Jamaica has a proud history of welcoming people from many lands with warmth and hospitality. Opening our shores and our hearts to those in need is a profound expression of Christian charity. Our Lord Jesus Christ reminds us:

"For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me." (Matthew 25:35–36)

When the righteous ask, "Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? When did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?" Christ answers, "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." (Matthew 25:37–40)