Faithful of various backgrounds and cultures came together recently at Saint Damien Parish, Ocean City, to celebrate the 110th World Day of Migrants and Refugees. On Sept. 29, those who teach English as a Second Language to immigrants and refugees were blessed during the Mass celebrated at Saint Francis Cabrini Church.
“What they are doing really welcomes and helps the immigrant to adjust to this country, and the teachers learn much from them as well,” said Sister Veronica Roche, SSJ, who serves in the parish, adding that the classes consist of Latino, Ukrainian and Russian students. “It’s very much a mutual exchange.”
PHOTO GALLERY: World Day of Migrants & Refugees Celebration
After Mass, a steady stream of parishioners enjoyed homemade food and hospitality at a Kermes Mexican Festival. Leading up to the daylong celebration, the parish celebrated National Migration Week.
On Sept. 23, parishioners gathered to watch the movie “Cabrini” – highlighting Italian immigrants. “God Walks with His People,” an evening of Adoration, reflection and song, was held Sept. 24. Reflecting on the Sept. 29 Mass, Sister Veronica referenced the day’s Gospel reading from Mark: “For whoever is not against us is for us.” “It was a message of inclusion, which I thought was appropriate for the day,” said Sister Veronica, seen above with Beverly R. Bryde, former dean of the School of Education at Cabrini University.
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