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In this edition:
| Pope Francis will be Remembered for his Deep Concern Over Migrants and Refugees
| Church Encouraging Parishes, Schools, and Agencies to Mark World Refugee Day on 20 June
| Multicultural Mass Celebrates Faith and Community in Canberra
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The Australian Catholic Migrant and Refugee Office (ACMRO), along with the global community, pays tribute to the life, leadership, and service of Pope Francis. He will be remembered for championing the cause of those in the margins, which include migrants and refugees.
The plight of migrants and refugees was one of the top priorities of Pope Francis’ 12-year papacy. As the son of Italian immigrants living in Argentina, he was a steadfast and tireless advocate for migrants and refugees, urging the global community to be compassionate and offer respect, dignity, and assistance to those seeking a better life. He has reminded us through his words and actions that we are all brothers and sisters, bound together by our loving God. He continued to be a voice of clarity and conscience, a reminder of our need for a society that is compassionate and just.
Pope Francis advocated for the human rights and dignity of people on the move in his final Urbi et Orbi message on Easter Sunday, the day before he passed away: “How much contempt is stirred up at times towards the vulnerable, the marginalised, and migrants! On this day, I would like all of us to hope anew and to revive our trust in others, including those who are different than ourselves, or who come from distant lands, bringing unfamiliar customs, ways of life and ideas!”
The world will continue to hear his voice and be reminded of the Gospel’s invitation to “welcome the stranger” as his legacy endures:
• “Migrants are not a threat to be feared; they are brothers and sisters to be welcomed.” (2015)
• “The refugee is not a number, he is a man, he is a woman, he is a child, a family, a people who are suffering.” (2016)
• “The Church cannot be herself without the immigrant.” (2017)
• “It is possible to see in the migrants of our time, as in those of every age, a living image of God’s people on their way to the eternal homeland.” (2024)
• “Many migrants and refugees bear witness to hope through their trust in God.” (2025)
Pope Francis left behind a legacy of compassion, justice, and dignity – especially for migrants and refugees. The ACMRO will continue to uphold, and advocate for, these values.
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To assist parishes, schools, and agencies with praying for refugees, spreading awareness, and promoting their rights and well-being, especially in the upcoming World Refugee Day (WRD) on 20 June, the ACMRO and the Office for Justice, Ecology and Peace (OJEP) has developed a comprehensive suite of resources.
WRD is a global event dedicated to honouring the strength, courage, and resilience of millions of refugees worldwide, and the Church is encouraging all people to welcome, promote, accompany, and integrate those who knock on our doors.
Archbishop Christopher Prowse, chair of the Bishops Commission for Evangelisation, Laity and Ministry and the Bishop delegate for ACMRO, said: “I encourage our parishes, schools, and various church agencies to continue praying, raising awareness and open their doors during this Jubilee Year of Hope to refugees fleeing persecution, war, and hunger, and traveling with hope for a better life.”
To read the full ACBC Media Statement, please click here.
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The Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn celebrated its annual Multicultural Mass at Saint Christopher’s Cathedral on 6 April, coinciding with the last Sunday of Lent.
In his homily, Canberra and Goulburn Archbishop Christopher Prowse acknowledged the vitally important contributions of Australia’s migrant and refugee communities. “Your love of Jesus, your devotion to family life, your faith in marriage, and your unique and inspiring stories enrich our church and our nation,” he said.
Archbishop Prowse also highlighted multiculturalism’s positive impact, noting, “Australia is a mix of ancient traditions and new beginnings, with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples alongside the newer Australians.” He also took the opportunity to remind the congregation, especially during the time of the federal election, of the essential role compassion must play in shaping discussions around migration.
With acknowledgement and thanks to the Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn’s Catholic Voice, where this article originally appeared.
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