Cara Walker: "Australia has always been a land of migration and hope."
In this video, Cara Walker, Office and Hospitality Coordinator at the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference, reflects on the message of Pope Leo XIV for the World Day of Migrants and Refugees 2025: “Migrants, missionaries of hope.”
Back to the 111th World Day of Migrants and Refugees 2025 Online Resources.
Bloom Where God Planted You
Twelve years ago, I found myself among the Celtics and Scotts – a 10-month immersion in the diverse culture of the Blessed Sacrament Communities. This experience led me to a multitude of realisations and a lingering question: Where was God leading me?
Now, nearly three years into my journey in Australia, I remain a neophyte and stranger in this multicultural land. Yet, a beautiful reminder continues to echo within me: Bloom where you are planted. This new chapter has opened a horizon of missionary work. It is not about “me,” but about the One who sent me. As the prophet Jeremiah wrote: “Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.” (Jer 1:5)
The life of a migrant-missionary is indeed bittersweet – not to impose, but to propose, always in the light of evangelisation. Being sent to various parishes in the Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn brings forth the question and inspiration: What can I share with your people? Self-doubt often arises from the limitations of my being, like Peter who said, “Stay away from me, Lord, for I am a sinner!” (Lk 5:8). Yet, the Divine seems to whisper again and again: “Don’t be afraid! I am with you.” (Mt 28:20) “Come, follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” (Mt 4:19)
As Saint Paul reminds us in his letter to the Romans: “Hope does not disappoint.” (Rom 5:5) Every parochial experience has been a testimony to God’s love, mercy, and compassion. It is not me, but Him. I carry with me the beautiful mantra: “The joy of the Gospel fills the hearts and lives of all who encounter Jesus.” (Evangelii Gaudium 1) This is both an inspiration and a challenge – to be a vessel through which others can feel the presence of the Divine.
Ryan Macalandag: "The story of each migrant is a very special one."
In this video, Ryan Macalandag, Media and Communications Officer at the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference, reflects on the message of Pope Leo XIV for the World Day of Migrants and Refugees 2025: “Migrants, missionaries of hope.”
Back to the 111th World Day of Migrants and Refugees 2025 Online Resources.