Pope Francis has heard the calls of the marginalised and displaced worldwide. He has called on the Church and humanity at large to open their doors and their hearts to the plight of those who have suffered the most from conflicts driven by greed and injustice. 

The staff and refugees served by the Jesuit Refugee Service thank him for hearing us - for addressing this current global crisis of conflict and persecution which has driven 60 million people to flee for their lives causing an age of unprecedented displacement in our world’s history. These 60 million people are often characterised as numbers on a page. Their stories, emotions and the aspects of life that make them human are unheeded. 

In anticipation of the Holy Father’s visit to Kenya and Uganda in late November 2015, we are bringing 12 stories out of 60 million – allowing their voices to be heard as they call on to the Church to drive the world forward into a more peaceful and inclusive future. 

They have crossed manmade borders of Uganda and Kenya where they seek, not only their rights to protection, but also spiritual guidance, opportunities to learn and grow as well as recognition from their host communities. More than anything, they look forward to the day when they can return home after the present destruction in their home countries of Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Somalia and South Sudan ceases.

We ask Pope Francis to remember their messages as he journeys through this land and engages with citizens, refugees and world leaders. We ask him to continue to encourage inter-religious dialogue over discrimination; help us to spread generosity instead of greed; and let justice reign over violence.

Your Holiness, you have been an outstanding advocate for the displaced. On behalf of the refugees served by the Jesuit Refugee Service, Pontifex, continue to hear us.