Pope calls for 'effective political response' to immigration crisis

CASTEL GANDOLFO, Italy (CNS) -- Pope Benedict XVI said the global phenomenon of immigration represents a social emergency that must be faced with a sense of responsibility and humanity. He called on richer countries to be attentive especially to the needs of illegal immigrants, but said immigrants themselves must respect "the duty of legality that is valid for everyone." The pope made the remarks at his noon blessing in Castel Gandolfo Aug. 31, in a courtyard packed with cheering pilgrims. His comments came as Italy and other Mediterranean countries experienced an annual summer influx of clandestine immigrants arriving from Africa by boat. In late August, some 70 Africans were believed to have drowned between Malta and Sicily when their boat capsized. The pope said it was another example of immigrants' hopeful passage turning into tragedy.