World Refugee Day 2023

 WORLD REFUGEE DAY – June 20, 2023

World Refugee Day;

Honours the strength and courage of refugees, and encourages public awareness and support of refugees from around the world – people who have had to flee their home lands because of conflict or natural disaster. It is an international day organized by the United Nations and was first established in 2001 in recognition of the 50th Anniversary of the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees.  This year, the theme is “COMPASSION”.

There are currently 12 churches in the Diocese participating in refugee sponsorship. In addition the Diocese of Brandon has partnered with us to support a request from Brandon.

Between January – May, 2023, there have been 16 arrivals under the Diocese of Rupert’s Land Sponsorship Agreement with the Federal Government’s Private Sponsorship of Refugees Programme. These arrivals represent a total of 26 people currently being re-settled in Canada.

The Diocesan Refugee Committee has been re-established and will be a support to the Refugee Coordinator. The members are; Kathy Flemington (St. Paul’s, St. Matthew’s), Leanne Chase (St. Margaret’s), Colin Dorrian (St. Peter’s), Rick Morgan (St. George’s Crescentwood), and the Rev. John Dolloff (St. Mary la Prairie).

Monetary support for refugee sponsorships can be given to the Diocese of Rupert’s Land, Refugee Fund. Parishes who would like to participate in this ministry may contact Marlene Smith, Refugee Coordinator at refugee@rupertsland.ca  An information session can be arranged for you in the fall as you make plans for your Mission and Outreach Ministry, 2024.

Thank you to all who continue the work of sponsorship and settlement for people in need, as we live out the third Mark of Mission – Responding to Human need by loving service.

Marlene Smith.