Two-year journey begins this week for Catholics

Loretta Fulton
Special to the Reporter-News

Catholics around the world, including Abilene, will “Share the Journey” beginning Wednesday, when Pope Francis launches a global campaign in support of people who have been forced to leave their homes.

“Together, you and Pope Francis can lead the world in helping migrants and refugees,” a promotional flier says. 

In Abilene, a rosary will be said at 7 p.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church. Bishop Michael Sis of the Catholic Diocese of San Angelo will open the service with a presentation and explanation of “Share the Journey.”

The service also will include scripture readings, an international rosary with the first part of the "Hail Mary" said in different languages and the second part in English, and a Marian hymn for the procession.

A reception in the parish hall, at which Ballet Folklorico from St. Vincent Pallotti Catholic Church in Abilene, will follow.

The church has refugees attending from Burundi, Rwanda, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Cameroon, and Nigeria. Members also are natives of the Philippines and Mexico. 

The launch Wednesday is sponsored by the Vatican, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and Caritas International, a global confederation of 165 national development agencies.

After the official launch, “Share the Journey” will continue with a week of prayer and action across the United States, Oct. 7-13; Feast Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Dec. 12; International Migrants Day, Dec. 18; and National Migration Week, Jan. 1-13. Other events will be scheduled throughout the two-year “journey,” which ends in September 2019.

If You Go

What: “Share the Journey” official launch
When: 7 p.m. Wednesday 
Where: Holy Family Catholic Church, 5410 Buffalo Gap Road
Details: Michael Sis, bishop of the Catholic Diocese of San Angelo, will preside over the service, which will include an international rosary, scripture readings and Marian hymn procession. A reception, featuring Ballet Folklorico from St. Vincent Pallotti Catholic Church, will provide cultural dances during the reception.
Information: Go to https://justiceforimmigrants.org/caritas-share-the-journey-campaign/