The Pope’s message for World Day of Migrants and Refugees 2025

by Guest Contributor

Pope Leo's 111ᵗʰ World Day of Migrants and Refugees reminds us that migrants are ‘missionaries of hope,’ carrying courage, faith and renewal across borders.

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Each year, the Church pauses to remember the journeys of those forced to leave everything behind. In 2025, as we observe the 111ᵗʰ World Day of Migrants and Refugees, Pope Leo XIV challenges us to see migrants and refugees not merely as those in need, but as ‘missionaries of hope.‘ In a world scarred by war, injustice, climate crisis and inequality, he reminds us that even in darkness, those who move with courage and faith bear witness to hope. Migrants, the Pope says, carry a longing for happiness beyond borders — and they bring that hope into the communities that receive them.

In this special year, when the World Day coincides with the Jubilee of Migrants, on the 4-5th October 2025 we are invited to listen more deeply, welcome more generously and amplify stories that testify: even amid suffering, hope endures.

“Migrants and refugees stand as messengers of hope, carrying courage and faith that can revitalise communities and foster interreligious dialogue.” says Pope Leo in his message for the 111th World Day of Migrants and Refugees.

111th day of migrants and refugeesBrowse and download these helpful resources

The Columban Missionaries are deeply committed to supporting migrants and refugees. Our efforts are inspired by Catholic Social Teaching, which calls for us to ‘welcome the stranger’ and to uphold the dignity of migrants and refugees, embodying the Gospel’s call to love and serve our neighbours. In Britain, the Columbans actively engage with local projects that assist asylum seekers and refugees, offering hospitality and advocating for their rights. Through initiatives like the Faith in Action Volunteer Programme, we provide young people with opportunities to work alongside refugees, fostering intercultural understanding and solidarity.

Columban Inter-religious Coordinator in Britain Mauricio Silva explains, “On this World Day of Migrants and Refugees, we celebrate and support those who journey seeking safety and hope. Our mission calls us to accompany migrants and refugees and foster dialogue across faiths and cultures. We are reminded that solidarity with the most vulnerable, is not a task we do alone but a shared participation in God’s Mission, building bridges of understanding and compassion in our communities.”

The Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development offers a comprehensive suite of resources to support those engaged in welcoming and assisting migrants and refugees. These materials are invaluable for educators, faith leaders and community organizers seeking to deepen their understanding and enhance their outreach efforts. Besides a kit for the liturgical celebration, you’ll find prayers, ideas for gathering and suggested activities for children, young people and adults as well as colourful graphics. You are encouraged to explore these pastoral  resources to enrich your initiatives and foster a more inclusive and compassionate environment for migrants and refugees.

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Discover how the Columban Missionaries support migrants and refugees through the experiences and stories shared by our missionaries

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