Many Christians and their churches across the Thames Valley are supporting refugees. Some have been engaging with refugees for years; for others it’s begun over the past year as people fleeing Afghanistan and Ukraine have arrived in our area. Some are working together with other local churches or community groups, others on their own; and the range of activity is amazing.
On Thursday 22nd September, from 7 to 9 pm, we're gathering together this amazing network in an online event. Join with us and other local churches to:
Gain an overview from experts in the refugee sector
Hear inspiring and encouraging stories of what churches have been doing
Hear from some refugees who have come to this area
Share learning and experiences in breakout room discussions on key topics
Consider what’s next – challenges & opportunities
Hear about a new network for mutual support
Pray for this important ministry
Speakers and session leaders to include:
Abdullah Alkhalaf, Syrian refugee resettled in Oxford
Steve Barber, Minister of Orchard Baptist Church, Bicester, and Interim Regional Minister, Southern Counties Baptist Association
Mark Goldring, Director of Asylum Welcome, Oxford
Nick Harborne, CEO of Reading Refugee Support Group
Krish Kandiah, Founding director of the Sanctuary Foundation
Hannah Ling, Social Justice Adviser, Diocese of Oxford
Adam Townsend, Coordinator of Aylesbury Vineyard’s Ukrainian Friends and Family Hub
Fiona Winterbottom, Greyfriars and New Hope, Reading, Community Sponsorship group Project Manager
Topics for discussion to include: Supporting Ukrainians. Community Sponsorship. Helping refugees into work. Helping refugees find housing. Helping refugees into higher education.
Click here to see the full programme and to register.
You will then be sent the Zoom link shortly before the event.