World Refugee Day (June 20, 2014)

For over a century the Catholic Church in the United States has provided material and spiritual support to migrants, both domestically and abroad. Refugees are particularly vulnerable because they are often unable to take advantage of legal protections that are often afforded to residents and citizens of a country and are thus particularly open to exploitation. The Catholic Church has long recognized these threats and since at least the World War II era, the Church has been proactive in its advocacy efforts on behalf of these populations. In addition to advocacy, it also provides services to refugees who are resettled into the United States and develops resources that help refugees integrate into their new homeland. 

For more information about refugee populations, the Church’s resettlement efforts, and what you can do to help, visit the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops World Refugee Day website and the CRS World Refugee Day: Comfort and Care website.

For information and resources on refugee advocacy, visit the Jesuit Refugee Services website.