The Archdiocese of Southwark is hosting the annual London Migrant Workers Mass at St George’s Cathedral on Monday 6 May.
Migrants make a valuable contribution to life in the UK. The annual Mass is a celebration of how communities have been enriched by migration and the difference migrants make to wider society.
The Mass will be led by Archbishop John Wilson, with bishops from the Diocese of Westminster and Brentwood in attendance.
Speaking ahead of the Mass, Archbishop John said:
“Each and every person is a gift from God. Each and every person has gifts to offer to God and to others. That is why it is such a blessing people from across the globe have made their home here. It is this diversity, which has enriched our lives immeasurably, that we will be celebrating, and for which we will be giving our thanks to God.
“Our faith demands that we love our neighbour. This means we must serve those without a place to call home, especially those seeking refuge. As one family of humankind, united in love, we can – and we must – welcome our brothers and sisters who are suffering and help them to feel at home in our communities.”
The Mass takes place on the Feast of St Joseph the Worker and is a collaboration between the Archdiocese of Southwark, Diocese of Westminster and the Diocese of Brentwood. It is supported by the Justice and Peace Commissions and the Ethnic Chaplaincies.
People are encouraged to attend in their national dress as part of the celebrations, with a banner procession taking place at the beginning of Mass.
The Migrants Mass has been celebrated since 2006, when it was initiated by Cardinal Cormac Murphy-O’Connor, then-Archbishop of Westminster. The Archdiocese of Southwark and dioceses of Westminster and Brentwood host it in turns, this year being in St George’s Cathedral, Southwark.
The Mass will be celebrated on Monday 6 May at 12.30pm at St George’s Cathedral, London SE1 6HR. People are encouraged to arrive early as it is expected to be a full Mass.
