On Sunday, September 29th, the Catholic Church around the world observed the World Day of Migrants and Refugees. Cabrinian ministries in the Guadalupe Province marked the day each in its own special way.
Cabrini Immigrant Services – NYC
On Friday, September 27th, Cabrini Immigrant Services of NYC celebrated the 2024 World Day of Migrants and Refugees with staff and clients. Together, we created a mural collage symbolizing our individual and collective journeys, stories, and experiences. Inspired by this year’s theme, He Walks with His People, each participant contributed photos and shared personal reflections on the meaning of the day and their chosen artwork. We spent the morning sharing stories, food, and building community. Sr. Yolanda Flores led a prayer and guided a discussion on how we can come together under God. Executive Director Javier Ramirez-Baron shared a reflection on the significance of the day and how it connects to our work, rooted in the mission of Mother Cabrini of building a world where dignity, respect, and inclusion are prioritized for all.
***
Cabrini Immigrant Services & St. Cabrini Nursing Home, Dobbs Ferry, NY
Cabrini Immigrant Services (CIS) along with St. Cabrini Nursing Home joined in observing the week leading up to the World Day of Migrants and Refugees. Lorraine Campanelli, the Director of CIS, started the week off by giving a reflection at Mass at the nursing home on September 23rd. Using the theme, “God walks with His people,” Lorraine likened the theme to the Gospel reading about the Road to Emmaus. She reminded us that we need to see the Jesus in each other. When we recognize that, we recognize each other as sister and brother.
Fr. Ron Galt, Vice President of Mission and Pastoral Care at St. Cabrini Nursing Home, prayed special intentions for Migrants and Refugees during the Prayers of the Faithful each day at Mass. In addition, a special noon day prayer was prayed along with the prayer for the blessing of the food.
A statue of Mother Cabrini, a globe and the flags of different countries were displayed in front the altar for the week. It was a reminder to pray for all our sisters and brothers who are struggling to find peace, safety and a home.
The week closed with a Mass on September 29th which was offered for all our migrant and refugee sisters and brothers.