World Day of the Poor 2026

In 2017, Pope Francis proclaimed the first World Day of the Poor.   
At the time, Pope Francis said:

“If we want to help change history, we need to hear the cry of the poor and commit ourselves to ending their marginalization. We cannot remain passive. Blessed are the hands that reach beyond every barrier of culture, religion, and nationality, and pour the balm of consolation over the wounds of humanity…”

The Tenth World Day of the Poor occurs on November 15, 2026.
Let us consider:

‘The World Day of the Poor challenges us to see, hear and walk alongside those who are too often forgotten.
In his message for 2026, Pope Leo XIV reminds us that poverty is not only a lack of material resources. Many people experience loneliness, exclusion, injustice, homelessness, hunger, poor health and a loss of hope.
As followers of Jesus, we are called to create communities where every person is welcomed, known by name and treated with dignity.’

– Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand 

An Invitation to Reflect:
Within his message for World Day of the Poor 2026, Pope Leo calls for  reflection on the face of God who becomes a refuge for those who are homeless, excluded, vulnerable, living in poverty and forgotten. 
Pope Leo poses  several questions as a call to personal and communal reflection:
“Are we a sign of a God who is a refuge for the poor?
Are we aware of our own poverty, and do we prefer it to unjust wealth?
Do we go where the poor are, experiencing their marginalization?
Do we listen to their thoughts and share their hopes?
Do we speak their names with divine tenderness?”

READ:

USIG offers Reflection: World Day of the Poor

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“In a variety of formal and informal ways we are called as advocates
for people who are marginalized in our world today…” (Focus – CSB website)

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