Today, I’m pleased to share a guest blog post from our Manager for Congregational Outreach, Matthew Herzberg. This post is part of a weekly email series for those who have signed up for the Refugee Sunday Kit. You can download the kit and signup for special materials and Matt’s email weekly update here.
June 22, 2014 is Refugee Sunday. Across the country, we are celebrating 75 years of ministry with migrants and refugees. Together, LIRS supporters, partners, and congregations have walked alongside more than 500,000 courageous migrants and refugees as they rebuild their lives from survival to success. I am confident you already know this. But does your network know? Does everyone in your congregation know? Spread the word beyond your walls and out into the community – lay down the seeds of welcome!
Through Refugee Sunday, we encourage all to share the joy of welcome and belonging. We strive for reciprocal relationship, for community building, for people to have not just shelter, but a home. Those are large and important goals. And while we need to get there, maybe your congregation or community needs to open some doors first.
So let’s start simple. LIRS has created sample announcements for your bulletins, newsletters, and communications. Share the Refugee Sunday banner, perfect for your Facebook cover photo or website header. And let’s get talking about #RefugeeSunday to our internet friends.
Thanks for sharing,
Matt
If you haven’t signed up for the Refugee Sunday Kit, click here. You can download the kit and get exclusive materials. As you plan your Refugee Sunday celebration, please consider Matt your first resource if you have any questions, need help, or just want to share! You can contact him at outreach@lirs.org.