symptom of deeper social imbalances,” (p. 81). Instead of focusing on the manufactured problem of immigration, Bishops and their allies can focus instead on how to empower communities in developing countries to become more resilient and self-sustaining. Using scripture and rites like the binational mass, the Bishops are promoting a sustainable global peace, via a vision of a global community.

The theme of reconciliation is about trans-border partnerships, reaching for shared values and interests instead of focusing on differences, disagreements, and divergences. While the Bishops lay the groundwork through spiritual, social, and psychological work that prepares the world for new social norms, policymakers and the business community can collaborate on new ways of fostering trust and global partnerships. Those who would choose to leave their families to migrate from economic uncertainty have an important contribution to make to the world.

Their hope and motivation can be channeled towards the creation of a better tomorrow rather than being squandered on yesterday’s ideals. The visio Dei becomes a unifying principle: the symbol of unity and reconciliation (Groody & Cross, 2014. Through the meaning and message of visio Dei, like minded people from all walks of life, all cultural heritages, and all religious traditions can join together to promote the common good. We need to start creating win-win solutions instead of imposing hegemonic models; we need multilateralism in decision making.

The vision of God shows us that all people want the same thing: freedom, justice, and liberation. When there are disagreements as to the methods or paths taken to reach that common goal, there are better solutions than to resort to abuses of power. At times, bringing about a new world through.