Pope Leo XIV has issued a heartfelt message ahead of the 111th World Day of Migrants and Refugees, to be marked on 4–5 October. The occasion will coincide with a special Jubilee event in Rome, gathering migrants and missionaries from around the world.
The Pope’s message, titled Migrants, missionaries of hope, highlights the courage and faith of migrants who continue to journey in the face of war, injustice, poverty, and environmental disasters.
“In a world darkened by war and injustice, even when all seems lost, migrants and refugees stand as messengers of hope,” the message states. The Pope describes their resilience as a testimony to faith and spiritual strength, especially for those travelling dangerous migration routes.
Pope Leo notes that ongoing conflicts, economic hardship, and climate-related crises are forcing millions to flee their homelands. He warns that growing selfishness and focus on national interests are damaging global cooperation and solidarity, and making it harder to care for the common good.
“The world is facing serious threats,” he says, citing the development of advanced weapons, disregard for the climate crisis, and rising inequality. In light of these challenges, he calls on people of faith to long for peace and dignity for all – a future in line with God’s vision for humanity.
Pope Leo also draws a direct connection between migration and Christian hope. He points out that many migrants and refugees are living examples of hope, holding on to their faith as they seek a better future.
These individuals, he says, serve as a reminder that the Church itself is always on a journey – moving toward its eternal home. Catholic migrants can bring renewed energy to the Church, especially in places where spiritual life has become weak or stagnant.
He also praises their ability to bring faith to new regions, contribute to interreligious dialogue, and enrich local churches with their joy and commitment. “Their presence should be seen as a blessing,” the Pope says, “an opportunity to receive the grace of God.”
The Pope encourages communities that welcome migrants to be signs of hope too, by recognising the dignity of every person as a child of God. This includes offering migrants the chance to share their talents and take part fully in church and community life.
Concluding his message, Pope Leo entrusted all migrants, refugees, and those who support them to the care of the Virgin Mary. He prayed that she would keep hope alive in their hearts and help build a world that reflects the Kingdom of God, the true home promised to all believers.
Adapted from AsiaNews.it.
