Apostolic Nuncio urges South Africans to show compassion to migrants and refugees while respecting law, dignity, and human rights.
Newsroom (08/07/2026 Gaudium Press ) The Apostolic Nuncio to South Africa, Archbishop Henryk Mieczysław Jagodziński, has called on South Africans to respond to undocumented migrants and refugees with compassion and respect for human dignity amid growing tensions surrounding immigration in the country.
Speaking in an interview with the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference (SACBC) communications office after celebrating Mass with the Polish Catholic community at St Joseph the Worker Catholic Church in Johannesburg, Archbishop Jagodziński said migration remains a complex issue that requires both effective governance and a commitment to protecting the dignity of every person.
His remarks come as migrant communities continue to experience uncertainty and fear following recent anti-migrant demonstrations in parts of South Africa.
The Vatican diplomat emphasized that laws should serve and protect human dignity for all people, including immigrants, while cautioning against the mistreatment or oppression of non-citizens. He stressed that democratic societies must be guided by the rule of law and that immigration matters should be addressed through proper legal and governmental processes.
Archbishop Jagodziński also acknowledged that South Africans have a right to voice concerns about immigration. However, he noted that decisions regarding migration policy and enforcement belong to state authorities rather than individual citizens.
Reflecting on the realities of migration, the Archbishop said that people leave their countries for a variety of reasons and that each migrant has a unique personal story. He urged South Africans to avoid discrimination based on a person’s legal status and instead cultivate a spirit of mercy, understanding, and solidarity.
Referencing the message of Pope Leo XIV, Archbishop Jagodziński reminded Catholics of the Gospel’s call to welcome and care for strangers, particularly those who are vulnerable or displaced.
The Archbishop delivered his message during a visit to the Polish Catholic community at St Joseph the Worker Catholic Church in Norwood, where he concelebrated Mass with Bishop Jan Piotrowski of the Diocese of Kielce and President of the Commission for Missions of the Polish Bishops’ Conference.
At the conclusion of the Eucharistic celebration, Archbishop Jagodziński described the Norwood community as a living reflection of migration history. Established in 1968, the community was largely formed by Polish migrants who settled in South Africa during and after the Second World War, as well as those who left Poland during the period of martial law in the 1980s.
He noted that other members of the community had moved to South Africa for educational opportunities, employment, or marriage and commended the group for maintaining strong traditions of worship, fellowship, and cultural identity. The Archbishop also highlighted the growth of religious vocations among Polish communities and acknowledged the ministry of Polish priests and religious sisters serving in South Africa.
For Bishop Piotrowski, the visit marked his first encounter with the Polish Catholic community in Johannesburg. He described the experience as both joyful and encouraging, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate Mass with the congregation.
Addressing the broader issue of undocumented immigration, Bishop Piotrowski said migration is not only a South African challenge but a global one affecting countries across Europe and beyond. He called on people to embrace the Christian understanding that all people are brothers and sisters and emphasized the importance of welcoming and supporting migrants despite the difficulties such realities can present.
The Polish bishop noted that the acceptance of immigrants remains a significant challenge in many parts of the world, including Poland and other European countries, underscoring the universal nature of migration debates and concerns.
Despite the challenges facing South Africa, Bishop Piotrowski expressed optimism about the country’s capacity for compassion and inclusion. He praised the generosity of the South African people and voiced hope that there would be space for all who seek to build a life in the country.
The messages delivered by both Catholic leaders focused on balancing legitimate concerns about immigration with respect for human dignity, legal processes, and Christian compassion. As debates over migration continue in South Africa, they urged citizens and policymakers alike to approach the issue with understanding, humanity, and a commitment to the common good.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from ACI Africa
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