Refugee Resettlement
The U.S. government anticipates resettlement of 40,000 Afghan allies into U.S. communities by Thanksgiving, with an additional 30,000 likely by Christmas, and every possible congregation is needed to welcome! Contact Disciples Refugee & Immigration Ministries’ (RIM) Director, Rev. Dr. Sharon Stanley-Rea, to speak, preach, or present a program about Refugee Resettlement with your congregation: sstanley@dhm.disciples.org/202-957-7826, go here for information, and consider applying for a Week of Compassion mini-grant to assist your welcoming work.
RIM offers these resources for congregations to encourage awareness, worship, and resettlement interest:
Resettlement Resources by Region here.
Worship Resources:
* Contact RIM’s Director, Rev. Dr. Sharon Stanley-Rea, to speak, preach, or present a program about Refugee Resettlement with your congregation!: sstanley@dhm.disciples.org or 202-957-7826
*Download a Faith Prayer Toolkit at: https://www.lirs.org/sacred-silence
*Find another Prayer for Afghanistan at: https://www.bread.org/blog/prayer-afghanistan
*Share and Sing this hymn, “We Pray for Afghanistan’s People Today” by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette: https://www.carolynshymns.com/we_pray_for_afghanistans_people_today.html
*Music Video from beloved Afghan composer, who dedicates his song “Salaam Afghanistan” to Afghan refugees and others praying still to escape: https://welcome.us/stories/beloved-afghan-composer-dedicates-song-to-recent-refugees
*Engage your congregation to advocate for protection of Afghans here.
Afghan Cultural Information:
*Useful tips and links to cultural backgrounders and “Dos and Don’ts” from CWS: https://www.ascentria.org/Ascentria/files/0d/0d756f44-342c-4f78-aec5-8b6734b1c12c.pdf
*Learn insights into Afghan Culture through this informative Peace Corps Community Webinar.
Toolkit on Afghanistan: Stories, Recipes, Music & more, released in 2020 by LIRS: https://www.lirs.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/LIRS_GATHER_Afghanistan_2020_Community_Toolkit_vF.pdf
Recommended Books:
*For Younger Children: Four Feet, Two Sandals by Karen Lynn Williams and Khadra Mohammed
*For Elementary & Middle School Students: We Are Displaced by Malala Yousafzai (2019) & The Lines We Cross by Randa Abdel-Fattah (2017)
*For Adults: Multiple best books, such as The Kite Runner, A Thousand Splendid Suns, Earth and Ashes, and more reviewed here: https://theculturetrip.com/asia/afghanistan/articles/traumatic-terrain-the-best-books-about-afghanistan/
Welcome a Refugee Family!
The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) has had a long and close refugee resettlement partnership with Church World Service. Their affiliate offices are located in the areas listed here. and find specific information below about each office. However, if your congregation is not near to a CWS office, RIM can guide you about how to connect with the offices closest to you to offer refugee resettlement!
How to Help With Resettlement
This resource from Church World Service details how you can assist with Refugee Resettlement.
Bethany Christian Services
1050 36th St., Suite 400
Grand Rapids, MI 49508
3 Ways You Can Help refugees in this area:
- Welcome and assist an arriving family as a co-sponsor or be part of a move-in team to help set up an apartment for a newly arriving family
- Transportation assistance
- Donations.
Refugee Services of Texas – Dallas
9696 Skillman St., Suite 320
Dallas, TX 75243
3 Ways You Can Help refugees in this area:
- Form or join a Welcome Team to set-up apartments for new arriving refugees – collect, set-up and/or decorate homes for refugees, pick up the family from the airport and introduce them to their new home in Dallas!
- Mentorship – Mentor a family or an individual to help adjusting to the US by spending time together for a minimum of 3 months for 8 h per month
- Donation Drives – Collect hygiene articles, school supplies, TV’s, Laptops (in good condition) for refugees in need and deliver those items to our office or directly to families in need.
Kentucky Refugee Ministries Louisville
969-B Cherokee R.
Louisville, KY 40204
3 Ways You Can Help refugees in this area:
- Community co-sponsorship / volunteering with one family
- Financial contributions
- Partner by hiring a refugee or renting an apartment or home to a refugee.
Kentucky Refugee Ministries Lexington
1710 Alexiandria Dr., Suite 2
Lexington, KY 40504
3 Ways You Can Help refugees in this area:
- Co-Sponsorship
- In-Kind and Financial Donations
- ESL Tutors.
Community Refugee and Immigration Services
1925 E. Dublin Granville Rd. 102
Columbus, OH 43229
3 Ways You Can Help refugees in this area:
- Welcome Teams
- Advocacy
- Financial Donations for supporting programs and emergency needs.
Opening Doors
1111 Howe Ave. Suite 124
Sacramento, CA 95825
3 Ways You Can Help refugees in this area:
- Co-Sponsorship
- Mentoring/In-home ESL tutors
- Welcome kit donations.
Refugee Services of Texas – Amarillo
1101 Fritch Highway
Amarillo, TX 79108
- Volunteer to join a welcome team to assist newly-arrived refugees
- Financial Support
- Host a Salaam Supper and gather friends, family, colleagues and/or members of your community for a meal to learn more about refugees and to raise awareness and funding to support welcome.
Lutheran Family Services Nebraska
2301 O St.
Lincoln, NE 68510
3 Ways You Can Help refugees in this area:
- Co-Sponsorship
- Volunteers and Mentors
- Donation Drives.
CWS South Florida
1924 NW 84th Ave
Doral, FL 33126
3 Ways You Can Help refugees in this area:
- Welcome Team Volunteers – Create a group to aid in welcoming a newcomer family
- Welcome Home Kits – Kit Information can be found on our website
- Sponsorships.
RefugeeOne
4753 N. Broadway Ste 401
Chicago, IL 60640
3 Ways You Can Help refugees in this area:
- Volunteer to help newly-arrived refugees as they adjust to life in Chicago
- Make a donation to help refugees already living in Chicago build new lives of opportunity and self-reliance
- Advocate for refugees who are still hoping to find safety here in the United States.
Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon (EMO)/Sponsors Organized to Assist Refugees
7931 NE Halsey St., Ste 314
Portland, OR 97213
3 Ways You Can Help refugees in this area:
- Assistance with transportation for refugees
- Collecting furniture and household items to donate to refugees
- Emergency financial assistance.
Journey’s End Refugee Services
2495 Main St., Suite 530
Buffalo, NY 14214
3 Ways You Can Help refugees in this area:
- Home Again Program/Co-Sponsorship
- Donation Drives: We often need specific items to support our new families, such as furniture, winter clothes, or school supplies. You would work with our staff to identify the current needs and then gather the items. Great for groups and teens
- ELL Tutors: A home tutor visits a refugee individual in their home once a week to teach them English.
CWS Jersey City
26 Journal Square, Suite 600
Jersey City, NJ 07306
3 Ways You Can Help refugees in this area:
- Rental Assistance for asylees released from immigration detention
- Co-sponsorship of asylee cases
- Job search coaching.
CWS Lancaster
308 E. King St.
Lancaster, PA 17602
3 Ways You Can Help refugees in this area:
- Volunteer as a Transportation Assistant and transport recently arrived refugees to and from appointments
- Hold a donation drive of in-kind items or a fundraiser to support CWS Lancaster programs
- Create a welcome team to accompany a recently arrived refugee family in their transition to the Lancaster community.
CWS Greensboro
122 N. Elm St., Suite 607
Greensboro, NC 27401
3 Ways You Can Help refugees in this area:
- Join a Welcome Team to set-up an apartment
- Create a Match Team of 5-7 people who commit to 6 months of volunteer support for a refugee family
- Throw a donation drive of in-kind items or a fundraiser to support CWS Greensboro programs.
New American Pathways
2300 Henderson Mill Rd. NE, Suite 100
Atlanta, GA 30345
3 Ways You Can Help refugees in this area:
- Apartment Set-Ups
- After school volunteering (Sep-May then summer camp June-July)
- Civic Engagement and Advocacy.
Exodus Refugee Immigration
2457 E. Washington St., Suite A
Indianapolis, IN 46201
- Become a Welcome Team for a newly arrived refugee family
- Tutor/Teach English to refugees after they arrive
- Organize a donation drive.
CWS Harrisonburg
250 E. Elizabeth St., Suite 215
Harrisonburg, VA 22802
3 Ways You Can Help refugees in this area:
- Create a Linking Communities Team who can connect to newly arrived refugee family and walk with them through their transition.
- Commit to an ongoing financial gift to support CWS Harrisburg’s work with refugees in our community during uncertain times
- Sign up to offer emergency housing to refugee families who have nowhere else to go.
CWS Durham
112 S Duke St., #4B
Durham, NC 27701
3 Ways You Can Help refugees in this area:
- Form a Welcome Team and help collect and furnish an arriving families home
- Hold a fundraiser drive to support CWS Durham programs
- Volunteer to provide one on one support to newcomers, assist our teachers in classes, or provide support in our office.
Ascentria
261 Sheep Davis Rd., A-1
Concord, NH 03301
3 Ways You Can Help refugees in this area:
- Donate items or coordinate a drive to collect basic necessities
- Co-Sponsor a newly arrived family
- ESL Tutor
Refugee Story
Hussam Alroustom, a Syrian Refugee, fled Syria on March 23rd, 2013. After his house was shelled by a missile from the Syrian Army. Read his story.
Welcoming Refugees Through Ecumenical Partnership
Churches are now asked to consider helping with at least THREE of the following types of welcoming activities, according to the church’s choice: setting up an apartment for a new refugee or family, providing a contribution for rent, gathering furniture and household items, stocking the pantry with culturally appropriate groceries, meeting the refugee/s at the airport, providing a welcoming meal, accompanying the refugee/s to a medical appointment, teaching basic English or financial literacy education, assisting the refugees to prepare for a job, offering transportation assistance, and creatively “touring” the refugees throughout your neighborhood! Click here to download the “Co-Sponsorship” form.
There are more refugees in the world now than SINCE World War II. Please contact Sharon at our Refugee & Immigration Ministries office at sstanley@dhm.disciples.org or 202-957-7826 for more information about refugee engagement options in your area!
“I was a stranger and you welcomed me…” View 
a video about Refugee Resettlement.
Statement in Support of Just, Humane, and Compassionate Immigration Reform
RIM’s Washington, D.C., office works regularly to help ensure refugee needs and supports are strongly maintained. This includes working to include and reinforce refugee specific language as a priority in Congress’ current immigration reform discussions. See our Disciples “Statement in Support of Just, Compassionate Immigration Reform” which highlights the need to improve protection for refugees and asylees in our legal system.
Office of Refugee Resettlement: Expanding Mandate, Insufficient Funding
Each year, millions of refugees around the world are forced to flee their homes due to violence and persecution. While less than one percent of refugees will ever be resettled to a third country, the U.S. has a long and proud tradition of offering life-saving protection to refugees who cannot return home safely or remain where they are. Formally established in 1980, the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program welcomed 58,238 refugees in FY12 and in FY13 refugee arrivals are expected to reach 70,000. Read more.
Refugee Resettlement Myths Busted
This Refugee Myth Buster Poster is a resource from the Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Services.
Refugee Related Legislation/Policies to Watch and Track
May 10, 2013
A Real Opportunity to Improve Protections for the Persecuted
At a time when the Senate is considering the modernization of our immigration laws, they should also take measures to ensure the U.S. strengthens protections for those fleeing persecution. Christians and other faith groups are being targeted in many places around the world. Ethnic and political persecution is a significant problem as well.
The Senate immigration bill that is being marked up this week, S.744, the Border Security, Economic Opportunity and Immigration Modernization Act, includes several provisions to increase the efficiency and improve protections for refugees, asylum seekers and stateless people. Read more.
May 5, 2013
Statement on Refugee and Asylum Provisions
At a time when the Senate is considering the modernization of our immigration laws, we also have the opportunity to ensure that the United States strengthens protections for those fleeing persecution, including the many Christians facing religious persecution around the world.
