Faithful to the charism of St. Eugene de Mazenod, the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate have long been recognized for their closeness to people who are excluded and wounded by injustice. Our Founder reminded us that we are sent to the most abandoned, and this conviction shapes our pastoral decisions and fuels our compassion. In the pierced and merciful Heart of Jesus, we discover the source of hope and the strength to work for justice and peace among the poor, with whom we share life and faith.
A Mission Rooted in JPIC and the Call of the Church
In recent years, the OMI General Service of Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation (JPIC)—in line with VIVAT International’s Action Plan—has given particular attention to pastoral care for migrants and refugees, recognizing them as among today’s most vulnerable faces of the poor. Many are forced to leave their homeland due to conflict, economic instability, or climate impacts, exposing them to exploitation and discrimination. In union with the universal Church, we seek to accompany them with dignity, solidarity, and hope.
Oblate missionaries are engaged in this ministry worldwide, yet the Western Sahara—particularly Laayoune and Dakhla, administered by Morocco—has become a vital mission frontier. Since 1954, the Oblates have led the Apostolic Prefecture here, carrying out parish ministry, promoting interreligious dialogue with our Muslim brothers and sisters, and caring for the poorest through Caritas.
The Growing Presence of Migrants
Around 2015, we witnessed a dramatic increase of migrants arriving in Laayoune and Dakhla. Their arrival brought vitality to our small Christian communities—but also revealed a new and urgent face of vulnerability, especially among women and children. In fidelity to our charism, we discerned the need to support these communities beyond parish boundaries by offering holistic assistance.
Working closely with Caritas Rabat and the local organization Saqia El Hamra, we opened two reception centers—one in each city—to respond to the most basic needs: safety, food, health, and dignity. Although initially motivated by goodwill more than expertise, with time, the ministry has become more professional, coordinated, and sustainable.
Strengthening Collaboration for Mission
A turning point came in 2022, when institutional restructuring required the Prefecture to assume full leadership of the migrant program. Despite the challenges of funding and training, we have witnessed God’s providence through the support of mission Procures, Oblate provinces, and Catholic organizations such as Manos Unidas, Caritas Spain, Caritas Italy, and several German dioceses.
We have also welcomed new collaborators, including Jesuits from Spain and the Esclavas de la Inmaculada Niña, forming a growing intercongregational team. Today, our mission includes three full-time staff members in administration and social accompaniment, and by 2025, this number will reach 17 personnel—social workers, a nurse, field mediators, and pastoral agents. Christians and Muslims, laity and religious, work together as a single family in service.
In Line with Global Commitments for Human Dignity
Our approach aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially:
- SDG 1: Ending poverty and hunger
- SDG 16–17: Promoting justice, peace, and strong partnerships
Our ministry is currently focused on humanitarian care, particularly health and psychosocial support, while ensuring a strong pastoral presence inspired by Oblate values of closeness, listening, mercy, and care for the most forgotten.
Looking Ahead with Courage
The Atlantic migration route continues to surge, bringing thousands seeking hope and survival. A comprehensive response is essential—beyond humanitarian assistance—to include training, empowerment, and access to livelihoods. Our mission embraces synodality and network-building in collaboration with the Dicastery for Integral Human Development and the RAEMH network.
Challenges persist—cultural diversity, interreligious cooperation, and the complexity of migration policies. Yet, we remain steadfast in witnessing the Gospel through concrete acts of solidarity:
“No gesture of compassion is too small when it helps restore dignity and builds bridges of peace.”
As the Church journeys forward in Western Sahara, the Oblates continue to see in every migrant the presence of Christ Himself—a Savior who walks with His people, especially those on the move, seeking a future of hope.
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