The leader of Britain's Coptic Christians has called for refugees and other displaced people to be helped to return to their homelands if that is what they wish.
Bishop Angaelos, General Bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church, says in a response to the refugee crisis that it is important that Christians recognise their role and what they represent in the crisis.
"The Incarnation of our Lord Jesus Christ is pivotal to our Faith and is the most powerful demonstration of what it means to provide for the needs of others who find themselves in exile, away from their rightful homelands," he said.
All humans are victims of the separation from God caused by the weakness of humanity. "Having said that, the Incarnation of our Lord was not only intended to make humanity feel comfortable in the world (John 17:14-15), but to provide a safe and viable route back to its rightful original place in His Kingdom."
Bishop Angaelos said it was essential to provide for the humanitarian needs of the vulnerable, both internally and externally displaced. "Our longer-term vision must then be to restore them, if that is their desire, to the lands they have occupied for generations, and in which their heritage and identity lies; a restoration that is founded upon dignity, equality, safety and prosperity."