The bipartisan Senate immigration bill being marked up this week includes several important provisions that increase program efficiency and improve protection of refugees, asylum seekers and stateless people. For example, it eliminates the arbitrary one-year filing deadline so that those who have a valid persecution claim are not turned away because they did not file their claims within a year. This often happens due to challenges understanding our system, navigating the asylum system in English and completing the extensive work involved in preparing an asylum application. Read the article.
Recent Posts
Protecting Afghan Allies: One Year Later
August 10, 2022Protecting Afghan Allies: One Year Later Without the Afghan Adjustment Act, lives of Afghan allies remain in legal limbo Why Support the Afghan Adjustment Act?…
Read more >
“Heal Not Harm Asylum Event” 7/18, 4pm ET
July 18, 2022Heal Not Harm Asylum Event Today at 4pm ET Our faith calls upon us to heal and alleviate suffering, not to harm the vulnerable. Yet,…
Read more >
Critical DACA Hearing Today, Pray, Learn & Act!
July 6, 2022Offer a Prayer Now for DACA Recipients–as Crucial Hearings are TODAY in the 5th District Court of Appeals in New Orleans! Today’s “Texas v. US”…
Read more >
“Holy Voices for World Refugee Day” TONIGHT!
June 13, 2022“Holy Voices for World Refugee Day” TONIGHT! REGISTER HERE to Join Us TONIGHT, June 13th, at 7 pm ET to kick off World Refugee Day week,…
Read more >
Black Immigrant Concerns Remain, As Black History Month Ends
March 2, 2022Take Action for Black Immigrants HERE & Pray for Black Immigrant Justice HERE Last week, faith partners joined with these Black immigrants to be guided into Prayers…
Read more >
Prayers & Resources to Support Fleeing & Grieving Ukrainians
March 1, 2022immigrants of Ukrainian descent have long been neighbors in the U.S. & Canada. With over 1.3 million persons of Ukrainian origin in Canada, it has…
Read more >
Citizenship Pathways Updates, Invites, & Actions
December 17, 2021What’s Happened Lately with Efforts for Pathways to Citizenship? The House of Representatives passed the Build Back Better (BBB) Act last month, which includes work…
Read more >
Advent Devotions: Black Migrant Journeys
December 2, 2021RIM invites you to Sign Up HERE to Join Us in Praying and Acting for Justice in this 7 Part Series of Advent Devotions, “Journeys with Black…
Read more >
Sign on Pathways to Citizenship Faith Letter!
October 15, 2021Now is a Critical Time to Encourage Congress to Uphold Decades Long Promises for Permanent Protections for Immigrant Families The fight for citizenship for undocumented…
Read more >
Eloy Detention Center Christmas Card Project
October 14, 2021Looking for a hands-on mission project for your children, youth, family, or congregation to do for the 2021 Holidays? Send cards to asylum seekers at…
Read more >
Corrected Link: Afghan Welcome Webinar Tues. 9/14, 12 Noon ET
September 21, 2021You’re Invited!: Tuesday, September 14, 12 Noon ET “Afghan Welcome & Refuge” WOC/RIM Webinar Disciples throughout the country are engaging in welcome for Afghan refugees,…
Read more >
Afghans: Faithful & Urgent Responses
September 14, 2021Top Priorities NOW are to: 1) Help Afghan Allies & Vulnerable Populations Get Into & Evacuate Kabul Airport 2) Develop Quick & Safe Processing to…
Read more >
Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia, IIC, and Partners Deliver over 300,000 Signatures to ICE Demanding Release of Families
July 29, 2020Washington, DC: Earlier today, Representative Sylvia Garcia (TX-29) joined representatives from over 15 other national faith-based and immigrants’ rights groups to deliver over 300,000 petition signatures…
Read more >
Join: “Dismantling Racism in Family Immigration” Webinar
July 7, 2020July 7, Tuesday, 6 pm ET/3 pm PT – Join Webinar on Dismantling Racism in Family Immigration. Black Immigrant Leaders Speak about”Dismantling Racism” Needed for…
Read more >
Disciples Immigration Leaders Respond to SCOTUS DACA Decision – and Invite YOU to Join in Monday, June 22nd “DACA Day” Events
June 19, 2020(June 18, 2020) Today, in a 5-4 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the Trump administration cannot immediately end the Deferred Action for Childhood…
Read more >
Supreme Court DACA Decision Coming Soon–How Can You & Your Church Offer Support?
June 18, 2020The U.S. Supreme Court is due to announce its decision soon on whether the DACA program – which has lifted up the lives and provided work…
Read more >
Webinar: Protecting Asylees & Detainees, Ending Family Separation!
June 18, 2020Join Our Faith Webinar! “Detention, Asylum, Family Separation & COVID-19”, Wed., June 3, 4 PM ET/1 PM PT As people of faith, how will we respond…
Read more >
DACA Monday Morning Prayers 9:30-10:00 AM ET
June 18, 2020Asian Pacific Heritage & DACA, & a Disciples DACA Story TODAY & Every Monday Until Supreme Court Justices Announce Their DACA Decision! Disciples Refugee &…
Read more >
Living Out Pentecost’s Compassion and Unity
June 18, 2020Supporting Values of Care & Justice for Farmworkers & Meatpackers See our RIM Pentecost Resource & Many Others Online HERE. Image right: CBS This Morning…
Read more >
Family Separation–Here We Go Again!
June 18, 2020The past week’s headlines are shocking enough: “More Than 900 Children Have Been Expelled Under a Pandemic Border Policy” – The New York Times “The Trump…
Read more > Family Separation: Next Round, New Tragedies
June 18, 2020The past week’s headlines are shocking enough: “More Than 900 Children Have Been Expelled Under a Pandemic Border Policy” – The New York Times “The Trump…
Read more >
RIM in the Pandemic
June 18, 2020Every day, Disciples Refugee & Immigration Ministries (RIM) seeks to follow the call of the prophets for justice. As RIM shared recently in the Washington Post, Jeremiah’s…
Read more >
Rural Faith Leaders Join Workers Calling for Protection and Relief from COVID-19 Outbreaks
May 1, 2020Washington, DC – Earlier today, rural faith leaders and organizers gathered on a press call to discuss the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on rural…
Read more >
Holy Week & Protecting Immigrants During COVID-19
April 20, 2020This Holy Week, Follow Jesus’ Steps & Journey with Immigrants During COVID-19 As we seek to walk the way of the cross during this tragic…
Read more >
Join DACA Prayers and Webinar before Supreme Court Decision!
