Migration: A Theological Vision

Abstract

Migration is a global phenomenon that is a defining issue of our times. Scholars study migration’s multidimensionality, but behind the complex and often contentious realities are people and their stories—stories of what is most important in the human heart, namely relationships. A theological perspective on migration begins with the notion that justice involves the search for right relationships. The theological concepts, of human dignity, solidarity, communion, and conversion, address four critical obstacles to right relationships, specifically negativism, narcissism, nationalism, and ultimately nihilism. A theological vision of migration challenges us to move beyond an identity based on a narrow sense of national, racial, or psychological territoriality. It offers the possibility of defining life on the expansive spiritual terrain consistent with the kingdom of God.

This article is drawn in part from previously published essays entitled, Daniel G. Groody, “Crossing the Divide: Foundations of a Theology of Migration and Refugees,” Theological Studies (September 2009): 638–667 and Daniel G. Groody, “Homeward Bound: A Theology of Migration,” Journal for Catholic Social Thought 9, no. 2 (Summer 2012): 409–424.