San Diego bishop proclaims that ‘faith must speak’ on behalf of immigrants, protect their dignity

More than 4,000 people participated in a procession around Balboa Park in San Diego on Sept. 27 to observe the World Day of Migrants and Refugees. Bishop Michael M. Pham led the event under the theme "All Are Sacred" to raise awareness for migrants and refugees.

Bishop Pham walked alongside dozens of priests, deacons, religious men and women, and approximately 20 leaders from other faith traditions. Participants heard prayers and reflections from Bishop Pham, San Diego Auxiliary Bishop Felipe Pulido, Catholic parish priests, an imam, rabbis, an Episcopal priest, and a Unitarian Universalist minister.

During his reflection, Bishop Pham stated that the day serves as a time to stand with migrant and refugee brothers and sisters, noting that all people are migrants in this world. He also referenced the theme chosen by Pope Leo XIV for the 112th annual observance of the day.