April 13, 2020Court’s Decision on DACA Could Be Announced as Early as Monday! Here’s What’s Needed: *JOIN “MONDAY MORNING DACA PRAYERS” online from 9:30-10 am ET each…
Read more >
DACA Virtual Prayer Vigil
March 18, 2020Tune in for Our #FAITH4DACA “Blessing Our Home” Prayer Vigil on Wed., Mar. 18, Noon Eastern! Join us 3/18 for a #Faith4DACA FB Live event!…
Read more >
COVID-19 and Care for Immigrants
March 17, 2020In these days of public health uncertainties as we seek to care for one another and ourselves, how can we also keep following God’s call…
Read more >
LENT Journeying with Jesus Building Partnerships with DACA Leaders
February 26, 2020This LENT, Pray and Act with #FAITH4DACA. “Facing the Future, Together!” An 8 Part Devotion Series IIC Lenten FULL DEVOTIONS DACA2020 FINAL This Lent, connect, support, and…
Read more >
#Faith4Asylum Campaign Launch
January 29, 2020Capitol Hill Prayer Vigil Marks One Year Since “Remain in Mexico” Policy Sent Migrants to Danger Vigils Across U.S. Demand an End to Anti-Asylum Policies…
Read more >Flores Amicus Brief Filed
January 29, 2020Disciples Home Missions, with Refugee and Immigration Ministries, join other faith partners in Amicus brief to ensure children stay protected through Flores policies. Go here…
Read more >
Pampered for the Holidays!
January 3, 2020Serving Refugee Neighbors over Advent & Epiphany We usually end our telling of the story of Christmas Eve with Mary and Joseph nestled snug together…
Read more >
2019 Advent & Epiphany Devotional Series
November 26, 2019“Ignite the Light” is the theme of a six part Advent & Ephiphany devotional series on Immigration. The first Sunday of Advent is December 1st….
Read more >
Join IIC Webinar #Faith4DACA 10/30 at 3 PM ET – DACA Going to Supreme Court Soon!
October 29, 2019Dear Friends, DACA IS GOING TO SUPREME COURT NOVEMBER 12th SIGN UP HERE FOR WEBINAR OCTOBER 30TH AT 3 PM ET/ 12 PM PT to learn how people…
Read more >
Border-Wide Actions on the 25th Anniversary of Operation Gatekeeper, Beginning Oct. 1st Thru Oct.
October 2, 2019Hello, All, Please see below information of actions all along the southern border, beginning October 1 st and throughout the month. If you are able to participate as…
Read more >
President Cuts Refugee Resettlement to 18,000 for FY2020
October 2, 2019Sept. 27, 2019 – Last night, the administration which two years ago cut refugee numbers from our historic average of 95,000 refugees annually to 50,000,…
Read more >
Religious Leaders Denounce Trump Administration’s Latest Attack on Immigrant Children
August 28, 2019“The United States should be doing more to protect refugee children, not actively participating in their oppression” Washington, DC (August 21, 2019) – Religious organizations…
Read more > DHS Raids Other Agencies’ Budgets to Fund More Immigrant Detention: Religious Leaders React
August 28, 2019Washington, DC (August 27, 2019) – The Trump administration has alerted Congress that it is raiding the budgets of other federal programs, to dedicate even…
Read more >
Responding to the Harmful New Public Charge Rules
August 13, 2019On August 12, the administration announced its new Public Charge rule, which can drastically reduce numbers of legal immigrants who can enter and stay in…
Read more >
El Paso Vigil Resources
August 12, 2019El Paso Vigil Resources: To Remember and Re-Commit Against Violence Hold a Vigil to honor lives lost in the nation’s largest mass shooting against immigrants…
Read more >Faith Leaders Denounce White Supremacy and Call Administration to Welcome Immigrants
August 8, 2019National Faith Organizations Denounce White Supremacy in the Wake of the El Paso Shooting and Call on the Administration to Welcome Immigrants The Rev. Teresa…
Read more >
Continue to Protect Against Immigration Raids – How We All Can Help!
July 16, 2019I cry aloud to God, aloud to God, and he will hear me In the day of my trouble I seek the Lord; in the night…
Read more >
Protect Against Immigration Raids – How We All Can Help!
July 16, 2019“Whoever goes to the Lord for safety, whoever remains under the protection of the Almighty,can say to God, ‘You are my defender and protector. You…
Read more >
Lights for Liberty
July 16, 2019PLEASE participate as you can in any of the many “Lights for Liberty” events being held throughout the United States TONIGHT in support of positive solutions for children…
Read more >
Ways to Help Children & Families at the Border
July 16, 2019Print out the image at right to share with your congregation. Please note that congregations and individuals are NOT allowed to send toothbrushes, clothes, or…
Read more >
Join Disciples RIM Events at GA
July 16, 2019Go HERE to sign up for special Refugee & Immigration Vigil for the Children at General Assembly in Des Moines, and to let us know which…
Read more >Media Advisory
June 20, 2019MEMBERS OF CONGRESS, REFUGEES, AND FAITH LEADERS SPEAK ON WORLD REFUGEE DAY Press conference will highlight bipartisan support for restoring U.S. leadership in refugee protection…
Read more >
Letter in Support of Refugee Protection & Resettlement
June 7, 2019Today, as World Refugee Day soon approaches on June 20th, Disciples Refugee & Immigration Ministries sent this letter to all US legislators, expressing our commitment…
Read more >
Join Disciples in Prayer & Solidarity as “Faith Floods the Courtroom” in Tucson
June 6, 2019Seven Disciples leaders from Arizonia; including Rev. Jay Deskins, Rev. Kelley Dick, Rev. Job Cobos, Rev. Bob Howard, Rev. Al Beasley, Dave Coatworth, and Lauryn…
Read more >
Dream & Promise Act Offers Hope for Dreamers, TPS, DED
June 5, 2019Rev. Terri Hord Owens publicly stated support for Dreamers, Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) recipients on Monday when she said: “The…
Read more >
May 8-9 Refugee Advocacy Days and June 16 Refugee Welcome Sunday
May 6, 2019Disciples Friends of Refugees, This year, the administration has set a national U.S. refugee admissions goal at 30,000 – the lowest level in U.S. history….
