Pope issues visionary message for World Migrants and Refugee Day
Sunday 25th September 2022Pope Francis has released an inspiring message for the celebration of the 108th World Migrant and Refugee Day.
His visionary letter begins by contemplating our earthly journey to our true homeland – the “new Jerusalem” – a city where “God dwells with men.”
Referencing St Paul’s letter to the Hebrews, Pope Francis talks of a world under construction; a world that must reflect this “new Jerusalem” by offering peace and dignity to all; a world that must be brought about by us: the labourers.
A central part of building this “new Jerusalem” is to embrace all of our brothers and sisters across the world, many of whom are migrants, refugees, trafficked, or displaced people, for “without them, it would not be the Kingdom God wants”.
He said: “Building the future with migrants and refugees also means recognizing and valuing how much each of them can contribute to the process of construction. I like to see this approach to migration reflected in a prophetic vision of Isaiah, which considers foreigners not invaders or destroyers, but willing labourers who rebuild the walls of the new Jerusalem, that Jerusalem whose gates are open to all peoples (cf. Is 60:10-11).”
Pope Francis reminds us of the wealth of gifts, talents, and personal strengths that are inherent in each and every person, and that these gifts and talents are welcome, valuable additions to our parish, local, and global communities.
He said: “Thanks to them, we have the chance to know better our world and its beautiful diversity. We can grow in our common humanity and build together an ever greater sense of togetherness.
“Openness to one another creates spaces of fruitful exchange between different visions and traditions, and opens minds to new horizons. It also leads to a discovery of the richness present in other religions and forms of spirituality unfamiliar to us, and this helps us to deepen our own convictions.”
Speaking of places around the world that have embraced the arrival of refugees, Pope Francis speaks passionately of communities that have been revitalized with renewed energy and enthusiasm, reminding us that our own parishes can take up the “privileged opportunity for experiencing more fully the catholicity of the People of God.”
You can read Pope Francis’ message in full by clicking here.
Caritas Diocese of Salford
As we remember all migrants, refugees, trafficked, and displaced people in our prayers today, we thank Caritas Diocese of Salford for its continued work in supporting those seeking safety in our own diocese through its Community Sponsorship Programme.
You can find out more about the programme and how you can get involved and support families in your community here: https://www.caritassalford.org.uk/service-view/community-sponsorship-of-refugees/
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