Dear Friends,
This Thursday, June 20th, is World Refugee Day, and over the last several weeks we’ve reflected on the many ways that Episcopalians can join with Episcopal Migration Ministries’ affiliates to help resettling refugees find a successful new start in the United States. Volunteering, parish co-sponsorship and church donation drives all have a tremendous impact.
In addition, supportive new neighbors can help refugees with their life-changing transition by simply being present in their lives. This “ministry of presence” is about being with someone, rather than doing for someone. It’s about walking the path toward a hopeful future with them. For 25 years, Episcopal Migration Ministries (EMM) has lived the Episcopal Church’s commitment to walk that path with newcomers.
That’s what Caroline Kibler and Gail Reid have done. These members of St. Michael's in Austin, Texas, found the experience of ministering to an Iraqi refugee family was about more than simply giving. When Wadi Hassan and his family arrived last year, Gail, Caroline and a team of St. Michael’s members welcomed them, partnering with the local EMM affiliate office – Refugee Services of Texas – to extend hospitality through a ministry program called co-sponsorship.
“The night we met them at the airport it was obvious who they were as they came down the escalator,” Reid said. “I got goose bumps and tears in my eyes.”
Gail and Caroline quickly took on leadership roles in helping orient the family to life in a new community and a new culture. The parish offered moral support, material gifts and helped connect the family to opportunities for employment and education, among many other forms of aid, supplementing the services all refugees receive through EMM affiliate offices.
But it was the bond of friendship they formed that most aided the family’s transition and brought unexpected richness into Caroline’s and Gail’s lives. Wadi Hassan, the father and husband in the family, never imagined such a strong connection.
“These nice people helped us every day and every moment,” Hassan said. “I feel now that I live with my family again in Iraq. I have brothers and sisters.”
One year later, with Wadi’s family now settled, they remain connected to their friends from St. Michael’s. They keep in regular contact and get together often -- phone calls, dinners, picnics, games of mini-golf. In turn, the family has shared the gifts of their culture, their wisdom, and their warmth and laughter, welcoming Caroilne, Gail and others into their home.
“I just can't tell you how they have grown over the last year," Reid said. “It's great to have been part of that and continue to be part of that.”
As we celebrate World Refugee Day on June 20, consider being present with refugees in your own community. Whether new to this ministry or considering beginning again, EMM appreciates your support more than you know. It could change a refugee’s life. It could also change yours.
Please take a minute today to learn more about opportunities to help refugees through EMM by visiting www.episcopalchurch.org/emm.
Peace,
Deb Stein
Director
Episcopal Migration Ministries
