Faith, Culture and Unity Mark 112th World Day of Migrants and Karam Feast in Kalka
The Commission for Migrants of the Simla–Chandigarh Diocese celebrated the 112th World Day of Migrants along with the Karam Feast on 27 September 2026 at St. Joseph’s Church, Kalka, Haryana.
The celebration was held under the theme, “Even Just One of These Children” (Matthew 18:5).
Around 650 migrant faithful from various parishes of the Simla and Chandigarh Deaneries participated in the celebration, fostering a strong spirit of faith, cultural identity, unity and fellowship.
The programme commenced with a warm welcome by Rev. Fr. Kishore Toppo, Secretary of the Commission for Migrants, followed by the celebration of the Holy Eucharist. Special prayers were offered for migrants, their families, their well-being, and their continued journey of faith.
Rev. Fr. Atish, IMS, was the Main Celebrant. The Eucharistic celebration was concelebrated by 12 priests, with the presence of 18 religious sisters. It provided a grace-filled opportunity for the migrant faithful to come together as one community in prayer, thanksgiving and communion.
Celebrating Faith and Culture
Following the Eucharistic celebration, the gathering continued with a vibrant presentation of the rich tribal culture and traditions of the migrant communities. Various cultural programmes reflected the beauty, diversity and heritage of the participating communities.
The cultural presentations became a joyful expression of faith, identity and unity, enabling the participants to celebrate their traditions and strengthen their bonds of fellowship as one community.
Fellowship and Community.
The celebration concluded with a fellowship meal, bringing the participants together in an atmosphere of fraternity, joy and mutual sharing. It offered a meaningful opportunity for migrant faithful from different parishes and communities to meet, interact and strengthen their relationships.
The celebration was a joyful expression of the Church’s commitment to welcoming, accompanying and journeying with migrant communities, while nurturing their faith, cultural identity and sense of belonging within the Church.
Rev. Fr. Kishore Toppo
Secretary, Commission for Migrants
