Pope Francis released his message for the World Day of Refugees, emphasizing that it should be a person’s right to choose whether to migrate rather than a forced choice. Echoing Benedict XVI, he reminds us that the Holy Family were themselves refugees, forced to flee an untenable political situation that threatened their lives. Referencing Matthew 25, he reminds us that the refugees asking for assistance are “Christ himself.” Let us pray for the grace to always see Christ in our refugee brothers and sisters. | |
CMSM is pleased to announce a compilation of JPIC resources available for JPIC coordinators or leaders of communities in the new Member Content area of our website. If you are interested in gaining access to these resources, please email David Rohrer Budiash for instructions on how to sign up. | |
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On September 24, 2023, the Catholic Church will mark the 109th World Day of Migrants and Refugees (WMDR). This day is an invitation to reflect on the messages from the Holy Father. Resources for this occasion can be found at the Vatican’s Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development (IHD). The global community needs to work together to recognize and uphold the right of individuals to live peacefully in their homeland.
This video featuring Msgr. Anthony Ekpo of IHD and Mira Milavec discusses the freedom to migrate in relation to the war in Ukraine.
The U.S. Catholic bishops’ Justice for Immigrants Campaign (JFI) also has resources on the root causes of migration, among many others.
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'Attend to the planet and poor' Pope Francis urges college students
On his second day in Portugal, Pope Francis met with students at the Portuguese Catholic University in Lisbon, emphasizing the importance of caring for the environment and the underprivileged. The discussions centered around "integral ecology," a concept from his 2015 encyclical, Laudato Si’, which focuses on the interconnected nature of global problems. Tomás Virtuoso, a theology student, highlighted key messages from Laudato Si’, including the necessity for ethical technological progress and prioritizing the common good. Pope Francis reminded students that their education is both a privilege and a responsibility, urging them to use it to promote justice and inclusivity. He also encouraged students to redefine progress and development, warning against short-sighted solutions to environmental challenges.
Read more here.
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U.S. bishops appeal to leaders to do more to ensure food security around the globe
Bishop David J. Malloy, chairman of the USCCB’s Committee on International Justice and Peace, urged global leaders to prioritize food security, referencing the World Food Programme's estimated 258 million people facing acute hunger in 2022. Russia's decision to block Ukraine's grain exports has exacerbated this issue, especially since Ukraine, known as "Europe’s breadbasket," was a significant food supplier before the invasion. The conflict in Ukraine, natural disasters, the pandemic, and other regional wars have amplified global food insecurity. Haiti is struggling, with nearly half its population facing food shortages, while northern Ethiopia, reliant on Ukrainian grain, is grappling with drought and conflict-related hunger. Bishop Malloy emphasized the urgent need for international compassion and assistance for the hungry.
Read more here.
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Pope Francis offers condolences after fifty-five people die in Hawaii wildfires
At least 55 people died from wildfires in Maui, Hawaii, with Pope Francis expressing his condolences and solidarity. The fires, exacerbated by strong winds from Hurricane Dora, began on August 8, destroying hundreds of buildings and displacing many. The town of Lahaina was particularly affected, with significant historical and tourist value. Robert van Tassell of Catholic Charities Hawaii highlighted the urgent need for donations as over 1,200 families are now homeless. Bishop Larry Silva of Honolulu led a Zoom prayer session, with many joining to pray for the victims and first responders.
Read more here.
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Vatican secretary of state to meet refugees from Sudan in four-day visit to South Sudan
Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin visited South Sudan to meet those fleeing violence from Sudan and assess the situation of displaced persons. This visit underscores Pope Francis's care for the South Sudanese, with a focus on those most affected by regional conflicts. Parolin's agenda includes meetings with South Sudan's President Salva Kiir Mayardit, vice presidents, and other government officials and a visit to the Diocese of Rumbek. He is also scheduled to plant trees at St. Theresa Catholic Cathedral in Juba. The overarching aim is to promote peace and review the Revitalize Peace Agreement's progress in the nation.
Read more here.
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- Laudato Si Action Platform
- August 31, 2023 | 3:30pm - 5:00pm: Care for Our Common Homes: No Fossil Fuels Invest Ethically
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Read more here.
- September 5, 2023 | 6:30 to 7:30pm CT: Season of Creation Prayer Service
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Read more here.
- September 12 | 6:30pm CT: The Transformation Cannot be Stopped, Nation in Transition, and Workforce Rising.
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Read more here.
- Catholic Climate Covenant
- August 21, 2023 | 2:00 - 3:00pm ET: A Heated Conversation
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Read more here.
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