Last week, refugee turmoil in Europe reached new heights as people seeking asylum were stranded at train stations and left wondering if they would ever find a safe home. Many refugees are fleeing violence in Syria, across the Middle East, and parts of Africa. The human toll of the crisis is huge. Following the discovery of 71 bodies in a truck abandoned along the highway in Austria a few weeks ago, the image of a toddler who died last week when his boat capsized while trying to make an escape to Europe spread across the Internet.

On Sunday, Pope Francis called on Catholics across Europe to show mercy and take in the flood of refugees. The Vatican is taking the lead and will welcome two refugee families in two parishes.

The realities of war and displacement are gruesome. Our hearts are probably torn with emotions in response to these stories. Talk with young adults about the refugee crisis and close with a time of prayers for all those who are displaced and impacted by the effects of war and violence in today’s world.

• What do you think when you see the images of refugees fleeing their homeland? How do these images make you feel?
• Do you know anyone who is a refugee or a migrant? What have you learned from their experience?
• What steps can you take to learn more about the refugee crisis in Europe and what can you do to help those in need?
• What do you think of the pope’s call for Catholics to take in migrant families in Europe?
• Spend some time praying for those affected by war and violence, especially those in Syria and other parts of the Middle East.