Pope Francis: Accept refugees do not be afraid of them

Pope Francis has called on believers not only to welcome refugees but also to personally learn from their experiences as a way to curb the "distorted" intimidation and ideologies for them.

The Pope made this appeal on Sunday as UN World Refugee Day was celebrated, which will be celebrated on Tuesday.

Speaking from his studio that looks out of St. Peter's Square, Francis has prayed for all those who have lost their lives by fleeing from war and pursuit. He said that their stories of pain and hope are an opportunity for mutual understanding.

"In reality, personal meetings with refugees can dissipate distorted fears and ideologies and become ways to increase in humanity," he said.

Francis's four-year-old papacy has been mentioned for deep solidarity and demands that states build bridges of hospitality, not walls.