Columban missionaries internationally have a mission priority of supporting Migrants and Refugees. This echoes Catholic Social Teaching which calls us to 'welcome the stranger'.
The Columbans are looking for students in Britain and Ireland (aged 13-18 inclusive, parental permission required) to submit an original piece of writing or create an original image on the theme:
"Becoming a refugee is never a choice. But how we respond is."
We invite young people to explore perceptions of people seeking sanctuary in Britain and Ireland, considering practical examples of welcome and solidarity. The aim of the competition is to increase young people's compassion for and understanding of the journeys of displaced people seeking safety in another country.
Students are invited to explore how we, as communities of faith, can respond with love to those seeking refuge and safety. Whether inspired by real-life stories of resilience and hope, scripture, or Catholic Social Teaching, this is a chance to shine a light on what it truly means to welcome others.
Let your faith and compassion speak. Create. Inspire. Welcome.
"We are called to offer God's love to all, so that unity may be realized - a unity that does not erase differences but values each person's history and the social and religious culture of every people."
Pope Leo XlV at his inauguration, May 2025
"My own story is that of a citizen, the descendant of immigrants, who in turn chose to emigrate… All of us, in the course of our lives, can find ourselves healthy or sick, employed or unemployed, living in our native land or in a foreign country, yet our dignity always remains unchanged."
Pope Leo XlV in a speech to diplomats, May 2025
Deadline for entries is 14 February 2026.
Announcement of winners on 9 March 2026.
See the following pages:
Church Call to "Welcome the Stranger"
Why do People Flee? Causes of Migration
If you have questions, see our Frequently Asked Questions or get in touch with us at hello@columbancompetition.com
