What Can the Church Do to Make Migrants and Refugees Feel at Home?

The Catholic Church in Delhi has called for greater solidarity with migrants, refugees and displaced people, emphasising their dignity and the need for compassionate support. The appeal was made by Auxiliary Bishop Deepak Valerian Tauro of Delhi during a Mass marking the 112th World Day of Migrants and Refugees on September 27 at Sacred Heart Cathedral. Fifteen priests involved in migrant ministry in Delhi concelebrated the Eucharistic celebration. In his homily, Bishop Tauro encouraged Christians to recognise migrants and refugees as brothers and sisters who share the same human dignity as everyone else. He urged the faithful to translate this belief into practical concern and support for people who are living away from their homes. Following the Mass, the CCBI Commission for Migrants organised a programme at DCA Hall in the Archdiocese of Delhi. Around 400 people from different sections of society participated in the gathering. Fr. Stephen Alathara encouraged participants to become “missionaries for migrants” by developing greater openness and sensitivity toward people on the move. He noted that migrants can face vulnerability during their journeys regardless of their educational or social background. Fr. Jaison Vadassery, Executive Secretary of the CCBI Commission for Migrants, highlighted Delhi’s large migrant population. He encouraged people to support migrants through prayer, attentive listening and practical assistance. Sr. Vineetha, National Secretary of the Conference of Religious India, also called for greater sensitivity toward migrants and refugees. She reflected on the personal experiences and stories carried by people who leave their homes and communities. The gathering also focused particularly on children. Adv. Sr. Rani, Regional Secretary of the Commission, reflected on the year's theme, “Even Just One of These Children,” stressing the importance of protecting children and supporting their overall development regardless of their migration status. Ms. Grace from Manipur shared experiences of hardship faced by the Manipuri community and expressed appreciation for the support received from the CCBI Commission for Migrants. Fr. Stanislaus Alla of Vidya Jyoti Theologate also highlighted the importance of protecting migrants. The programme concluded with a special gesture toward children from migrant communities, who were felicitated and presented with gifts. The gathering reinforced the Church’s call to accompany migrants and refugees through welcome, listening, prayer and practical assistance. It also highlighted the importance of ensuring that vulnerable people, particularly children, receive dignity, protection and opportunities to develop.