Ten Years of Calls for Solidarity and Human Dignity
“The Lord is the refuge of the poor” (Ps 14:6). This is the theme of the 10th World Day of the Poor, observed on November 15, 2026. In his message, Pope Leo XIV invites us to move beyond indifference, recognize the dignity of people living in poverty, and make a meaningful place for them in our communities.
This call reflects a longstanding tradition of solidarity among the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM), whose commitment to helping others continues today.
A Decade of Raising Awareness and Inspiring Action
Established by Pope Francis in 2016 and first celebrated in 2017, World Day of the Poor aims to raise awareness of poverty within Christian communities, encourage meaningful encounters, and inspire concrete acts of solidarity and fellowship.
Ten years later, this invitation remains essential in a world marked by inequality, conflict, forced displacement, and various forms of exclusion.
Leo XIV: Becoming a Refuge for Others
In his message for World Day of the Poor 2026, Pope Leo XIV reminds us that people living in poverty are often deprived not only of material resources but also of recognition and opportunities to make their voices heard.
The Pope therefore encourages communities to become welcoming places where everyone can find listening, respect, and comfort. He particularly emphasizes the importance of meeting people experiencing poverty, listening to them, and sharing their hopes, rather than simply speaking on their behalf.
His message also reminds us that solidarity goes beyond material assistance. It must be accompanied by a commitment to justice and human dignity.
The full message is available in French, English, Spanish, and Portuguese.
The SNJM: A Tradition of Solidarity Rooted in Their History
Long before World Day of the Poor was established, the SNJM had made welcoming vulnerable people an important part of their mission.
In 1847, despite the young Congregation’s limited resources, Mother Marie-Rose Durocher responded to Bishop Ignace Bourget’s appeal by taking in three Irish orphan girls affected by the typhus epidemic.
The Grandes Chroniques de la maison mère (Motherhouse Chronicles), dated September 10, 1847, describe the difficult conditions in which the girls arrived:
“They are dressed in rags and infested with vermin… They will be entrusted to Mother Marie-Agnès.”
This act of hospitality illustrates a determination to respond to human suffering through concrete action.
A Commitment That Continues Today
Over the generations, the SNJM have continued their work alongside women, children, immigrants, refugees, and people experiencing hardship.
Education and literacy programs, advocacy for human rights, collaboration with community organizations, and participation in social justice initiatives are all expressions of this commitment to solidarity.
At Maison Jésus-Marie, the 22nd annual Missionary Craft Exhibition, held in October, offers a recent example. Proceeds from the event help support organizations that assist families and people in need.
On this 10th World Day of the Poor, the invitation remains the same: to recognize the dignity of every person and make solidarity part of everyday life through listening, welcoming, and taking action.