By Lissy Maruthamkuzhy
NEW DELHI, September 29, 2026: The 112th World Day of Migrants and Refugees was marked at Sacred Heart Cathedral, New Delhi, with the theme announced by Pope Leo XIV, “Even Just one of these Children (Mt 18:10).”
Auxiliary Bishop Deepak Valerian Tauro of Delhi concelebrated the Eucharist with ten priests, urging the faithful to welcome migrants. “Jesus was a migrant. We are all migrants in Delhi. We are all brothers and sisters,” he said, calling on clergy and religious “to be attentive and help them.”
Sister Ruth Shangla of the Pius Disciples of the Divine Master noted the influx of people from Manipur, particularly Kukis, migrating to Delhi amid ongoing unrest.
The observance, held annually on the last Sunday of September, highlights the plight of those displaced by conflict and persecution. Established in 1914, the day traces its roots to Pope Pius X’s call for prayers for Italian emigrants, later formalized by Pope Benedict XV as the “Day of the Migrant.”
The Catholic Church continues to use the occasion to express solidarity and concern for migrants and refugees worldwide, reminding the faithful of their responsibility to extend compassion and support to those forced from their homelands.
(Photo supplied)