Migrants Urged to Become Bridge Builders of Culture and Peace

Patna, April 25, 2026: Migrants are called not merely to seek livelihoods, but to become ambassadors of peace, love, and cultural harmony, Bishop James Shekhar of Buxar said while inaugurating a two-day training programme on migrant ministry in Patna.

Addressing participants at Navajyothi Niketan, Kurji, on April 24, the bishop emphasised that migrants have the unique ability to foster understanding between communities. “Migrants can become people who build bridges between cultures and share the good values of one place with another,” he said, urging the Church to accompany them in their journeys and empower them to become agents of reconciliation.

The programme, organised by the CCBI Commission for Migrants, brought together Church leaders, clergy, religious, and lay representatives committed to strengthening pastoral care and advocacy for migrant communities across the region.

Fr. Jaison Vadassery, Executive Secretary of the Commission, reaffirmed the Church's unwavering commitment to migrants, describing migrant ministry as an essential expression of the Church's mission to the poor and vulnerable. He stressed that every diocese is called to establish an active Commission for Migrants, echoing the repeated appeals of Pope Francis.

“Bishops cannot overlook this responsibility,” he said, noting that pastoral care extends to all the faithful, including migrants and immigrants, irrespective of their region, language, or social status.

Participants also remembered Pope Francis, whose papacy was marked by an enduring concern for migrants and refugees, on the anniversary of his death on April 21.

Resource person Nirmal Gorahana highlighted the structural challenges confronting migrant workers, insisting that migrant rights must be actively pursued and protected. He warned that migration becomes a source of suffering when adequate safeguards are absent and called on governments to ensure safe and dignified migration.

Legal expert Adv. Alka Verma underlined the importance of legal remedies, particularly Public Interest Litigation, in defending the rights of workers who are denied basic necessities. She explained that the judiciary can serve as a vital avenue for justice when other systems fail.

Alongside Gorahana and Verma, Fr. Jesusraj led sessions on migrant rights, legal recourse, and the Church's pastoral response, equipping participants with practical tools for ministry.

Representatives from various dioceses shared their experiences and collectively emphasised the need to revitalise diocesan Commissions for Migrants, making them more responsive and effective in addressing the realities faced by migrant communities.

The programme continued on April 25 under the coordination of Sr. Ancy Thomas, Fr. Flinton, Fr. Anil, and Fr. Milageres, who facilitated discussions and encouraged greater collaboration among dioceses in Bihar.

As the sessions progressed, the gathering reaffirmed a shared commitment to building a structured and compassionate migrant ministry—one that not only safeguards rights and dignity, but also enables migrants to become bearers of peace and mutual understanding wherever they go.

By Catholic Connect Reporter