“…I was a stranger and you welcomed me.” (Matthew 25:35)
Each year the Church marks the World Day of Migrants and Refugees, drawing attention to one of the greatest challenges of our time. Pope Francis chose this Jubilee year’s theme: “Migrants, missionaries of hope.”
For millions of people, migration is not a choice but a necessity. War, persecution, political instability, and increasingly the effects of climate change force people to leave their homes in search of safety and stability. On their journeys they often face uncertainty, marginalisation and even hostility. And yet, Pope Francis and Pope Leo remind us, the very act of moving forward in hope is itself a witness of courage and faith. Migrants bring not only their struggles but also their gifts — enriching host communities and calling all of us to deeper solidarity.
As the Season of Creation draws to a close, all are warmly invited to join us and hear from speakers from Caritas, CAFOD, and the Ecological Conversion Group to reflect on how we as the Catholic community can respond. Speakers will share powerful insights:
- John Paul de Quay will show how our everyday lifestyles are linked to global environmental destruction and forced migration – and how small changes can have a positive impact.
- Richard Sloman, CAFOD’s Country Representative for Bangladesh, will speak about supporting migrants who face abuse and exploitation as they seek work overseas due in part to climate-induced poverty. The work of CAFOD and OKUP brings hope through supported reintegration.
- Alex Miranda, Caritas Diocese of Plymouth, will reflect on Love the Stranger, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference’s call to a faith-based response of welcome and solidarity.
Their stories remind us that migration is not an abstract issue, but about people — brothers and sisters in Christ — whose hope can renew our own faith.
As parishes, schools, and communities of faith, we are invited to:
- Pray for migrants and refugees, and for the understanding to welcome them.
- Learn about the causes of forced migration, from climate change to conflict.
- Act locally by supporting refugees and migrants in our communities, speaking out for justice, and working with organisations dedicated to protecting the vulnerable.
By welcoming the stranger, we are not only responding the Christian mandate to address need, but also taking concrete steps towards what Pope Francis calls the “universal brotherhood of man.” Migrants truly are missionaries of hope — and through them, we are called to be missionaries of hope too.
📅 25th Sept 6-7:30pm
💻 Registration essential: https://forms.office.com/e/xLCdVxiBAh