World Day of Migrants and Refugees

World Day of Migrants and Refugees is observed each year on the last Sunday of September. In 2026, this date falls on September 27. The day honors the strength of millions of people who have left their homes in search of safety and opportunity, and it calls on communities to welcome them with compassion and justice.

History of World Day of Migrants and Refugees

The history of this observance reaches back more than a century. In 1914, Pope Pius X, moved by the suffering of millions of Italian emigrants, called on Christians to pray for migrants. His successor, Pope Benedict XV, then established the Day of the Migrant to provide spiritual and economic support for pastoral work among Italian emigrants.

Over time, the day grew beyond its Italian origins. In 1952, churches around the world were invited to choose a date to celebrate during the liturgical year. St. John Paul II was the first pontiff to issue annual messages, beginning in 1985, and in 2004 the Pontifical Council for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People extended the day to refugees, renaming it the World Day of Migrants and Refugees. In 2018, Pope Francis moved the day to the last Sunday of September, the date it still holds today.

Why is World Day of Migrants and Refugees important?

World Day of Migrants and Refugees matters because migration and displacement touch every continent. The day shines a light on the resilience of people who flee conflict, persecution, and poverty, and it reminds us that behind every statistic is a human being with hopes and dignity. It also gives the Church and the wider public a chance to listen to the voices of migrants and refugees rather than simply talk about them.

The observance also highlights urgent challenges. Migrant children face particular risks, and the 2026 theme, “Even just one of these children,” draws attention to minors on the move. By focusing on the most vulnerable, the day calls for policies and communities that protect rights, reunite families, and provide education and healthcare. It is a moment to convert concern into concrete action.

• Raise awareness about why people leave their home countries and what they face along the way.
• Reflect on scriptural and moral teachings about welcoming the stranger.
• Support organizations that provide legal aid, shelter, and resettlement services.
• Pray for the safety and dignity of all migrants, refugees, and displaced persons.
• Advocate for humane migration policies and for the protection of unaccompanied children.

How to Celebrate World Day of Migrants and Refugees

Observing the day can be as simple as setting aside time to learn more about migration issues. Read stories from refugees, watch documentaries, or attend an event organized by a local refugee support group. For Catholics, participating in a Mass or prayer service for migrants and refugees is a traditional way to mark the day, and many parishes hold special intentions for people on the move.

This year, the theme “Even just one of these children” invites everyone to focus on the needs of children traveling alone. Consider giving to organizations that provide safe spaces, mental health care, and education for migrant minors. You can also write to elected representatives, volunteer with resettlement agencies, or simply reach out in friendship to a refugee family in your community. Even a small gesture can offer hope.

• Attend a worship service or prayer vigil that remembers migrants and refugees.
• Learn the stories behind the statistics by reading firsthand accounts.
• Donate to charities that support refugees, especially children on the move.
• Volunteer your time and skills to a local refugee resettlement organization.
• Share the day’s message on social media to raise awareness in your network.

World Day of Migrants and Refugees Dates