COLOMBO : St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Bucharest was filled with hymns and heartfelt prayers as members of the local and migrant communities came together to mark the World Day of Migrants and Refugees, observed annually by the Catholic Church on 2 October.
This year’s celebration, held under the global theme “Migrants, Missionaries of Hope,” brought together nearly 300 faithful, clergy, and diplomats, demonstrating the unifying power of faith and the richness of cultural diversity.
The Holy Mass was presided over by His Excellency Archbishop Aurel Percă, joined by tenconcelebrant priests, including Fr. Francisc Doboș, chaplain for migrants in Bucharest; Fr. Greg Gaston from the Philippines; and Fr. Claude Perera from Sri Lanka. Their presence reflected the Church’s ongoing pastoral care and spiritual solidarity with the migrant communities in Romania.
Special guests included the Ambassadors of Sri Lanka and the Philippines, whose presence reflected the deep ties between the local Church and the communities they represent. At the conclusion of the Mass, Fr. Greg Gaston invited both ambassadors to address the congregation, adding a special note of recognition to the occasion.
The Ambassador of Sri Lanka, Madurika Joseph Weninger paid glowing tribute to Archbishop Percă and Fr. Claude Perera for their outstanding efforts in organizing such a meaningful event. Ambassador of Sri Lanka expressed gratitude to the congregation for their faithful participation and described the celebration as “a shining example of how faith brings people together in dignity, respect, and mutual understanding.”
The Ambassador Noel Eugene Servigon of the Philippines also extended his gratitude, noting the importance of shared worship and hospitality in strengthening the bonds between nations, and communities. Both ambassadors, accompanied by members of their diplomatic staff, praised the Church’s unwavering support for migrant families and acknowledged the unique role that faith plays in building bridges of understanding.
The liturgy reflected the international character of the Church, with the Prayer of the Faithfuloffered in English, Tamil, Sinhala, Igbo, Indonesian, and Filipino, and hymns sung in several languages, adding depth and diversity to the celebration.
Following the Mass, the festive spirit continued in the cathedral courtyard where Sri Lankan, Filipino, Romanian and other migrant communities shared traditional refreshments. The atmosphere was one of warmth and fellowship, turning the space into a joyful exchange of culture and friendship.
