A day of prayer, pilgrimage and celebration
On Oct. 5, 2025, the Cathedral of the Most Blessed Sacrament in Detroit, Michigan, became a vibrant gathering place for IHM Sisters, fellow brothers and sisters and youth from across Michigan as they celebrated the 111th World Day of Prayer for Migrants and Refugees.
This year’s theme, “Migrants, Missionaries of Hope,” served as a powerful reminder of the courage, resilience, and spiritual strength of migrants and refugees around the world.
Inspired by Pope Leo XIV’s message, the event honored migrants as witnesses of hope—individuals who not only endure hardship but also inspire faith and foster dialogue across cultures and borders.
The day began with a moving pilgrimage around the cathedral, led by Archbishop Edward Weisenburger of Detroit. Participants—ranging from youth groups to community organizations—carried banners and posters representing their affiliations.
High school students from, Strangers No Longer – Youth in Action for Immigration, played a vital role in the day’s operations, assisting with ushering and logistics to ensure a smooth and memorable experience for all attendees.
Detroit Cristo Rey High School’s Director of Campus Ministry Kim Radigan and students in “Youth in Action for Immigration” joined IHM Sisters Maureen Kelly, Maria Antonia Aranda Diaz and Marie Rebecca (Becky) Vonderhaar to pray, pilgrimage and participate in Mass at the Blessed Sacrament Cathedral for the 111th World Day of Migrants and Immigrants.
During the offertory, symbols representing 13 different countries were brought forward, emphasizing the global nature of migration and the shared humanity that binds us together.
Following Mass, Archbishop Weisenburger led the crowd into the cathedral courtyard, where the celebration continued with tables of ethnic foods prepared by various community members.
Rebecca Vonderhaar, IHM, reflected on the day’s significance: “It was extraordinary to witness that God’s call to ‘love our neighbor’ excludes no one.” Her words echo the spirit of the event.
Gratitude and Acknowledgement
Special thanks were extended to Strangers No Longer, a statewide network of churches, for organizing this heartfelt expression of prayer and solidarity. Their efforts helped create a space where the dignity and worth of every person—regardless of origin—were honored and uplifted.
As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of migration, events like this serve as beacons of hope and remind us that love, respect and community reflect the liberating mission of Jesus.