Caring for Afghan refugees
We have all seen the devastation and the horrific pictures as the American and British forces have pulled out of Afghanistan after 20 years; leaving behind so many who have worked with them, putting their lives in real danger. But what about those that have become refugees? And what about those who have been dispersed to your city, town or borough? They know very little of the culture of this strange nation, they dislike the weather which is cold and the food which is so bland. The English language is unknown to them making them feel voiceless (Prov 31:8-9) and their hearts scream for those they have left behind. They need serving at this neediest of times and most of all they need to feel the love of Jesus and they feel this through his church.
Do you know if any Afghans have been dispersed to your area? Why not contact your local council diversity officer and find out. In the Borough of Spelthorne, south of Heathrow 58 Afghan refugees have been dispersed to be settled in the borough. Open Door Church Sunbury, which already runs in-person and on-line ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) classes quickly offered the local council free English lessons for the refugees which were eagerly accepted. These classes are targeted to help the alienation caused by language and culture but also show the love of Christ and a listening ear to hurting people. “Every church could run ESOL classes” says Andy Phillips one of the Elders at Open Door Church, “If you can speak and write English and have taught children to read you can reach out to foreign nationals with English, reaching the nations in your Jerusalem!”
At this time it is urgent Commission churches make every effort to see if they can serve these broken and desperate refugees in so much pain with a helping hand and the love of Jesus. Open Door Church start ESOL classes in the hotel the refugees are living in from September. Please pray for them.
To learn more or to find out how your church can become more multi-cultural through ESOL classes please contact Andy at Open Door Church Sunbury on: andy@opendoorchurchsunbury.com
