World Refugee Day was held on 30 June. The first national day of Prayer for Migrants and Refugees took place at the Cathedral under Pope Francis’ theme ‘It is not just about migrants and refugees’
Organised by the Department of Pastoral Care for Migrants and Refugees, Radio Veritas, Bienvenu Shelter, the
Consortium for Refugees and Migrants in South Africa (CoRMSA) and other agencies, the celebration brought together many nationalities under one roof.
The Episcopal Vicar for Migrants and Refugees, Fr Pablo Velasquez cs presided at Mass with Fr John Baptist Panpogee cs concelebrating. They were assisted by Rev Philippe Lukusa-Lumpungu.
With props, he showed how eating from a plate displays individualism, rather than from a tray which shows the inclusion of Communion.
He thanked people of goodwill who employ Pope Francis’ four verbs on migration – welcome, protect, promote and integrate – refugees and migrants.
Since the day coincided with the 59th anniversary of the Democratic Republic of Congo, he extended his congratulatory message.
After Mass, a socio-cultural programme took place in the hall where people, including the homeless, gathered.
