Archbishop appeals for action to overcome homelessness

Monday November 25th 2024

In a new video, Archbishop Michael Jackson is encouraging people to consider what they can do to support those who are homelessness and to serve neighbours who feel especially vulnerable.

As Christmas comes closer, many more people in Ireland than was the case last year are living without a roof or a home or are at risk of losing their own place of comfort, warmth and safety.

Archbishop Jackson, Chair of the Church and Society Commission, encourages viewers to consider what they can do to help, as part of their social responsibility and concern.

Suggestions from the Commission’s current resource on the issue – Sharing hope with people without a home – include providing fruit and vegetables for families and individuals who may have a need for better nutrition due to their household’s circumstances, and welcoming people to parish social activities.

The Commission is asking leaders in parishes to remember, above all else, that each person experiencing homelessness is unique, facing unique challenges, and deserves compassion and respect. The best response will be guided by requests expressed by professionals working in this area with whom parishes are asked to make contact, to discuss and offer support.

Every parish in every part of the island can take some small action, bearing in mind that homelessness is also a rural challenge although it can be less visible in that setting.

Advent is a very appropriate time for praying for all homeless people worldwide as we approach the Season of Christmas in which God came to Earth as a vulnerable baby.

Archbishop Jackson also encourages advocacy by voters on homelessness, as the Irish general election approaches at the end of next week. This call to be a voice, on behalf of people without a home, runs alongside the Commission’s response to the draft Programme for Government for Northern Ireland which calls on the Executive to target its finances on meeting social need.