2024 Message from the Catholic Commission for Migrants, Refugees and People on the Move
“God Walks with His People”
According to the UN, at least 117 million people are currently forced to flee their homes due to war, persecution and human rights violations. For a variety of other reasons, 281 million people have crossed borders.
In this context, Pope Francis in his message for the 110th World Day of Refugees and Migrants (September 29, 2024) has reiterated his message to us under the title “God walks with His people.” The Pope says that the long journey of the Israelites from slavery to freedom is a precursor to the Church’s journey to a final encounter with the Lord. The Lord is not only with people on their journey, but He is also within them. And so, Pope Francis says that encountering our brothers and sisters who suffer hardship is also an encounter with Christ.
The Pope calls on us to be aware of the dramatic situation that humanity is experiencing. He challenges us to awaken a spirit of solidarity through prayer and an attitude of heartfelt welcome to these brothers and sisters. Let us stand up to save so many lives and start a new way of life together.
September 29, 2024
Catholic Commission of Japan for Migrants, Refugees and People on the Move
Chairperson: Bp. Michiaki Yamanouchi
Bishop in Charge: Bp. Shinzo Moriyama
