The Church has celebrated World Day for Migrants and Refugees since 1914 as an occasion to express concern for many different vulnerable people on the move; to pray for the challenges migration presents, and to increase awareness about the opportunities that migration offers.
This year’s theme, “It is not just about migrants” chosen by Pope Francis for the Sept. 29 observance, opens the door for examination of the fears we may have about welcoming the stranger and making sure no one remains excluded from society.
Five sub-themes, cultivated from the pope’s message for the 105th World Day, are highlighted for special reflection: fears, charity, humanity, seeing that no one is excluded, and putting the last in first place.
Read a statement from Bishop Joe S. Vásquez of Austin, Chairman of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on Migration.
Caring for migrants and refugees:
How you can help
Articles and op-eds:
The human consequences of our immigration policies (The Boston Globe)
Additional resources
Michigan Catholic Conference welcomes House Resolution in Support of Welcoming Afghan Refugees to Michigan (Oct. 5, 2021)
