Sep 21, 2020
This is Bishop Michael Burbidge of the Catholic Diocese of Arlington. This coming Sunday is the World Day of Migrants and Refugees, when we are called to remember those displaced by conflict, war, and persecution. Pope Francis has chosen the theme “Forced like Jesus Christ to Flee,” with a focus on the need to care for people who are displaced within their own country. The day is an occasion to express concern for the many different vulnerable individuals and families forced to move, and to pray that they overcome their immense obstacles and find support and help from all of us, their brothers and sisters. The World Day of Migrants and Refugees provides a reminder that we can never forget: we are all members of God’s holy family. We are called to welcome the stranger in our midst and to protect those who are vulnerable.