Read more >
RIM 8-Part Lent Devotional
March 5, 2019Rim announces an 8-part devotional series for Lent. You may find it here. Topics include: Ash Wednesday–Walls Built First in Our Hearts Week 1 Lent—Walls…
Read more >
Barriers, Beds, a Bill & the Border: Understanding Potential Impacts
February 18, 2019Avoiding a shutdown, Congress passed a funding bill late this week that included remaining FY 2019 appropriations. Among the seven areas funded was the Department…
Read more >
Urge Congress to Protect Refugees & Save the Resettlement Program
February 18, 2019January 27, marked the second anniversary of the Muslim Ban. During this time, we’ve seen firsthand the painful human impacts of negative administrative changes and…
Read more >
Faith Leaders on the Morality of a Border Wall
February 18, 2019The Disciples General Minister & President, Global Ministries, and Refugee & Immigration Ministries leaders join in this Statement of Faith Leaders on the Morality of…
Read more >
Christian Leaders Welcome Muslim-American Women to Congress
January 28, 2019The Rev. Dr. Sharon Stanley-Rea, Director of Disciples Refugee & Immigration Ministries, was among a delegation of Christian leaders who delivered a welcome message to…
Read more >
Raise Your Faith Voice
January 23, 2019Raise Your Faith Voice on Senate Immigration Bill & Gov’t Shutdown! Call Before Thurs. Vote! Proposed Senate Immigration Bill–Evaluate the Risks & Join a Faith Call…
Read more >
Protect Liberians with DED
January 23, 2019Please Sign On NOW as Faith Leaders to Protect Liberians with DED!! Last weekend, Liberians from our Disciples Whosoever Will Christian Church in Maryland inspired…
Read more >
Posadas National Week of Action
December 14, 2018Please Join the Week of Action Around the Country In These Ways!: Go HERE to learn about 60+ faith and community actions happening this week…
Read more >
Letter to Congress on Anti-Immigrant Tactics
December 5, 2018800 Clergy Sign Letter to Congress Rebuking Trump’s Anti-Immigrant Tactics Letter recommends three congressional actions to end demonizing politics and funding policies that incite violence…
Read more >
Asylum & Appropriations Alert
December 2, 2018Asylum and Appropriations Alert Dec218FINAL2 Tell Congress to Protect Families & Stop Fueling Excessive Detention, Deportation, and Border Militarization: National Faith Call-in Week Dec. 3-7 Images…
Read more >
Remember the Farmworkers this Thanksgiving
November 21, 2018Who Grows Food for our Feasts? and The Cries of the Harvesters. Check out these resources for Thanksgiving. Who Grows Food for our Feasts? provides education…
Read more >
Advent & Epiphany Immigration & Refugee Themed 8 Part Devotions
November 17, 2018Please see and share here our 2018 Advent and Epiphany Devotions: Advent 2018 IIC Devotions . This year, we invite you to join in a spiritual…
Read more >
Faith Leaders Support for Asylum Seekers
October 30, 2018Learn more about Asylum Seekers, and How You Can Help by going here: https://www.discipleshomemissions.org/missions-advocacy/refugee-immigration-ministries/immigrants/ Rev. Terri Hord Owens joined other national faith leaders this morning…
Read more >
State by State Fact Sheets About Immigrant Communities
October 23, 2018Want to learn more about immigrants in your own state? Go here for state by state Fact Sheets from the American Immigration Council!
Read more >
Video Clips
October 19, 2018Now available is a list of selected video clips related to multiple immigration and refugee topics. Go here to view.
Read more >
Refugee Alert! Call Now to Support Refugee Resettlement!
October 16, 2018This month, the administration named a refugee resettlement goal that is the historically lowest number ever (only 30,000)–despite the highest number of global refugees than…
Read more >
Karen Evans, First Christian Church, Des Moines, IA #Pray4Refugees
September 27, 2018“My name is Karen Evans. I’ve had the opportunity to work for the last four years in a volunteer ESL program, and work with the…
Read more >
Elder Mike Simonson, Downtown Disciples Church, Des Moines, IA #Pray4Refugees
September 27, 2018“I’m Mike Simonson, with Downtown Disciples in Des Moines, and I’m also one of the chairs of the Missions Committee for the Disciples General Assembly…
Read more >
Rev. Amy Spangler-Dunning, Des Moines, IA #Pray4Refugees
September 27, 2018“My name is Amy Spangler-Dunning. I am a clergy person in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), in the Upper Northwest. I am also a…
Read more >
Chrissy Stonebraker-Martinez, Cleveland, OH #Pray4Refugees
September 26, 2018“Hi, I’m Chrissy Stonebraker-Martinez, Co-Director, Inter-Religious Task Force on Central America & Colombia in Cleveland, Ohio. I just want you all to know we have…
Read more >
Rev. Suzanne Stout, Des Moines, IA #Pray4Refugees
September 26, 2018“I am Suzanne Stout, the Pastor of First Christian Church in Des Moines, IA….I have had the opportunity of working with refugees both in Florida…
Read more >
Rev. Debbie Griffin, Des Moines, IA #Pray4Refugees
September 26, 2018“It’s my joy and blessing to be the pastor of Downtown Disciples in Des Moines, Iowa. I wanted to tell you about two refugees I…
Read more >
Upper Midwest #Pray4Refugees
September 26, 2018“Sometimes we experience things in our lives that you don’t realize the significance of until much later. I had the privilege of presiding at the…
Read more >
Dallas Texas in the Southwest #Pray4Refugees
September 19, 2018“Dallas is a city that is reliant on refugees and immigrants, because they define, assist, participate in, and grow our culture. I can’t imagine a…
Read more >Faith Leaders Oppose Historically Low Resettlement Goal for FY19; Urge Administrations to Resettle 75,000
September 19, 2018Responding to Secretary Pompeo’s recent press conference that set refugee admissions goal at 30,000 during the worst refugee crisis in human history, members of the…
Read more >
AZ Region #Pray4Refugees
September 18, 2018“As a faith leader, I believe we have a moral obligation to welcome the stranger in our midst. That is why for the past several…
Read more >
VA Region #Pray4Refugees
September 17, 2018“The topic of refugee resettlement is near and dear to my heart. Our country is a land of opportunity, and I hope a land of…
Read more >
Northeastern Region #Pray4Refugees
September 14, 2018Our Disciples Pastor of Multilingual & Cross-Sectional Worship at Park Avenue Christian Church in NY reminds that, “Refugees are very close to the heart and…
Read more >
Christian Denominations Join Forces to Call on the White House to #Welcome75k Refugees
September 13, 2018Disciples Refugee & Immigration Ministries sponsors and speaks at a White House Press Conference on September 12 to urge that 75,000 refugees be resettled in…
Read more >
SW #Pray4Refugees
September 13, 2018“Today, I light a candle of prayer for refugees, seeking protection from religious, political, and any form of persecution. Since 1985, our region has been…
Read more >
Ill./Wis. #Pray4Refugees
September 12, 2018“Refugees in this world need our help, desperately. They don’t choose to lose their homes, lifestyle, culture. They leave…because of forces outside of their control….
