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The Archdiocese of Chicago to Observe National Migration Week from January 7 through January 14, 2018

Cardinal Blase J. Cupich, Archbishop of Chicago, will preside over the multicultural opening Mass on Sunday, January 7 at Holy Name Cathedral at 5:15 p.m.

Chicago, IL (January 2, 2018) – In observance of National Migration Week, the Archdiocese of Chicago will host an opening Mass on January 7, 2018 at 5:15 p.m., at Holy Name Cathedral, 735 N. State Street, Chicago. Cardinal Blase J. Cupich, Archbishop of Chicago, will preside over the multicultural Mass that celebrates Chicago’s diverse Catholic community.

“On this Feast of the Epiphany, we open our hearts to welcome, befriend and shelter migrants in their search for safety and security,” said Cardinal Cupich. “Just as the Holy Family fled to Egypt to escape Herod’s sword, today’s refugees are vulnerable populations traveling an arduous and often dangerous path to preserve their families and create better lives.”

The Mass will highlight the ethnic diversity of the Archdiocese of Chicago through multilingual readings and music in languages such as Spanish, Polish, Swahili and Tagalog. Immigrants representing more than 40 countries will participate in the Mass wearing their traditional attire. A Haitian refugee and a student-recipient of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) will share testimonials about their journeys and Temporary Protected Status (TPS).

This year’s theme, “Many Journeys, One Family,” answers Pope Francis’ call for Catholics to be involved in the welcome, protection and integration of migrants and refugees worldwide and to stand in solidarity with them in departure, transit, arrival or return.

With more than 65 million migrants and refugees fleeing violence, persecution, poverty and forcible displacement from their homes globally, 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 with a special focus on supporting DACA families.

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