112th World Day of Migrants and Refugees

Dear Friend,

In the Gospel today, Jesus told a story of a son who said that he would obey his father but then failed to do so while his brother said that he would not do what he was told but reconsidered and did as his father commanded.  Then Jesus asked the chief priests and the elders of the people, which of the sons did his father’s will?  The chief priests and elders thought the answer obvious but were taken aback when Jesus pointed out that those the holy people considered unclean were repenting and following the will of the Father, even as they themselves neglected it.

Pope Leo XIV wrote for the 112th World Day of Migrants and Refugees (the challenge of migrants and refugees has been with us a long time!):

[M]y thoughts turn to the words of Jesus that profoundly challenge our consciences: “Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me” (Mt 18:5). It is not a question of numbers or statistics. The Gospel invites us not to calculate: even one. Every child, every human being, possesses an infinite dignity. Each is created in the image and likeness of God (cf. Gen 1:26); each is a presence of the Lord. Before every migrant child, we are called to make an act of humanity and faith, for we are able to welcome and encounter the Lord.

Migrants, refugees, and others in need are all around us.  Jesus has shared with us the Father’s will.  Which son, which daughter of the Father will we be?

(The Pope’s message is available at: Message of the Holy Father for the 112th World Day of Migrants and Refugees 2026)

Fraternally,

Fr. Jack Clark Robinson OFM