The Vatican has officially declared “God walks with His people” as the theme for the 110th World Day of Migrants and Refugees, set to be commemorated on Sunday, September 29, 2024.
This announcement was made by the Vatican’s Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, according to Vatican News.
The century-long tradition dates back to 1914, aimed at fostering a global remembrance and prayerful support for individuals displaced by conflict, persecution, and economic hardship.
Pope Francis is expected to release a message that will “address the itinerant dimension of the Church,” with a particular emphasis on “our migrant brothers and sisters,” describing them as a “contemporary icon of the journeying Church.”
The Dicastery, in a recent press release, echoed Pope’s forthcoming message as an invitation to embrace the migratory experience as a collective, synodal journey, “overcoming all threats and obstacles, to reach our true homeland together.”
“During this journey, wherever people find themselves, it is essential to recognize the presence of God who walks with His people, assuring them of His guidance and protection at every step,” the statement read.
“It is equally essential to recognize the presence of the Lord, Emmanuel, God-with-us, in every migrant who knocks at the door of our hearts and offers an opportunity for encounter,” it added.
The Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development plans to launch a communications campaign to promote a deeper understanding of this year’s theme, through various channels including videos, informational material, and theological reflections.
