Pope Francis launched a global campaign Sept. 27 to encourage individuals and nations to support migrants and refugees who have fled their homes seeking safety and a better life.
Called "Share the Journey," the two-year campaign aims to raise awareness, increase understanding and challenge myths related to the unprecedented numbers of migrants and refugees globally, including those in the U.S.
The worldwide campaign is spearhead-ed by Rome-based Caritas Internationalis — a confederation of over 160 Catholic Caritas organizations. Describing itself as the "helping hand of the Catholic Church," Caritas responds to emergencies, promotes development in emerging economies and advocates for a just world. The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops' Migration and Refugee Services Committee, Catholic Relief Services and Catholic Charities USA are sponsoring the Share the Journey initiative in the U.S.
U.S. bishops called for a Week of Prayer and Action Oct. 7 – 13, and are inviting people to join in the Share the Journey campaign in Catholic hospitals, parishes, schools, colleges and other ministries. CHA will share information about the campaign and post prayers and other resources on its website, chausa.org/immigration. The website sharejourney.org has ideas and tool kits for use in support of the campaign.