Canada set to deport Catholic family to dangerous situation

(Vatican Radio) The Catholic community in Montreal, Canada, has gathered around one of their families to support an appeal of a deportation order issued to them for October 11.

Hilary Fuh-Cham and his wife fled from their village in rural Cameroon seven years ago, where they refused to engage in the tribal practices. The threats and dangers that ensued led them to seek the freedom to practice their Catholic faith in safety in Canada.

However, their appeal was denied last month and a deportation order was issued. Despite having a third appeal in process with Citizenship and Immigration Canada, the Canadian Border Services still plan to deport them on October 11.

In a last-ditch effort before the deportation date, the family is expected to go before a federal court on Tuesday. The court will decide whether the deportation order will be stayed until an official decision on the third appeal is issued.

On Sunday afternoon, a prayer vigil will be held for the Fuh-Cham family at Mary Queen of the World Cathedral at 2 p.m.

Mr. Fuh-Cham told Vatican Radio that his wife and Canadian-born children are petrified about the imminent prospect of going to Cameroon, and their faith is the only thing they can hold on to. He shared with us the perils he believes await him and his family upon their arrival in Cameroon.

Listen to the interview:

Report and interview by Laura Ieraci