Churches and National Boundaries: Differences Between Borders and Limits According to Pope Francis

Abstract

Public opinion on migration is divided in Western societies. It raises new questions for churches since political and confessional identities seem threatened when borders are crossed. Meanwhile, ecological awareness helps us to consider the limits humanity must ultimately respect. The contrast between the Hebrew scriptural narratives about Babel and Abraham may help in the discernment between borders to cross and limits to enforce since, according to Pope Francis, migrations belong to the signs of the times. Christians may help societies not only by “welcoming, protecting, promoting and integrating” migrants and refugees, but also by implementing synodal processes of discernment within parishes and dioceses.