World Refugee Day: Call to commemorate refugees who lost their lives at European borders (PDF)
Esteemed church leaders, dear brothers and sisters in Christ, dear friends, In this period between the two Easters and Pentecost, filled with hope and light intended for all humankind, we continue to be deeply saddened that the suffering, hopelessness and death, continues for thousands of our brothers and sister on the outer borders of the European Union and wider Europe.
Considering this reality, and continuing with tradition from past years, we appeal to the churches across Europe to commemorate around World Refugee Day (20 June 2024) the persons who lost their lives at the different borders – may it be at the Eastern borders, in the (English) Channel , the Mediterranean or elsewhere. We encourage churches to hold dedicated services, prayers and vigils on 23 June 2024 . For some, commemorations on other dates or occasions in the year have become a tradition.
Our appeal is made in times when the war in Ukraine rages on. The direct consequences of the Ukraine war continue and force people to flee. While the displacement from Ukraine is still a terrible reminder of the horror of the war and long-term perspectives are unclear, reception of those fleeing from Ukraine, not least by churches, has set several impressive, good examples. The facilitated entry of Ukrainians into the EU and other European countries has shown that borders do not have to be deadly for those who are fleeing.
Recently adopted legislation on EU level , in the UK and elsewhere however continues the logic of closing borders and denying legal access to Europe for many in need of protection – a development we see with great concern, as it will force many more to seek risky pathways into safety and protection.
You will find a short factsheet attached. We are also offering resources that can be used as worship materials or intercessions during a service. In 2018, we updated these materials, which were initially produced together with the German Ecumenical Committee on Church Asylum, supported by the Evangelical Church in Berlin, Brandenburg and Silesian Oberlausitz and the Protestant Church in Germany (EKD). The resources are available in English and German.
We will towards 2025 update the worship material. We very much invite you to share material, which you have been developing for or are using in commemoration activities, so we can include them in the update. As churches and Christians, our calling is to be witnesses and servants of the Resurrection, as well as to be promoters of new life in justice and peace for all, regardless of ethnicity, nationality, or religion. We know that we are part of a global fellowship of Christians in remembering together those affected in their respective regions, and in reflecting on the causes of their displacement. Let us remember the documented, as well as the undocumented, who died at the European borders; let us share our sorrow in prayer. We would be grateful if you could inform us at info@ccme.eu about your activities and share any resources you have developed.