The Conference of European Churches (CEC), together with the Churches’ Commission for Migrants in Europe (CCME), has called on churches across Europe to commemorate refugees and migrants who lost their lives while seeking safety at European borders.
Ahead of the World Refugee Day on 20 June, churches are encouraged to hold services, prayers, and vigils on 21 June in memory of those who died on migration routes to Europe. The initiative continues a long-standing ecumenical tradition of remembrance and solidarity.
The joint appeal expresses concern over continued deaths at Europe’s borders and the suffering faced by people seeking protection.
“In this period after Easter filled with hope and light intended for all humankind, we continue to be deeply saddened that suffering, hopelessness and death continue for thousands of our brothers and sisters on the outer borders of the European Union and wider Europe,” the appeal states.
As implementation of the European Union’s asylum and migration pact approaches, the signatories warn that restrictive migration policies may force more people onto dangerous routes. They also raise concern over the criminalisation of humanitarian support and search and rescue activities.
The accompanying factsheet notes that around 2,200 people lost their lives in and around the Mediterranean in 2025 alone. Since 2014, more than 34,000 people are reported to have died while attempting to reach Europe.
“As churches, organisations and Christians, our calling at this crucial point is to be witnesses and servants of the Resurrection, as well as promoters of new life in justice and peace for all, regardless of ethnicity, nationality or religion,” the letter says.
Churches across Europe continue to respond through practical solidarity and support for safe and legal pathways for refugees and migrants.
The appeal builds on earlier commitments by CEC. Its General Assembly in 2013 renewed the call for churches “to commemorate those who have died on their journey to find a dignified life in Europe through an annual day of prayer.”
The joint call is signed by Rev. Frank-Dieter Fischbach, General Secretary of CEC, and Dr Torsten Moritz, General Secretary of CCME.
CEC continues to support churches advocating for dignity, solidarity, and protection for people on the move.