The Archdiocese of Denver will mark the World Day of Migrants and Refugees with a multicultural celebration highlighting the experiences and contributions of migrant and refugee communities, with particular attention to children affected by displacement.
The event will take place on September 25 at All Saints Parish in Denver and will include a Mass led by Auxiliary Bishop Jorge Rodríguez, followed by a cultural gathering involving migrant communities from across Colorado.
This year’s World Day of Migrants and Refugees, the 112th observance, places particular emphasis on migrant and refugee children and adolescents. Pope Leo XIV has chosen the theme “Even one of these little ones,” drawing attention to the vulnerability of children who are forced to leave their homes.
In his message for the observance, Pope Leo highlighted the difficult experiences faced by migrant children, including separation from parents and other family members, exposure to violence and the challenges of trying to reunite with loved ones.
The Pope also warned that children can be particularly vulnerable because they may lack adults who can protect and support them during displacement.
The World Day of Migrants and Refugees was established in 1914 by Pope Benedict XV as the “Day of the Migrant.” The observance was later expanded to include refugees and others forced to leave their countries.
The Denver celebration will bring together members of several immigrant communities, including Hispanic, Vietnamese, Hmong, Burmese, Ukrainian, Lebanese, African and Pakistani communities.
The cultural event will allow participating communities to share their food, traditions and cultural heritage.
Organisers say the celebration is intended to encourage greater recognition of the dignity of migrants and refugees and highlight the contributions they make to communities.
The event will begin with a Mass at 6 p.m., followed by the cultural celebration at 7:30 p.m. in the parish hall.
The observance comes as the Catholic Church continues to draw attention to the experiences of children affected by migration, including those separated from their families and those exposed to violence and other dangers during displacement.
Event details: The celebration will be held on Friday, September 25, 2026, at All Saints Parish, 2559 S. Federal Blvd., Denver, Colorado. Mass begins at 6 p.m., followed by the cultural celebration at 7:30 p.m.