Hundreds crowded into St. Michael the Archangel Church on Scranton Avenue in Cleveland on Sunday, January 24 to observe the 2016 World Day of Migrants and Refugees.
Bishop Richard Lennon celebrated the Mass and prayed with Pope Francis and the Universal Church for those who have been forced out of their homelands by violence and are seeking a home and safety, as well as those countries and groups who are providing a welcome for these migrant and refugee communities.
?The Church is well aware of the difficulties facing migrants and refugees, and the Church champions these,? Bishop Lennon said. ?Every year we celebrate the migrants and immigrants. We respect every human being and will protect the dignity of all humankind. The Holy Father asks us to remember the importance of God?s love for everyone.?
The bishop said these are troublesome times and the Church is being challenged as it tries to address and improve conditions for so many people. He said we are being asked by the Holy Father to be involved in the struggle for better lives for migrants, immigrants and refugees.
?We have the resources, the vision to allow them to come here. The Church wants us to take this seriously,? Bishop Lennon said. ?People have the right to a way of life that is good for them, their families and others. Life is a precious gift. Unless we do something, who is going to do it?? he asked.
?Knowledge is wonderful, but what is needed is to put it into action,? the bishop said.
Readings at Mass were proclaimed in Spanish and Arabic. Prayers of the Faithful were read in a variety of languages, including English, Swahili, French, Arabic, Quiche and Spanish. Singers and musicians from several nations provided music for the liturgy. The offertory procession featured a presentation of bread from various parts of the world, as well as the traditional gifts.
The Mass and reception were coordinated by the diocesan office for parish life and development, which is overseen by Sister Rita Mary Harwood, SND.
?I truly believe a miracle took place here today,? she said after Mass. ?People from all over the world came together to celebrate.?
After Mass, the congregation was invited to St. Michael?s parish hall, where a variety of ethnic foods were served and a mariachi band provided entertainment.
