Kottayam: In a decisive step to deepen its pastoral care and social outreach, the Kerala Latin Church has unveiled a comprehensive strategy to strengthen apostolic work among migrants within the state. The initiative took shape during a two-day conference held on October 15 and 16 at the Vimalagiri Pastoral Centre, Kottayam, which brought together directors of migrant commissions from Latin dioceses across Kerala, along with volunteers and pastoral workers engaged in migrant ministry.
The conference was inaugurated by Bishop Sebastian Thekkathecheril of the Diocese of Vijayapuram, who highlighted the spiritual and social potential embedded in the ministry for migrants. “Just as St. Francis of Assisi renewed the Church in the 12th century, Pope Francis envisions a renewed Church through a synodal way of life. In the same way, the influx and welcome of migrants can renew the Church it is truly a blessing,” the Bishop said, urging the faithful to see migration not as a challenge but as an opportunity for renewal.
The event featured a series of enlightening sessions led by prominent Church leaders and scholars. Dr. Jiju Arakkathara, Deputy Secretary General of the Kerala Region Latin Catholic Council (KRLCC), elaborated on the four foundational principles of Pope Francis’ pastoral vision for migrants to welcome, protect, promote, and integrate. He emphasized that these principles must form the backbone of every diocesan and parish-level initiative.
Mr. Joseph Jude, Vice President of the KRLCC, presented an analytical overview of the socio-economic dimensions of migration, shedding light on the struggles faced by Kerala’s young migrants. He noted that over 60 percent of youth migrating abroad come from families earning less than ₹5 lakh annually, and many face precarious working conditions and social isolation abroad. His presentation called for more targeted pastoral and economic support systems for these vulnerable groups.
National perspectives were shared by Fr. Jaison Vadassery, Secretary of the CCBI Commission for Migrants, who provided insights into the National Pastoral Plan for Migrants. He highlighted the Church’s mission to ensure that migrant communities both within India and abroad are spiritually accompanied and socially supported.
At the state level, Fr. Noel Kurisinkal, Secretary of the Commission for Migrants of the KRLCC, outlined the State Pastoral Plan and detailed ongoing initiatives, including counselling networks, migrant welfare centres, and inter-diocesan collaborations aimed at integrating pastoral care with social empowerment.
The conference, jointly organized by the CCBI Migrants Commission and the Kerala Latin Church Migrants Commission, served as a platform for dialogue and planning, aligning diocesan efforts with the broader national vision. Participants exchanged experiences and best practices to ensure the Church remains a beacon of hope for migrants, many of whom face displacement, discrimination, and uncertainty.
Concluding the gathering, the organizers announced that the conference also serves as a prelude to the Jubilee Pilgrimage for Migrants, scheduled to take place in Velankanni this November, marking a significant moment of reflection, thanksgiving, and renewal for the Church’s migrant apostolate.
With this renewed focus, the Kerala Latin Church reaffirms its mission to walk alongside migrants accompanying them in faith, empowering them in life, and ensuring they remain integral members of the Church’s living community.