Read more >
Oregon/SW Idaho #Pray4Refugees
September 11, 2018Rev. Doug Wirt, Co-Regional Minister in the Oregon/Southwest Idaho Region, joins Rev. Terri to #Pray4Refugees and urge the US to resettle at least 75,000 refugees…
Read more >
NE Region Joins #Pray4Refugees
September 10, 2018Rev. Stephanie Kendell, who serves in the NE Region as Exec. Minister of Park Avenue Christian Church in New York City, joins Rev. Terri to…
Read more >
Join Rev. Terri to #Pray4Refugees
September 10, 2018URGE YOUR LEADERS TO RESETTLE AT LEAST 75,000 REFUGEES IN FY2019! Please join our Disciples General Minister & President, Rev. Terri Hord Owens, as…
Read more >
2020 Census Counts
July 12, 2018If you oppose a Citizenship Question being added to the US Census, you may make your comment heard by going here ON OR BEFORE AUGUST 7TH!…
Read more >
Families Belong Together
July 6, 2018Our Disciples RIM Director helped lead prayers at the Sojourners’ Keep Families Together prayer vigil at the U.S. Capitol on June 30, saying, “God, in…
Read more >
Saguaro Christian Church Holds Daily Prayer Vigil for Families
July 3, 2018Saguaro Christian Church in Tucson, AZ. recently began holding daily prayer vigils in support of separated children and families. See and join them in prayer…
Read more >
All Rights for All, Without Borders
June 29, 2018RIM Director, Rev. Dr. Sharon Stanley-Rea, shares reasons faith partners are against family separation and detention, during The National Press Club launch on June 25…
Read more >
Join THIS Saturday’s National Day of Action
June 28, 2018June 30th will be a National Day of Action to End Family Separation & Detention with events at the White House and 650 Locations Around…
Read more >
Children, Clergy protest ICE in Capitol with blankets and cages
June 22, 2018Please see here a video of Disciples—including RIM Director, Capitol Area Regional Minister, and other Disciples clergy—assisting children, adults, and faith leaders in yesterday’s action…
Read more >
Family Separations: A Word to the Church
June 20, 2018You are invited to read the “Family Separations: A Word to the Church” and consider signing on in support. We also strongly encourage Disciples to…
Read more >
Faith and Human Rights Partners in the “Value Our Families” Coalition Raise Concerns About Anti-Immigrant Bills
June 13, 2018Washington, D.C., June 13, 2018 — Speaker Paul Ryan has promised his caucus they will vote on at least two anti-immigrant bills next week, as…
Read more >
Faith Leaders Statement on Family Separations
June 7, 2018The Rev. Teresa Hord Owens, General Minister and President of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) along with other faith leaders released a statement today…
Read more >
Five Ways to Help Migrant Dads on Father’s Day
June 7, 2018See here for ways you can learn about and help migrant dads who are in detention, are farmworkers, have DACA and TPS, hold H1B Visas,…
Read more >
National Day of Action for Children
May 31, 2018Friday, June 1, please join with faith and human rights partners around the country for a National Day of Action for Children to stop family…
Read more >
Festival Clergy Hit the Hill to Protect Children!
