Who is St. Scalabrini and why is he patron of migrants?

Pope Francis canonized Bishop John Baptist Scalabrini on October 9, 2022. Following the canonization, Scalabrinian pilgrims, including religious members of his order, laypeople, and migrants from various nations, met with the Pope for a weekly audience in Paul VI Hall.

Pope Francis noted the diversity of the pilgrims as a reflection of Scalabrini's work and his expansive heart. The Pope encouraged the group to promote a culture of encounter and to approach challenges with creative thinking. He described migration as a significant modern challenge that requires fraternity, solidarity, and a reflection of God's perspective toward migrants and refugees.