The Emigrants' Commission of the Archdiocese of Malta has for years accommodated 400 migrants in 14 residences, Archbishop Charles J Scicluna said today.

He expressed gratitude to the commission amid calls in Malta and abroad for local authorities, churches and families to host the wave of migrants streaming into Europe.

Pope Francis earlier today also urged Catholic parishes to adopt refugee families.

Following the Pope’s appeal, the Gozo Diocese in a statement recalled how Bishop Mario Grech exactly a year ago had urged parishes in Gozo to host a family of persecuted migrant Christians. 

Talks were since held with Patriarch Mar Louis Raphaël I Sako of Iraq.

The diocese said the Bishop’s appeal for hospitality was being renewed.

“The worst thing for humanity is for it to lose its humanitarian sensibility when confronted with tragedy...when it gets used to the deaths of hundreds of people in the sea around us,” Mgr Grech said.

The diocese will also host a visit by a group of Iraqi young people next year.

The Sunday Times of Malta reported earlier today that a proposal by Birżebbuġa councillor Hermann Schiavone to adopt a Syrian refugee family had garnered the support of councillors in other localities.

In a tweet, Sliema councillor Michael Briguglio (AD) said he supported the initiative and will propose the same within his council. Attard councillor Ralph Cassar (AD) also offered his backing, noting this was an opportunity to show that communities really cared.

“Good idea. Will propose a similar initiative in Siġġiewi. I’m sure we will rise to the occasion,” Mayor Karol Aquilina (PN) said in a tweet.

Mr Schiavone said he had no intention of financially burdening the local council, but he had no doubt that the Birżebbuġa community – and residents in other localities – would rise to the occasion and help raise funds.