May 25, 2018Some 45 plus clergy participated in the Festival of Homiletics 2018, in Washington, D.C., on May 23. Organizers trained and organized the participation of conference…
Read more >
Disciples Respond to Anti-Immigrant Comments from President and White House Chief of Staff
May 23, 2018In recent days, deeply offensive rhetoric has again been issued against immigrant communities by President Trump and White House Chief of Staff John Kelly. Disciples…
Read more >
Family Belongs Together
May 21, 2018RIM Director joins with faith partners in Baltimore to assist Honduran woman in avoiding detention. Marta Rodriguez walked out the front door of the Baltimore…
Read more >
Disciples GMP on a National Mother’s Day Press Call
May 9, 2018The Rev. Terri Hord Owens, General Minister and President of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in the United States and Canada, spoke on a…
Read more >
GMP Responds to Session’s Comments at Border
May 8, 2018“The comments by Attorney General Sessions at the border yesterday, which conflated the actions of Central American parents–who are openly presenting themselves to seek safety…
Read more >
Month of Ramadan
May 7, 2018Month of Ramadan resource provides ways that congregations can link with Muslim communities in their areas to engage in Interfaith Iftars. Click here for devotion,…
Read more >
Pentecost People Called to be Advocates
May 7, 2018This Pentecost resource connects the giving of the Advocate spirit with immigrant stories and our calling to serve as an advocate to support families at…
Read more >
This Mother’s Day, Honor Immigrant Mothers
May 7, 2018More immigrant Moms than ever are now in detention & separated from their families. As we gratefully celebrate all MOTHERS, this year we pay special…
Read more >
Background Handout Resource on TPS
May 1, 2018Temporary Protected Status: A Faithful Response to Humanitarian Crises What is TPS (Temporary Protected Status)? Temporary Protected Status, or TPS, is a life-saving immigration program…
Read more >
Refugee Asks Update
May 1, 2018URGE CONGRESS: Ensure the U.S. Resettles at Least 45,000 Refugees in FY2018! Call your senators and representatives today! Host a #WhereRtheRefugees Public Witness Event Plan…
Read more >
More than 600 Interfaith Leaders and Organizations Fight Together for Honduran TPS Holders
April 30, 2018In a letter delivered to the administration on April 27, 2018, 122 faith-based organizations and 518 faith leaders from across traditions stand united in calling…
Read more >Stories from People Prohibited by Refugee Bans
April 26, 2018Read these stories of individuals and families from the various countries prohibited to enter the US under recent Muslim/Refugee Bans.
Read more >
Disciples Statement Against End of TPS for Nepalese
April 26, 2018“With timing that has painfully come the very day following the devastating earthquakes in Nepal three years ago, we stand as faith partners together with…
Read more >
Disciples Join Faith Partners in Refugee Foot Washing to Hold Administration Accountable for Record Low Refugee Arrivals
March 29, 2018Washington, D.C. – Faith leaders held a footwashing service in the shadow of the White House this afternoon.The biblical practice of footwashing is part of…
Read more >
Disciples of Christ Respond to Announced End of Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) for Liberians
March 28, 2018“I continue to be deeply disturbed by the random choices that this administration makes in removing TPS and other protected statuses. Last night’s decision to…
Read more >
Liberian “Deferred Enforced Departure” (DED) Resources
March 23, 2018The current designation of “Deferred Enforced Departure” (DED) that is currently protecting nearly 4,000 Liberians in the U.S. is set to expire on MARCH 31st…
Read more >
4 Urgent Ways to Support Refugees Now
March 20, 20181) REFUGEE ARRIVALS TO THE U.S. IN THIS FISCAL YEAR HAVE BEEN STAGGERINGLY LOW! Please help us circulate the below faith leader & faith-based organization…
Read more >
New RIM Resources
March 7, 2018Now Available! Disciples Black Immigrant and Refugee Toolkit! For a compilation of resources to help your congregation build awareness of and assist Black refugees and…
Read more >
Indianapolis Disciples of Christ Clergy Join with Other Faith Leaders in Vigil & Civil Disobedience in Support of Dreamers & Immigrant Families
March 6, 2018Today, seven Disciples affiliated clergy, Rev. Linda McCrae, Rev. Carolyn Higginbotham, Rev. Jim Higginbotham, Rev. Jon Barnes, Rev. Dawn Barnes, Rev. Sandra Gourdet, and Rev….
Read more >
Disciples GMP Urges a Solution for Dreamers Who Remain in Limbo
March 5, 2018On this day when the President proclaimed DACA protections would end unless a Congressional decision was reached, dreamers remain insecure in the absence of a…
Read more >
Ash Wednesday Service with Dreamers
February 14, 2018Faith Leaders Performed Ash Wednesday Service with Dreamers in Front of Senator McConnell’s and Schumer’s Office to Demand Passage of Dream Act Washington, D.C. (February…
Read more >
RIM Lenten Resources
February 12, 2018Nine Immigration Themed Resources for Lent Encouraging Faith Commitments in Solidarity with Refugees & Immigrants. Go to 2018 Lenten Devotions.
Read more >
Disciples & Interfaith Toolkit: Top 5 Ways to Take Action NOW in 2018
January 17, 2018On Jan. 8, 2018, DHS terminated TPS for El Salvador, effective Sept. 9, 2019. As communities of faith, we urge the administration to reinstate TPS…
Read more >
Week of Action – Jan. 27 to Feb. 3, 2018
January 17, 2018One Year of Muslim & Refugee Bans: Showing Up Against Discrimination. toolkit and resources
Read more >Clergy, Impacted Immigrants, Faith & Labor Leaders Demand that DHS Extends TPS for 200K Salvadoran Immigrants
January 5, 2018Rev. Sharon Stanley-Rea, was among the participants on a press call January 4, to urge the Department of Homeland Security to extend Temporary Protected Status…
Read more >
Thank You for 2017 & Join Us to Act for Refugees and Immigrants in 2018!
January 2, 2018Thank you for your partnership in acting to support refugees and immigrants in 2017–and join us in ongoing actions for justice in 2018!! Sign up…
Read more >
Epiphany Devotions for Jan. 4-6
January 2, 2018Join in a 3-part Epiphany devotional series and actions in support of Temporary Protected Status populations for Jan. 4-6.
Read more >
Advent Devotions
December 4, 2017“Welcome to the Manger” is the theme for the 2017 Advent Devotions. Available for download on the Refugee & Immigration website. Week one: Angels Week…
Read more >
Who Grows Food for our Feasts?
November 15, 2017These resources provide education and links that help families and congregations build awareness of our dependence upon the gifts and energies of farmworkers; especially as…
Read more >Dreamers Welcome At the Table
November 13, 2017As we prepare soon to gather around tables again and again during the holiday season, Disciples Refugee & Immigration Ministries invites your congregation and members…
Read more >
Haitian TPS Alert
November 10, 2017Dear Disciples Friend, Right now, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is considering whether or not to extend Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitians in…
Read more >
Christian Leaders Arrested for Peaceful Capitol Hill Protest in Support of Dream Act
November 3, 2017Disciples are among Christian leaders and activists who held hands and sang in an unlawful demonstration inside of the Russell Senate office building in Washington,…
Read more >
Praying with Dreamers Week #Faith4Dream Oct. 29 – Nov. 4
October 23, 2017Prepare now to plan Dream Sabbath Events! Check out these resources for ways you can participate.
