Birthday celebration at the Columban Border Ministry in the basement of the cathedral in Ciudad Juarez. Photo: Fr Alvaro Martinez
At the Columban Border Ministry in the basement of the cathedral in Ciudad Juarez, children’s birthdays are more than just passing dates - they are signs of hope. The celebrations happen on the last Friday of each month. Migrants who have travelled thousands of miles, leaving behind family, language, and things they know, can easily have their birthdays overlooked. But within the warm walls of the Cathedral, no one’s birthday is forgotten.
The Columban Border Ministry has long served as a place of refuge for people journeying north from countries across Latin America and beyond. Many arrive exhausted. Carrying little more than a backpack and a story marked by courage and sacrifice, they face great uncertainty. In the midst of waiting for asylum appointments, dealing with border policies, or planning the next step, celebrating a birthday becomes a powerful reminder: each life has dignity and worth.
When a birthday approaches, staff members and volunteers organise a small but heartfelt celebration. A nice homemade cake sits on the table. Colourful decorations adorn the room, and a small gift awaits the children celebrating a new year. Children laugh as they help hang balloons. Adults gather around to sing “Las Mañanitas” or “Happy Birthday” in Spanish and English. For a moment, the worries of migration give way to smiles, music, and shared humanity.
These celebrations are not extravagant. The cake might be simple, and the decorations modest. Yet the joy they generate is profound. For someone, like those children, who has crossed more than one country and lived through harsh moments in their short life, being surrounded by people who recognise their birthday can bring comfort and even tears. It sends a clear message: you are seen, valued, and belong.
In a border city often defined by movement and waiting, celebrating a child’s birthday becomes an affirmation of life itself. At the Columban Migrant Ministry, each candle lit is a symbol of resilience. Each song sung echoes with solidarity. And each embrace reminds migrants that even far from home, community can still be found.
We are grateful for the Columban Border Ministry in Mexico/USA supporters, who make these faces smile and allow us to provide care and assistance to thousands of migrants coming from many countries in Latin America.
Columban Fr Alvaro Martinez.
Related links
- Read more from the current Columban eBulletin
