A striking symbol of welcome and faith will “set sail” on Sunday, as the Jubilee Migrant Cross is formally launched at St Christopher’s Cathedral in Canberra to mark the 111th World Day for Migrants and Refugees. Source: Catholic Voice.
The launch marks the beginning of a year-long national pilgrimage, recognising the contributions of Australia’s migrant and refugee communities.
“This is an opportunity for the Church to honour the vital role of migrants and refugees,” said Canberra-Goulburn Archbishop Christopher Prowse, who is bishop delegate for migrants and refugees.
“We are very much in the Jubilee Year of Pilgrims of Hope. One of the initiatives taking shape now is highlighting the great contributions that migrants and refugees make to Australia.”
Crafted from Australian recycled timber and set on a boat-shaped base, the Jubilee Migrant Cross carries deep symbolism.
“This cross will move through 28 dioceses – a migrant and refugee cross set on a boat, symbolising the pilgrimage we are all on.”
“The cross represents the journey of migrants, and the boat represents the Church as a pilgrimage toward a safe harbour,” said Fr Khalid Marogi, National Director of the Australian Catholic Migrant and Refugee Office.
At its centre are the Southern Cross constellation and relics of the Holy Family and Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop, reflecting the faith that unites communities across generations.
Fr Marogi said the cross acknowledges the gifts and resilience of migrants.
“My hope is that this cross allows our wider community to see migrants as people who contribute to the Church and enrich our society.”
Launching this Sunday, the Jubilee Migrant Cross shines as a national sign of welcome and a testament to Australia’s enduring commitment to community, compassion, and inclusion.
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Jubilee Migrant Cross embarks on National Pilgrimage to celebrate Migrants and Refugees (By Jeanine Doyle, Catholic Voice)