Read more >Rev. Sharon Stanley-Rea Among DC-Area Clergy to Hold White House Rally to Save TPS
October 17, 2017WASHINGTON, DC — Today, October 17th at 11 a.m., local interfaith clergy will host a rally to call on the Trump administration to preserve Temporary…
Read more >
Reflections from Conference on Migration, Borders & Reception
October 10, 2017The Rev. Sharon Stanley-Rea traveled to Italy to participate in “Living and Witnessing the Border.” An International Conference on Migration, Borders and Reception, September 29…
Read more >Join October 2nd Immigration & Refugee Webinar and participate in Dream Sabbath
September 29, 2017Join the Interfaith Immigration Coalition for this webinar to learn how communities of faith can participate in “Dream Sabbath” events that lift up the stories,…
Read more >RIM Wrap: Sept. 28 Refugee Program
September 28, 2017Please Help Stop the Dismantling of the U.S. Refugee Resettlement Program and Share Your Heart to Welcome Refugees A Refugee Admissions Goal of 45,000 Is…
Read more >Sept. 27 CWS Press Release on Refugee Resettlement Program
September 28, 2017CONGRESSWOMAN SCHAKOWSKY, FAITH LEADERS, AND REFUGEES URGE CONGRESS TO STOP TRUMP FROM SHUTTING THE DOOR ON REFUGEES On morning of the Trump administration’s consultation with…
Read more >Sharon Stanley-Rea on DACA Decision
September 6, 2017Hear from Rev. Sharon Stanley-Rea in an interview with Sojourners on September 5, decision about DACA.
Read more >General Minister and President offers thoughts about DACA
September 6, 2017On Tuesday, Sept. 5, the U.S. administration announced an end to the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program that has protected children brought to…
Read more >Urgent: DACA & TPS Recipients at Great Risk: Ways Disciples Can Help!
August 29, 2017Please sign the faith letter & call your leaders today & tomorrow to urge DACA not to be ended, join our DACA & TPS Emergency…
Read more >“Immigrant Welcoming” Resolution Passes at General Assembly
July 21, 2017On Monday, July 10th, Disciples Refugee & Immigration Ministries’ Director joined with Immigration Legal Counsel, the National Benevolent Association, the Central Pastoral Office office of…
Read more >Webinars on July 10th & 13th
July 6, 2017Join the webinar on July 10th and 13th to help immigrants and learn about sanctuary. July 10 Interfaith Immigration Coalition Webinar “5 Ways We Can…
Read more >General Assembly Alerts
July 6, 2017Go here for Summer Recess Toolkit and Alerts for Refugees, Immigrants, Farmworkers, and TPS Recipients. Summer Action Grassroots Toolkit Disciples: Call to Support Refugees Now!…
Read more >Families Rally in Front of White House to Protest Trump Administration’s Aggressive Tactics to Deport Loved Ones to Cambodia
June 28, 2017RIM’s Director (a board member with Southeast Asian Resource Action Center) was grateful to join this a.m. in speaking at Press Conference outside the White…
Read more >Faith Leaders Stand Against Scotus Ruling on Refugee and Muslim Ban Executive Order
June 27, 2017FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 26, 2017 CONTACT: media@cwsglobal.org | 202.733.5151 FAITH LEADERS STAND AGAINST SCOTUS RULING ON REFUGEE AND MUSLIM BAN EXECUTIVE ORDER Call on…
Read more >Disciples Statement in Response to Supreme Court Ruling re: Refugee and Muslim Bans
June 27, 2017Rev. Dr. Sharon Watkins, General Minister and President, Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and Rev. Dr. Ronald Degges, President, Disciples Home Missions “Disciples are a…
Read more >From Student Visa to Green Card
June 14, 2017From Student Visa to Green Card is now scheduled for Monday, July 10 at 5:00 p.m.— Calling all seminary students! Please join Disciples Immigration Legal…
Read more >CWS Statement on 9th Circuit Court of Appeals Ruling Against President Trump’s Rewritten Refugee Ban
June 12, 2017“The courts have spoken yet again in favor of justice and humanity. As CWS has maintained since January, President Trump’s ill-advised travel ban should never…
Read more >
4th Circuit Federal Appeals Court Upholds Block on Trump’s Travel Ban
May 25, 2017The Disciples RIM Staff celebrates the 4th Circuit Appeals Court ruling in Richmond, Va. on May 25 that upheld a lower court ruling which had…
Read more >
#ToImmigrantsWithLove
May 25, 2017Join the new #ToImmigrantsWithLove letter writing campaign, sponsored by Define American and I Am An Immigrant. Through it, you can write an electronic letter that…
Read more >
New! Refugees Welcome Summer Legislator Postcard!!
May 25, 2017Please deliver to, scan and email, or mail your national, state, and local legislators these postcards that indicate your support for refugees, and share how…
Read more >More Than 400 Faith Leaders & Organizations Nationwide Urge Support for Haitians at Risk for Deportation
May 2, 2017Call on DHS Secretary Kelly to extend Temporary Protected Status for Haiti for another 18 months WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 2, 2017) — CWS and Catholic…
Read more >Stop DHS From Deporting Somalis
April 26, 2017The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has recently apprehended, detained and deported Somali individuals back to their home country. These Somalis are asylum seekers, asylees,…
Read more >Disciples and United Church of Christ Holy Season Statement on Violence in the Middle East and Refugees
April 18, 2017In the beginning of Holy Week, marking the entry of Jesus to Jerusalem, his suffering and his death, we watch with sadness and grief the…
Read more >Disciples Rally 4 Family Justice
April 17, 2017Join us in unity at the start of General Assembly in Indianapolis on Saturday, July 8, 2017, from 3 to 5 p.m., for a Disciples…
Read more >Statement on Violence in the Middle East and Refugees
April 17, 2017Disciples and United Church of Christ Holy Season Statement on Violence in the Middle East and Refugees In the beginning of Holy Week, marking the…
Read more >
