World Refugee Day: Call to commemorate refugees who lost their lives at European borders 

Esteemed church leaders, dear brothers and sisters in Christ, dear friends, 

In this period after Easter 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 2025) the persons who lost their lives at the different borders – may it be at the Eastern borders, on route to the Canary islands, in the (English) Channel, the Mediterranean or elsewhere. We encourage churches to hold dedicated services, prayers and vigils on 22 June 2025. 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 or proposed legislation on EU level 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. This situation is aggravated by humanitarian support activities, including search and rescue activities are often being criminalised – with churches, NGOs or migrants themselves being affected.

You will find a short factsheet attached. We are also offering a collection of resources – these different liturgical elements, prayers, reflections and information texts can be used as worship materials or intercessions during a service or an information event. The material which was 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) has in late 2024 been completely overhauled and updated by CCME´s intern Tim Widmeyer – thanks to input from churches from across Europe. 

The 142 pages resource booklet is in English but also includes some material in 4 additional languages. It can be downloaded from https://ccme.eu/storage/app/media/Commemorative%20materials%20collection_as%20 25%2002%2024_compressed.pdf and freely used as long as CCME (and in many cases the original source) are mentioned. Our thanks go to all those who contributed to the collection.  

As churches´organisations 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.be  about your activities and share any resources you have developed.  

With our best wishes and greetings