The Australian Catholic Migrant and Refugee Office has published online resources to help Catholic communities, parishes and schools mark the World Day of Migrants and Refugees. Source: ACMRO.
In a heartfelt message for the 110th World Day of Migrants and Refugees on September 29, Pope Francis emphasises the Church’s commitment to walking alongside migrants and refugees.
The message for the theme “God walks with his people,” draws parallels between the biblical Exodus and the journeys of modern-day migrants.
Pope Francis highlights the synodal dimension of the Church, describing it as a joint journey of the People of God, akin to the migration towards the Kingdom of Heaven.
The Pope compares the Israelites’ journey from slavery to freedom and the struggles faced by contemporary migrants, emphasising God’s presence and guidance.
“God not only walks with his people, but also within them, in the sense that he identifies himself with men and women on their journey through history, particularly with the least, the poor and the marginalised,” the Pope says.
Pope Francis highlights the importance of recognising migrants as a living image of God’s people on their way to the eternal homeland. He calls for a renewed commitment to walking together with migrants, seeing in them the face of Christ, and offering support and compassion.
Archbishop Christopher Prowse, chair of the Bishops Commission for Evangelisation, Laity and Ministry, said the Pope’s message “draws a poignant parallel between the biblical Exodus and the journeys of modern-day migrants, highlighting their shared experiences of fleeing from oppression, abuse, insecurity, discrimination, and lack of opportunities”.
Australian Catholic Migrant and Refugee Office director Fr Khalid Marogi said the online resources will help Catholic communities mark the day on September 29.
The Migrants and Refugees 2024 webpage includes liturgy resources for primary and secondary schools, homily notes, prayers of intercession, and parish bulletin notices.
Details: https://acmro.catholic.org.au/wdmr/2024
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Resources published for World Day of Migrants and Refugees (ACMRO)
