As the European elections conclude, concerns about the results and their potential consequences are being raised. Catholic bishops in the European Union express their fears and hopes for the future of Europe, as this election is critical. Voters are not only deciding who will represent them but also providing a gauge of public opinion across the 27 member states. What we know so far is that the European Parliament is leaning further to the right.

Bishop Mariano Crociata, President of the Commission of the Bishops' Conferences of the European Union, says, “There seems to be a sense of fear, possibly stemming from the current social climate and the uncertainty surrounding an ongoing war with unpredictable outcomes. This situation is prompting people to seek security and stability amidst these challenging times.”

Speaking about the current migration crisis and the war in Ukraine, Bishop Mariano Crociata emphasizes the need for a united European Union, one that is able to welcome and integrate those who are forced to flee their homeland because of war or poverty.

More importantly, Bishop Mariano Crociata adds, there must be communication with national authorities and churches, as well as support for various diplomatic and humanitarian initiatives.

“One example,” he notes, “is the effort led by the Holy Father through Cardinal Zuppi, President of the Italian Bishops' Conference, to bring back to Ukraine the children who have been deported to Russia. Together with the Vatican, we strive to assess various situations, in this case the elections, to understand their effects. We aim to follow and support these developments for more effective dialogue.”

In a recent meeting with the Vatican’s Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin, and Secretary for Relations with States, Archbishop Paul Gallagher, the Commission of the Bishops' Conferences of the European Union gathered to discuss current concerns among their member states and how to promote the common good.

Many people are worried by the rise of nationalistic and Eurosceptic parties, the possibility of the Ukrainian war expanding into a regional conflict, and the push by some members to make a right to abortion a part of the EU’s charter of fundamental rights.

“There is an expectation from the citizens of the EU countries for responses to the issues they face every day,” Bishop Mariano Crociata says. “We all must do our part because every action can have an influence that, sooner or later, will align with bigger decisions capable of truly changing the course of events and even stopping the war. Our hope is that the European Union's voice may become stronger and be heard on the international stage.”

Adapted by Jacob Stein