“God walks with His people” – World Day of Migrants and Refugees 

Originally Published on OMIWORLD.ORG

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By Raymond MWANGALA, OMI, Assistant General for Mission

“God walks with His people”, is the title chosen by Pope Francis for his Message for the World Day of Migrants and Refugees (WDMR), which is celebrated on Sunday, September 29, 2024.

GS-JPIC Assembly Reflects on Ministry with Migrants and Refugees

The 2024 annual assembly of the General Service of Justice, Peace, and the Integrity of Creation (GS-JPIC) took place from August 26-30 at the General House in Rome, dedicating two days to the study of migration. During this time, three speakers each presented different aspects of migration. Using the synodal process adapted from the Holy See’s Synod on Synodality, participants engaged with the presentations and discerned practical ways to respond to what the Spirit is calling the Congregation to do in this vital ministry.

Migration: A Complex Reality

The first speaker, Catalina Hinojosa from the Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation Commission of the USG-UISG (Unions of Superiors General, male and female), began by noting that migration is not a new phenomenon—it has existed as long as human history. Even in biblical times, stories abound of people moving from one place to another. However, with the development of agriculture and settled societies, conflicts over land and resources became common. Today, migration is often framed in political terms, focusing on people moving from poorer countries to wealthier ones and the challenges this causes in host nations.

Hinojosa argued that this focus overlooks the root causes of migration and the effects on the communities left behind. She emphasized the importance of decolonizing the contemporary discourse on migration to better understand its complexities. She also highlighted the importance of addressing the inequality between rich and poor, which often fuels migration. Simply responding to immediate needs—shelter, food, and psychological support—without addressing the underlying causes is not enough. In terms of ministry, Hinojosa called for a more personal approach: working with migrants, not just for them. Allowing migrants to have a voice and express their needs is essential for meaningful ministry.

Clarifying Terminology and the Church’s Role

The second speaker, Fr. Ramesh Jakkop, OMI, a member of the GS-JPIC from the Jaffna Province in Sri Lanka, provided clarity on key terms related to migration, such as refugees, asylum seekers, and undocumented migrants. He then presented an overview of Catholic Social Teaching (CST) on migration and how the Oblate Congregation has responded over the years.  Pope Francis has been vocal about the plight of migrants throughout his pontificate, and Fr. Jakkop emphasized that the Oblates have a long history of engaging with migrant communities. From working with Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in countries like Bangladesh, Peru, and Nigeria to ministering directly to migrants in places such as the USA, Italy, and Sweden, the Oblate commitment to migrants remains strong.

Migration in Western Sahara

The final speaker, Fr. Mario León Dorado, OMI, joined the assembly via Zoom from the Mediterranean Province. Fr. Dorado works in Western Sahara, a predominantly Muslim country with a complex political situation. Many people there see Western Sahara as a stepping stone to Europe, using it as a departure point for dangerous journeys by sea to the Canary Islands and beyond. Tragically, many do not make it, and those who survive often feel “trapped” in the country. Fr. Dorado described the Oblate ministry in Western Sahara as one of presence and friendship. He stressed the need to stand in solidarity with migrants, even when little can be done. His strongest call was for networking—joining forces with individuals and organizations to provide meaningful support.

What More Can We Do?

After reflecting on the presentations and engaging with the speakers, the assembly asked, “What more can we do?” While many Oblates are already involved in migrant ministry, there was a clear sense that more must be done. Both the Gospel and the Oblate charism call for service to those who are suffering. The assembly concluded with the recognition that caring is rooted in compassion, as expressed by Henri J. M. Nouwen: “Caring is compassion.” The assembly sent a message to the Congregation and the wider Oblate family, reaffirming their commitment to ministry with migrants and refugees and calling for a renewed dedication to this essential work.