Celebration of the World Day for Migrants, Refugees, and Displaced People in Cabo Delgado, Mozambique
United with the Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, and the universal Church, the celebration was held under the theme "Even one of these children" at St. Isabel Parish in Chiure district.
The gathering brought together people from across the province of Cabo Delgado, creating a vibrant and diverse congregation. The celebration was presided over by Fr. Inoque Samuel Posse, SJ, Diocesan Director of Migrants, Refugees, and Displaced People. Among those present were Fr. Jude Rauch from Cameroon, Chairman of the Central Deanery; Fr. Inacio Jussa, SJ; several other priests; the District Commissioner; government leaders; and leaders from both native and displaced communities. Also in attendance were Mr. Helder Macingarera, Director of JRS in Chiure; representatives from CEMIRDE (Comissão Episcopal dos Migrantes, Refugiados e Deslocados); parishioners; and many sympathizers.
The celebration unfolded in two parts. The first was a Holy Mass presided over by Fr. Inoque Samuel Posse, SJ, who also serves as Pastoral Director of JRS in Cabo Delgado. In his homily, Fr. Inoque called on the congregation to empathize with vulnerable children who are forced to migrate without parents or guardians; children whose rights to life, education, food, shelter, and good health have been denied. Echoing the words of Pope Leo XIV, he reminded everyone that if each person stands up to help even one of these children, we can make a real difference.
Following the Mass, the congregation moved to the Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) campus, where recreation, refreshments, and speeches were prepared. Both native and displaced communities were invited to share their culture through traditional dances. It was a unique and moving moment that captivated all who participated. Smiles were visible on the faces of displaced people, the District Commissioner, government leaders, and everyone who joined the celebration. Many of the activities expressed both sorrow and the pain of forced displacement, as well as a deep longing for peace in the region.
This year's World Day celebration was marked by joy and satisfaction. The message of peace, the Holy Father's theme, and the values of social integration and harmony were clearly conveyed. Most people returned home happy. Nevertheless, we continue to ask for the intercession of St. Francis Xavier, SJ patron of the northern region of Mozambique to pray for the mission of the Jesuits in Cabo Delgado and for an end to terrorism.
