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The Archdiocese of Chicago to Observe National Migration Week, January 6 through January 13, 2019

Rev. Ismael Sandoval, pastor of St. Benedict Parish in Chicago and coordinator for the Consejo Hispano, will preside over the multicultural opening Mass on Sunday, January 6 at 5:15 p.m. at Holy Name Cathedral

Chicago, IL (December 28, 2018) – In observance of National Migration Week, the Archdiocese of Chicago will host an opening Mass on January 6, 2019 at 5:15 p.m., at Holy Name Cathedral, 735 N. State Street, Chicago. Rev. Ismael Sandoval, pastor of St. Benedict Parish and coordinator for the archdiocese’s Consejo Hispano (Hispanic Advisory Board), will preside over the multicultural Mass that celebrates Chicago’s diverse Catholic community. Rev. Julio Lam, of Most Blessed Trinity Parish in Waukegan, will be the homilist.

“Today’s refugees are like the Magi, outsiders who traveled far, searching for hope while bearing gifts for the newborn Jesus,” said Cardinal Blase J. Cupich, archbishop of Chicago. “With millions of people currently fleeing war, oppression, genocide and famine, may we remember today’s refugees, like the Holy Family, seek destinations of shelter, promise and a place to create better lives. In the spirit of the Magi, one of the greatest gifts we can offer to migrants is one of welcome.”

The Mass will highlight the ethnic diversity of the Archdiocese of Chicago through multilingual readings and music in languages such as English, Spanish, Polish, Swahili, Arabic and Tagalog. Immigrants representing more than 35 countries will participate in the Mass wearing their traditional attire. A Congolese refugee will give testimony about his journey as a migrant and parishioners from St. Nicholas Church in Evanston will share their experience hosting a refugee family.

Pope Francis calls all Catholics to be a part of a culture of encounter, to form and build relationships with one another, including the stranger and refugee. This year’s theme, “Building Communities of Welcome,” emphasizes Catholics’ responsibility to welcome newcomers upon their arrivals and help to ease their transitions into new lives here in the United States.

According to the United Nation’s High Commissioner for Refugees, in June 2018, 68.5 million people were forcibly displaced worldwide fleeing violence, persecution and poverty. The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) encourages Catholic communities to come together as a universal Church to welcome immigrants and refugees in local parishes, dioceses and broader communities. The USCCB launched National Migration Week nearly 50 years ago to stand in solidarity with migrants and to pray for and act on the circumstances confronting migrants, including immigrants, refugees, children, and victims and survivors of human trafficking.

During the week, parishes throughout the Archdiocese will participate in National Migration Week activities including Masses, prayers vigils and forums.

For more information about National Migration Week activities, please visit pvm.archchicago.org/human-dignity-solidarity/immigration-ministry/national-migration-week