Pope Leo XIV: 'The cry of displaced children rises to God'

"The cry of displaced children rises to God today," Pope Leo said in his Message for the 112th World Day of Migrants and Refugees, which the Church observes on September 27th. The Pope's message was released today by the Holy See Press Office.

This year's day features the theme “Even just one of these children,” from the Gospel according to St. Matthew. 

Pope Leo XIV began his Message by insisting that the title “Even just one of these children,” draws our attention to the minors directly involved in the experience of migration and flight, to the care owed to them, and to the Lord’s promise that “whoever receives one such child in my name receives Me” (Mk 9:37).

The Holy Father recalled that minors are the most vulnerable group within the global movements of migration and observed the suffering of migrant children does not end with their relocation. 

He remembered very young children who have lost parents, brothers, sisters and friends, and who have witnessed unspeakable acts of violence; others who have been separated from their families for long periods; and minors, even if making the journey together with their parents, exposed to extreme and traumatic conditions.

"Finally," he continued, "we cannot forget the tragic situation of those separated from their parents because of repatriation."

The Pope also deplored the many deaths along migration routes; trafficking and exploitation; the recruitment of minors for use in armed conflicts; sexual violence; forced marriages; and the atrocities they have suffered or witnessed during their travels.

"Their dignity," he said, "is trampled upon in countless ways."

Yet, amid so much darkness, Pope Leo expressed gratitude to the many individuals, families, civil institutions, and ecclesial communities who "choose not to pass by on the other side" and instead offer solidarity.

Before this tragic reality, the Pope noted his thoughts turn to the words of Jesus that profoundly challenge our consciences: “Whoever receives one such child in My name receives Me.”

The Pope said it is not a question of numbers or statistics.

"The Gospel," he recalled, "invites us not to calculate: even one.  Every child, every human being, possesses an infinite dignity."