102nd World Day of Migrants and Refugees, 17th January 2016

Pope Francis shared his message to honour the World Day of Migrants and Refugees, on the 12^th of September, 2015. His speech was entitled “Migrants and Refugees Challenge Us. The Response of the Gospel of Mercy,” which is especially apt in this Jubilee Year of Mercy.
Speaking of a time when migration continues unabated as people risk modern slavery and death in order to escape from war-torn countries, Pope Francis reminds us that “Today, more than in the past, the Gospel of mercy troubles our consciences, prevents us from taking the suffering of others for granted and points out ways of responding which, grounded in the theological virtues of faith, hope and charity, find practical expression in works of spiritual and corporal mercy.”
Acknowledging the challenges faced by refugees, migrants and host societies, Pope Francis places the importance of hospitality within the biblical context, as we are encouraged to offer welcome and sanctuary to those most in need of our help. In doing so, our encounter with migrants and refugees is truly an encounter with Christ himself.
In imparting his Apostolic blessing, Pope Francis entrust us to the Virgin Mary, Mother of migrants and refugees and to St. Joseph, who experienced the hardships of emigration first-hand in the Holy Family’s flight into Egypt.
Full address is available at: Messages World Day of Migrants and Refugees
 
Prepared by Anne Kelleher, RENATE Communications Person