Perspectief 2017-36

2017-36 JT Chapter 4: Conclusion 41 Reageer express a profound appreciation for the dignity of all human beings, and apply this rationale to refugees. Precisely this common concern for the universal human good and the protection of the dignity of the person provides a common horizon for action. Thus, on a practical level, the churches believe themselves to have a prophetic presence in this world. Yet as we have seen, members from both churches prophesy broadly two scenarios. While both the Roman Catholic Church and the Lutheran World Federation regard resettlement as inevitable and see the arrival of foreigners as an opportunity to live out one’s Christian faith more deeply through charitable actions, some groups and individuals within these churches foresee an invasion of the Judaeo-Christian European and North American continent by Islam and advocate aid in the refugees’ regions of origin rather than resettlement. The line dividing the two positions runs through each church, separating bishops, politicians and theologians on the issue. It seems imperative that the various parties engage in dialogue in order to attempt to navigate between charity and prudence. Adopting the refugees’ dignity as the primary benchmark would make this navigation possible.