World Refugee Day is an international day designated by the United Nations to honor refugees around the globe. The theme for 2022 is “It is non-negotiable: seeking safety is a human right.”
This day falls each year on June 20 and celebrates the strength and courage of people who have been forced to flee their home country to escape conflict or persecution. World Refugee Day encourages public awareness and support of refugees. It is an occasion to build empathy and understanding for their plight, and to recognize their resilience in rebuilding their lives.
Back in 2015, members of the Viatorian Community took a public stand to demonstrate their support for refugees, as shown in these photos. They included associates, brothers and priests as well as members of the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Our Lady of Guadalupe, a religious order of sisters based in Mexico.
Almighty God, millions of our sisters and brothers are on the move around the world, not by choice, but by desperation. For those forced to flee violence, we pray they find safety. For those seeking economic opportunity, we pray they find secure livelihoods. For those trying to support and protect their families, we pray they find communities to embrace them. For those searching for peace and hope, we pray that we may be bearers of the Good News.
We are called to be prophetic advocates in this world. To call out injustice and be heralds of Truth and Love. We pray that all migrants, refugees and displaced persons may find safe and loving communities and the opportunity to thrive and we pray that we may have the courage to stand and act in defense of human dignity for all our sisters and brothers in need. Amen. (Holy Spirit Missionary Sisters)