06 December, 2025
The National Jubilee of Migrants 2025 was held at the Shrine Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, Velankanni, from 6th to 8th November 2025, under the theme “Migrants: Pilgrims of Hope in the Heart of Mary.” The program was organized by the Commission for Migrants – CCBI, in collaboration with Caritas India and the Scalabrini International Migration Network (SIMN).
DBMS staff members actively participated in the entire program, contributing to discussions, sessions, and group sharing throughout the three days.
Day 01 – 6th November 2025
Theme: Looking at the Past with Gratitude
The event began with registration and welcome on the previous evening, followed by the official commencement on Day 1. After breakfast, the Inaugural Holy Mass was celebrated at the Mandapam, followed by welcome remarks and a short refreshment break.
The Inaugural Assembly included a prayer dance by the Odisha Region and introductory messages from various dignitaries. Key inputs were delivered on themes related to the legacy of Pope Francis and the Church’s mission in migrant accompaniment.
The day continued with presentations, sharing sessions, and group reflections highlighting past experiences and collective gratitude for the Church’s service to migrants.
Day 02 – 7th November 2025
Theme: Looking at the Present with Joy
The second day began with Holy Mass and breakfast, followed by Round Table Conversations. Representatives from multiple regions shared ongoing migrant-related programs, challenges, and pastoral responses.
Workshops and panel discussions addressed critical topics such as:
Ø Pastoral care for migrants
Ø Reintegration support
Ø Creation of safe migration pathways
Ø Community-level engagement and collaboration
Ø The day concluded with a cultural evening, rosary, and dinner.
Day 03 – 8th November 2025
Theme: Looking to the Future with Courage
The final day opened with a Tamil Holy Mass celebrated by Bishop Sagayaraj Thamburaj. After breakfast, a Round Table Conversation explored future strategies, with discussions led by religious congregations and experts in migrant ministries.
A significant segment of the day was the Assembly Sharing and Concluding Ceremony, where several leaders expressed their insights and recommendations for strengthening Church-based migrant outreach and national collaboration.
Special Participation by DBMS
During this session, Fr. Bosco gave an important presentation on the newly developed DBMS Website and Mobile App, highlighting its features, accessibility, and its role in enhancing support services for migrant families across Tamil Nadu and beyond. The presentation received positive feedback for its innovation and practicality.
The day ended with a farewell lunch, marking the conclusion of the National Jubilee of Migrants 2025.
Conclusion
The four-day national gathering served as a meaningful platform for reflection, collaboration, and future planning for migrant ministries in India. The active participation of DBMS staff members throughout the program enriched the discussions, and Fr. Bosco’s presentation of the DBMS website and app demonstrated the organization’s commitment to embracing technology for improved migrant services.
The program successfully highlighted the Church’s dedication to accompanying migrants with compassion, dignity, and renewed hope for the future.
