Facing a tough journey

This year’s theme, Even just one of these children (Matthew 18:10), focuses attention on the children and young people affected by migration and forced displacement.

Pope Leo XIV says recognition of fundamental human rights represents one of the most important achievements in human history. The Church contributes to this journey, says the pope, by recalling that dignity arises from the very being of each person.

“Human dignity does not depend on a person’s abilities, wealth or position in life, nor on the right or wrong choices made,” he says. “Instead, it is a gift that precedes and transcends each person, endowed by God as an expression of his unfailing love.”

Pope Leo quoted his encyclical Magnifica Humanitas, stressing that every human being is “planned and willed by God” for communion with him, with others and with creation.

He says this infinite dignity is rooted in humanity’s creation in the image of God. Christ reveals the ultimate foundation of this dignity by revealing humanity to itself and making known to us our highest calling, he added.

Archbishop Christopher Prowse, Chair of the Bishops Commission for Evangelisation, Laity and Ministry (BCELM) and Bishop Delegate for the ACMRO, said the theme challenges Australians to pay closer attention to a frequently overlooked dimension of migration.

“We frequently hear the voices and experiences of adult migrants and refugees, but we tend to forget the children involved,” Archbishop Prowse said.

Resources are available at: https://acmro.catholic.org.au/wdmr/2026

Source: Vatican News and Bishops Commission for Evangelisation, Laity and Ministry  

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