How churches help refugees and displaced people
Refugees are people of any age who have crossed international borders for safety from war, persecution, or political unrest in their home country.
International Rescue Committee said that the majority return home once it is safe.
Meanwhile, others remain in refugee camps, and a minor percentage migrate to a third nation like the United States.
Welcoming Migrants and Displaced People
The United States has led the globe in resettling refugees since the 1970s, and its program is the largest in the world.
The UNHCR revealed that more than three million refugees worldwide have settled in all 50 states since 1975. Consequently, families forced from their homelands have become integral parts of American life.
They are not just our neighbors but also our friends and coworkers. They have become a constructive force in communities around the United States as teachers and entrepreneurs.
How Churches Assist Refugees, Displaced People in the US
Christians are responsible for making others feel at home when refugees move to our communities. But feeling helpless in the face of such an enormous need is simple.
The Immigration Coalition stated that even though Evangelicals have different opinions on refugee resettlement in the United States, there are several things on which we must all agree based on the Bible.
Do justice for the weak, welcome refugees into your midst, love your enemies, and create disciples of all nations. There are ways churches can assist refugees and displaced people in the US.
Pray for Refugees’ Homeland
Our broken world needs God alone to offer healing and harmony. Yet, your prayers are being heard by God.
Your prayers, then, are a powerful form of advocacy. Healing, tranquility, and security are God-given gifts you can ask for through prayer.
Offers English Classes
English-language schools and programs may surprise you with the number of international residents who enroll.
Our foreign community members attend our services, workshops, and events in groups, all intending to listen in and learn English. With that, they will be able to understand the Word of God and serve him in an earnest way.
Advocating Refugee Settlements
Christians should hold the leader of the country to his promise to help relocate refugees.
For Outreach Magazine, we can encourage our members of Congress to vote for the reinstatement of the U.S. refugee resettlement program.
Strengthening Families of Refugees With Ministries, Programs
Each and every one of our places of worship is supportive of families.
These ministries strongly emphasize bringing in new families and providing them with the resources they need to live out their faith. Also, they should prioritize investing in the well-being of immigrant and refugee families.
Partner with Organizations that Assist Refugees
Many organizations’ missions include ministering to persons who have been uprooted from their homes. Participating in this vital effort will have an extensive effect.
Church World Service offers various refugee-related services, like resettlement and advocacy, to help those displaced from their homes.
Aside from that, education and worship materials and an advocacy hub are available through the CRC Office of Social Justice with an emphasis on immigration and refugee concerns.
Donate Essential Items
In addition to monetary aid, resettlement groups will require the participation of trained volunteers and the donation of household goods to help newly arrived refugees.
As individuals, families, small groups, or churches, this is a wonderful opportunity to show Christ’s love to those who are beginning a new life in a foreign nation. It is important for small churches to make their interest known to larger groups like World Relief.
One of the aspects of deciding to relocate is verifying the community, especially local churches, that is willing to welcome immigrants.
Help Refugees Generate Income
Helping refugees find or generate income is one of the best ways to assist them. It may be as easy as creating a clothing exchange, teaching a new skill, or starting a food co-op.
According to The Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission, their congregation is involved with a group called Rising Village (RiSE). This group provides training on the use of domestic, industrial, and commercial sewing machines to refugees.
Women have gained the skills necessary to provide for their families by participating in this program.
Starting a Ministry That Serves Refugees and Displaced People
Launch a new ministry in your church that will serve the requirements of immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers.
Faithward suggested that you consider letting non-profit organizations that serve them use the facilities your church provides for refugees. These strategies help us treat our immigrant and refugee neighbors with dignity and respect, meet their needs in ways that strengthen families, and point them to God.
