112th World Day of Migrants and Refugees
27th September 2026
Every year, millions of children and adolescents are forced to leave their homeland because of war, poverty, violence, environmental disasters and other tragedies.
For this 112th World Day of Migrants and Refugees, Pope Leo XIV draws our attention to the minors directly involved in the experience of migration and flight, suffering lost and separation of their families, trafficking and exploitation, lost of dignity, violence and even death.
Yet, amid so much darkness, the light of solidarity is not lacking. Individuals, families, civil institutions and ecclesial communities choose not to pass by on the other side (cf. Lk 10:29-37). They bear witness through their commitment that love can overcome indifference. “Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me” (Mt 18:5)
God hears their cry and, in order to bring about liberation, he forcefully appeals to the conscience and action of each one of us. We cannot remain indifferent, nor can we become accustomed to such suffering.
Even just one of these children calls each one of us, in our personal lives, to open our eyes and heart to a profound listening to his or her story, fears and dreams and to prioritise the protection and dignity of every single child and adolescent. Ultimately, to protect a child is to safeguard the divine image imprinted within him or her.