The Archbishop of Dublin has said he's horrified at the "emergence of a new language of racism" in Ireland.
Diarmuid Martin was speaking during a service in Bonnybrook to mark the beginning of the advent season.
During his homily at the Church of Saint Joseph the Artisan, he said: "I think of the emergence of a new language of racism, at times understated in its expression but just as nasty in its effects on men and women who need our help, our care and our respect.
"I am horrified to find traces of such racism among believers. The terms 'refugee' and 'asylum seeker' should only arouse heartfelt concern in the Christian heart."
He added that 'we need to be on our guard' to avoid the emergence of a culture which "plays down the significance of new life and the value of each life".
Elsewhere, Archbishop Martin said he was thinking of those "burdened by homelessness and poverty, intolerance and discrimination, suffering and anxiety".
He also referenced the ongoing gang violence in Dublin, stating: "I think of the renewed violence on our streets and the callousness of those who feel they can intimidate our society into weakening our opposition to that business of death that is the drug trade."
