Rome, Italy, Aug 30, 2010 / 18:54 pm
In reference to France's recent expulsion of immigrants living in the country, Archbishop Agostino Marchetto emphasized God's desire for “decent” lives and the “common good” of all peoples.
On Saturday, Archbishop Marchetto, the secretary for the Pontifical Council for Migrants and Itinerant Peoples, observed his namesake's feast day at the Church of St. Augustine in Rome. The same day, the prelate also celebrated his own birthday.
The archbishop has been particularly vocal recently in criticizing the French government for its policies directed specifically at Gypsies and those of Roma ethnic origins.
French President Nicolas Sarkozy's government has cracked down on their caravan camps, disbanding the encampments and offering a pay off to those willing to be sent home this month. According to French news reports, in September the policy will change to one of deportation without compensation.