June 20 is World Refugee Day

The need to belong, to be valued and respected, is fundamental to the quality of being fully human. Indeed it is the very foundation for human existence and the formation of human identity.

Humankind is birthed within community and each one of us has a desperate need to know we are accepted for who we are.

We all want a place to call home, where we can stand tall rooted in a sense of belonging and security where our basic material needs are met and we have sufficient emotional resources to replenish our soul. It has been said that the ‘Bible is the Ultimate Immigration Handbook: for its been written by, for, and about migrants, immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers.’1

The Bible begins with the migration of God’s Spirit and ends with John in exile on the Isle of Patmos. Between those two events, the uprooted people of God seek safety, sanctuary, and refuge, and the living God gives directions for welcoming the stranger.2

Humankind's story is a migration story. We all are, or have been migrants, immigrants, refugees, or asylum seekers. A vital part of the Biblical migration story and remains so today is the giving of hospitality and practical care, of offering a hand of welcome and acceptance to the stranger, and above all ensuring those new in our midst are given a fair go.

Rev. Chris Frazer

This year, World Refugee Day focuses on solidarity with refugees – for a world where refugees are welcomed. 

Refugees need our solidarity now more than ever. Solidarity means keeping our doors open, celebrating their strengths and achievements, and reflecting on the challenges they face. 

Solidarity with people forced to flee also means finding solutions to their plight – ending conflicts so they can return home in safety, ensuring they have opportunities to thrive in the communities that have welcomed them, and providing countries with the resources they need to include and support refugees. 

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