Episcopal Migration Ministries, a vital component of The Episcopal Church, has its roots in the early 20th century. Their history is notable, their accomplishments are impressive; over 100,000 people have been resettled in America. Please visit Episcopal Migration Ministries, at this link
Here is their Mission: “EMM welcomes refugees, educates communities, and mobilizes congregations to advocate for the protection and rights of all migrants.”
A good place for congregations to start would be the “Resources for Congregations” link.
There are a number of assets here. Suggestion: Convene your parish group, review the possibilities, and pick one. Please also consider hosting a “Refugee Sunday.” A toolkit for this is available upon request. I’ve reviewed it. It gives a congregation great flexibility to plan out a special observance. Start easy or go “all-in.”
I recognize that some of the congregations in our Diocese may already be involved with Episcopal Migration Ministries. If so, thank you! If you are curious, please explore the website. If you would like to speak with me, please contact me. And, if you have a success story to share, I’d be grateful to hear it. Remember, our Diocesan Global Goals Task Force has a Matching Grant program and if your church has been working with EMM or another international organization and would like to apply, check out the information found here at this Know Your Story link.
Exodus 23:9 “You shall not oppress a stranger, you know the heart of a stranger, for you were a stranger in the land of Egypt.”
Thanks again,
Rick Hager, LSW and EMM Liaison for Diocese of New Jersey Global Goals Task Force
rickhager8@gmail.com
Cell: 732-232-9347
