San Diego bishop proclaims that ‘faith must speak’ on behalf of immigrants, protect their dignity

More than 4,000 people participated in a procession around Balboa Park in San Diego on Sept. 27 to observe the World Day of Migrants and Refugees. Bishop Michael M. Pham led the event to proclaim that all people are sacred. He walked alongside dozens of priests, deacons, and religious men and women, as well as approximately 20 leaders from other faith traditions.

During the gathering, Bishop Pham and San Diego Auxiliary Bishop Felipe Pulido joined Catholic parish priests, an imam, rabbis, an Episcopal priest, and a Unitarian Universalist minister to offer prayers and reflections. Bishop Pham expressed gratitude to the diverse group of participants and noted that the day serves to stand with migrant and refugee brothers and sisters. He also referenced the theme chosen by Pope Leo XIV for the 112th annual observance, "Even just one of these children."