“I was a stranger and you welcomed me.” (Matthew 25:35)
In his first encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas, Pope Leo XIV calls us to protect “the rightful hopes of those forced to leave” by ensuring safe and legal routes, dignified welcome, and genuine pathways to integration.
Each day we see the suffering caused by war, persecution and poverty, and the dangerous journeys many undertake in search of safety. At the same time, hostility towards refugees and migrants is growing, often fuelled by fear and misinformation. At the heart of the Gospel is a simple truth: every person is precious, because God is present in everyone. Welcoming people seeking safety is an integral part of our faith: it is a response to the dignity God has placed in every human life.
Pope Francis reminded us of this mission in Fratelli Tutti, urging us not to give in to fear “fomented and exploited for political purposes”, but to uphold “the inalienable dignity of each human person” and the law of fraternal love.
This year’s Refugee Week theme, Courage, celebrates the resilience and hope of those seeking sanctuary. Across our Catholic parishes and schools, we are blessed by the faith, gifts and contributions of refugees, migrants, and all who have travelled far to build a new life in safety and serve our communities. Refugee Week is an opportunity to come together in friendship and solidarity through shared meals, music, sport, art and prayer, celebrating our common humanity in Christ.
Events are taking place across the region, from Penzance to Bournemouth. You can find local events at refugeeweek.org or by searching “Refugee Week what’s on” with your town name.
By taking part in activities for Refugee Week, we can offer a visible witness of Catholic welcome, compassion and hope.