An Austrian cardinal tipped to become the next Pope has warned that Europe's migrant influx 'goes beyond our capacities and possibilities'.

The Archbishop of Vienna, Christoph Schoenborn, said an 'unbelievable number' of refugees had come to Europe causing him to 'rethink' his stance on the issue.

Cardinal Schoenborn called for more support for nations in Africa and the Middle East, in the hope that migrants 'could live in their homeland again', it has been reported.

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The Archbishop of Vienna, Christoph Schoenborn, has warned that Europe's migrant influx 'goes beyond our capacities and possibilities'

The 71-year-old, one of the favourites to become the next Pope, said he had become 'more cautious' in his attitude to migration.

Schoenborn also referred to German Chancellor Angela Merkel's phrase 'Wir schaffen das' ('We will manage it') - relating to the mass influx of refugees - as he added: 'We have had to learn: This goes beyond our capacities and possibilities.'

It is not the first time the Roman Catholic cardinal has made headlines for his controversial remarks.

In September, he warned that Europe faces its biggest threat from Islam since the 17th century.

He was speaking at the Holy Name of Mary festival on Sunday which dates back to 1683 when it was first held in gratitude for the victory of the Austrian Habsburg Empire over the Ottoman Turks.

Cardinal Schoenborn called for more support for nations in Africa and the Middle East, in the hope that migrants 'could live in their homeland again', it has been reported

He reportedly said at the time: 'Will there be an Islamic conquest of Europe? Many Muslims want that and say: Europe is at the end.'

He asked God to have mercy on Europe and said the continent was 'in danger of forfeiting our Christian heritage'.

In a comment which was seen as being an endorsement of the far-right Austrian Freedom Party Cardinal Schoenborn said people were seeing their loss 'not only economically, but above all, in human and religious matters'.



