Papal encouragement for International Catholic Migration Commission

November 11, 2026

Pope Leo XIV encouraged the leaders of the International Catholic Migration Commission (ICMC) to “persevere in your noble and important mission of strengthening the Church’s services to welcome, protect, promote and integrate migrants, refugees and returnees.”

The Pontiff made his remarks in a video message to participants in a meeting of the ICMC’s council, as the commission marked its 75h anniversary.

“I likewise encourage you to advocate courageously for the recognition and respect of their God-given dignity, in cooperation with other faith-based organizations and civil society in general,” Pope Leo continued. “In particular, I pray that your efforts will help find new ways to care for displaced children.

The Pope also encouraged the council members to “deepen your reflection on the Gospel’s call to recognize the face of our Savior in every person, especially in each migrant, refugee, displaced person or survivor of human trafficking.”

 

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Further information:

• Video Message of the Holy Father to the participants in the Plenary Meeting of the Council of the International Catholic Migration Commission (Dicastery for Communication - Vatican Media, 11/10/26)
• Video Message of the Holy Father to participants in the Council of the International Catholic Migration Commission (Holy See Press Office, 11/10/26)
• Pope urges Catholic Migration Commission to care for displaced children (Vatican News, 11/9/26)