Bangalore Archdiocese Offers Shelter for Migrants

Bangalore, December 3, 2024: The Archdiocese of Bangalore inaugurated the “Migrants Reception and Short Stay Centre” on December 1, offering safe and temporary accommodation for migrants. The facility, located in Mathikere near Yeshwantpur Railway Station, aims to address the growing needs of the city’s large migrant population. The initiative was marked by a foundation stone blessing by Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, Apostolic Nuncio to India and Nepal, alongside Archbishop Peter Machado of Bangalore and Auxiliary Bishop Arokia Raj Satis Kumar of Bangalore.

The Archdiocese responded by establishing this shelter, coordinated by the Bangalore Multipurpose Social Service Society (BMSSS) and managed by Scalabrinian missionaries. Archbishop Girelli lauded the effort, emphasizing the dignity of migrants and drawing parallels to the Indian ethos of Atithi Devo Bhava (a guest is akin to God) and Pope Francis' vision of inclusivity. “This center is a step toward affirming the dignity of migrants and showing them Christ’s love through action,” he said.

The ceremony, attended by clergy, parishioners and representatives from the Apostolic Nunciature, highlighted collaboration with the Vatican’s Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, led by Cardinal-elect Fabio Baggio. Archbishop Machado extended gratitude for the Dicastery’s support, underscoring the Church’s commitment to Gospel values of love and service.

The “Migrants Reception and Short Stay Centre” serves as a testament to the Archdiocese’s mission to support the marginalized, offering a tangible expression of Pope Francis’ words: ““Every stranger who knocks at our door is an opportunity for an encounter with Jesus Christ, who identifies with the welcomed and rejected strangers of every age.”

Courtesy: Vatican News