The 102nd World Day of Migrants and Refugees will be celebrated January 17, 2016. The theme of Pope Francis’ Message is « Migrants and refugees challenge us: The response of the Gospel of mercy ». In his Message, the Holy Father says that « migrants are our brothers and sisters in search of a better life, far away from poverty, hunger, exploitation and the unjust distribution of the planet’s resources which are meant to be equitably shared by all. Don’t we all want a better, more decent and prosperous life to share with our loved ones? »

Source: Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops

Explaining the pope’s choice for the theme, the Pontifical Council for Migrants and Travelers said the pope first wants to draw Catholics’ attention to « the dramatic situation of many men and women forced to abandon their homelands. »

In calling a Year of Mercy beginning Dec. 8, Pope Francis said it would be a time to overcome indifference to the needs of others, the council said. « Let us open our eyes and see the misery of the world, the wounds of our brothers and sisters who are denied their dignity, and let us recognize that we are compelled to heed their cry for help, » the pope wrote in the document proclaiming the year. The theme’s reference to « the Gospel of mercy, » aims « explicitly to tie the phenomenon of migration to the response of the world and, especially, of the church. In this context, the Holy Father invites the Christian people to reflect during the jubilee year on the corporal and spiritual works of mercy, which includes welcoming the stranger. »

Source: Catholic Diocese of Kumbo, Bamenda, Cameroon   Pic: EPA Vatican, In a camp, refugees are wading through water