Francis I greets Muslim migrants on Ramadan

Pope Francis, on the eve of the holy month of Ramadan, Monday said Muslim migrants in Italy had the support of the Catholic Church. ‘I sent heartfelt greetings to dear Muslim immigrants who, this evening (Monday), will begin the Ramadan fast, and wish them abundant spiritual rewards,’ Pope Francis said as he held mass on the tiny Italian island of Lampedusa. 

‘The Church is close to you in your search for better lives for yourselves and your families,’ Francis said. during his visit to Lampedusa, his first outside Romeas pontiff, Francis said he came to the island to ‘awaken consciences’. Around 15,000 people attended the mass. 

Lampedusa is the main European arrival point for migrants from north africa. thousands of migrants arrive on the island each year by boat during the summer months. thousands of migrants have drowned or died of dehydration during the dangerous journey.