In Ethiopia, a country that has long been a place of refuge for those fleeing conflict and instability across the region, the realities of displacement remain deeply felt. Thousands of refugees, primarily from neighboring countries, seek safety and a chance to rebuild their lives, often in challenging urban and camp settings. In response, Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) Ethiopia has been accompanying refugees with a mission rooted in compassion, dignity, and justice. Through its programs, JRS provides education, psychosocial support, livelihoods training, and community-based services, creating safe spaces where hope can be restored and lives rebuilt.

At the heart of this mission in Addis Ababa is the Refugee Community Center (RCC), a vital hub where refugees access essential services while also finding a sense of belonging and community. It is within this context that, on March 25, 2026, JRS Ethiopia had the honor of welcoming His Excellency, The Most Reverend Archbishop Brian Ngozi Udaigwe, Apostolic Nuncio to Ethiopia and Djibouti and Special Representative to the African Union.

The visit marked a significant moment of solidarity and spiritual connection. His Excellency presided over a Holy Mass at the RCC, bringing together refugees, JRS staff, and volunteers in a powerful celebration of faith. The gathering created a profound atmosphere of unity and encouragement, reminding all present that they are not alone in their journeys.

Following the Mass, Archbishop Udaigwe engaged in a meaningful dialogue with JRS Ethiopia staff and representatives of the refugee community. During the session, he received a comprehensive overview of JRS Ethiopia’s work, including its mission, ongoing programs, and the complex realities faced by refugees in the country. Particular attention was given to the growing challenges posed by funding reductions and their impact on the continuity of essential services and support systems.

In one of the most moving moments of the visit, His Excellency met directly with refugees who shared their personal stories,stories marked by resilience, but also by daily struggles and uncertainty. Listening attentively, he expressed deep solidarity and offered words of comfort and encouragement. He reaffirmed the Church’s unwavering commitment to walking alongside displaced people, upholding their dignity, and advocating for justice.

The visit of the Apostolic Nuncio was more than a formal engagement,it was a moment of encounter, reflection, and renewed commitment. For JRS Ethiopia, it served as a powerful affirmation of its mission and strengthened the collective resolve to continue serving refugees with compassion and hope, even in the face of ongoing challenges.