India: Karnataka Regional Migrant Commission strengthens commitment to migrant ministry

The Karnataka Regional Migrant Commission reaffirmed its commitment to the dignity, rights, and well-being of migrants through a two-day training program, Discerning Synodal Pathways for the Ministry of Migrants, held from March 13–14, 2025, at Paalana Bhavana, Bangalore, India. 

Organized by Fr. Franklin Minj, secretary of the Commission for Migrants, in collaboration with the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) Commission for Migrants, the event brought together 21 participants, including priests, religious, and lay leaders, to enhance solidarity and pastoral care for migrant communities. 

Facilitated by Fr. Jaison Vadassery and his team, the sessions focused on pastoral support, migrant leadership, church advocacy in social struggles, legal rights, and mental health care.

Dr. Fr. Charles Leon urged participants to strengthen migrant leadership, inspired by the Church’s involvement in social justice movements. 

The Catholic Connect media team guided attendees in effective news publication and digital storytelling, emphasizing strategic media outreach to highlight migrant issues. 

Building a Roadmap for Action:

Participants developed a concrete action plan to strengthen the Church’s ministry for migrants: 

- Migrant Ministry Cells—Each diocese will establish dedicated teams for pastoral care, legal assistance, and social support. 

- Empowering Migrant Leaders—Training programs will equip migrants to lead community associations and advocate for their rights. 

- Strengthening Collaborations—The Church will partner with government agencies, NGOs, and labor organizations to enhance migrant access to services. 

- Leveraging Social Media—It will use digital platforms for outreach, awareness campaigns, and community engagement. 

- Mental Health and Well-Being—Special programs will provide psychological support, counseling, and trauma healing. 

In his inaugural address, Fr. Siby CMF, Provincial Councilor, emphasized the Church’s duty to listen and act, stating, "The cry of the migrant must not go unheard. We must offer healing, hope, and a home wherever they are."

The workshop addressed the emotional struggles of migrants, including loneliness, discrimination, and post-migration trauma.

Recognizing migration as both a challenge and an opportunity, the Commission underscored the importance of community support, capacity-building, and education to ensure a safer and more dignified migration experience. 

As the Karnataka Regional Migrant Commission moves forward, its mission remains clear: a church that welcomes, listens, and walks with migrants in faith and action.