On the occasion of the 108th World Day of Migrants and Refugees (WDMR), September 26th, 2022, Pope Francis has chosen as the theme for this day “Building the Future with Migrants and Refugees.” Pope Francis highlights the commitment that we are all called to share in building a future that embraces God’s plan, leaving no one behind.

In Pope Francis’ WDMR statement, he writes: “Building the future with migrants and refugees also means recognizing and valuing how much each of them can contribute to the process of construction. I like to see this approach to migration reflected in a prophetic vision of Isaiah, which considers foreigners not invaders or destroyers, but willing labourers who rebuild the walls of the new Jerusalem, that Jerusalem whose gates are open to all peoples (cf. Is 60:10-11).”

For more information and resources visit.

Father Jean-Claude Colin was elected Superior General of the Society of Mary (The Marists) on September 24, 1836, and on that same day the first Marist religious professions took place. Along with Fr. Colin the first professed included two individuals who would become saints: Saint Peter Chanel, SM, martyred on the island of Futuna, and Saint Marcellin Champagnat, SM, founder of the Marist Brothers of the Schools.

In the Marists Constitutions, it states: “When they make profession, Marists declare before the Church and one another their intention to live out their baptism more fully. They choose to follow Christ more closely by a radial commitment to the spirt of the Beatitudes in community that has one heart and mind.” (Marist Constitutions, 93)

As we remember this anniversary, may the gentle sprit and compassion of Fr. Colin continue to guide the Society of Mary!

As we celebrate this feast day of the Holy Name of Mary, let all Marists “bear in mind that they belong by a gracious choice to the family of the blessed Mary, Mother of God, from whose name they are called Marists, and whom they have chosen from the beginning as their model and their first and perpetual superior.” (Society of Mary Constitutions, #228)

Join the Marists in celebrating this feast day by reflecting on the following Marian hymn, “Mother Mary, Pray for Us” by Sarah Hart. The song reminds us to rely on Mary’s intercession – that no request is too small when asking for Mary’s help.

Birth of Mary: A Purpose – Saying yes to God

Mary’s whole life is a perfect example of an Israelite who hears the word of God and responds to that word. We hear that dramatically in our Gospel. To be able to say “yes”, she must have been saying “yes” to God, all her life. Today is the birthday of the mother of the Church; the first and perfect disciple, the new Eve, the mother of our Saviour. By practicing obedient ‘yeses’ to God’s will each day, we will find it the natural thing to do when a big challenge comes our way.