World Refugee Day 2021 Statement
By Catholic Charities President and CEO Stephen Carattini

Today Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Arlington joins the international community in observing World Refugee Day. Every day Catholic Charities welcomes refugees, asylees, and other migrants who were forced to flee their homelands, oftentimes separated from their families and children in the process. Through our Migration and Refugee Services we work to secure housing, assistance finding gainful employment, and education for themselves and their families. Our goal is to help these newcomers thrive with the support of the lay faithful, and all people of goodwill. We acknowledge their courage, resilience, and perseverance. We invite all to join us in prayer for our new neighbors, and in welcoming those who have recently arrived in our diocese. May we take to heart the words of Saint Paul, “to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it.” Hebrews 13:2