On Sunday, October 5, in the parish of the Immaculate Heart of Mary in Jordanovac, the 111th World Day of Migrants and Refugees was celebrated. This year, the Holy Father Francis named it “Migrants, Missionaries of Hope.” We had the opportunity to organize the event in collaboration with the International Catholic Community in Zagreb (ICCZ), which brings together Catholic faithful from various parts of the world.

The solemn Mass was presided over by the Director of our offices for Southeast Europe, Jesuit Fr. Stanko Perica, and concelebrated by the Provincial of the Croatian Province of the Society of Jesus, Fr. Sebastian Šujević. His presence gave additional support to two important Jesuit initiatives – pastoral work with migrants through our organization, and the regular celebration of Mass in English for the ICCZ.

A particularly moving moment of the liturgy was the baptism of two children from migrant families – a girl, Ema, from a Peruvian family, and a boy, Sam Robel, the son of a father from Eritrea and a mother from Nepal, who met right here in Croatia. This sacramental act powerfully expressed the maternal face of the Church, open to all nations, languages, and cultures – something easily forgotten in times of unrest, division, and war. 

Two communities that share similar migrant experiences participated in the celebration, coming together on this occasion in an atmosphere of gratitude, joy, and prayer that transcended all linguistic and cultural differences. After the Mass, a gathering titled “Caring and Sharing” offered an opportunity for an even deeper connection through food and customs – participants brought traditional dishes from their home countries, creating a colorful mosaic of cultures. 

Such celebrations not only deepen faith but also serve as a tangible witness that Christ’s Church is a home for everyone: Christ, in His desire to draw near to every person, transcends all the differences over which we so often stumble – and we wish to be the quiet yet active messengers of that message. In a time of growing challenges, the message of this gathering remains clear: migrants are not a burden, but bearers of hope – as Pope Francis himself reminds us, faithfully following the words and continuing the works of his predecessor.