Finding the Way Forward
Photo by Reza Madani on Unsplash
James Lynch, CEO
On behalf of the Welcome Churches Team
The United Kingdom has a long tradition of offering safety to those fleeing danger. For generations, refugees and people seeking asylum have found here the possibility of rebuilding their lives with dignity, compassion, and stability. Today, as immigration rules change, this tradition is being tested - but it is far from lost.
Policies may shift suddenly, creating uncertainty for those seeking protection. Yet one calling remains constant: the Church is called to love our neighbours as ourselves. In every season, we have the opportunity to offer welcome, kindness, and belonging.
Understanding the Refugee Journey
Refugees and people seeking asylum face profound challenges. Many arrive carrying loss, trauma, and hope for a safer future. Proposals for temporary protection with frequent reviews, and longer periods before permanent residence, risk prolonging uncertainty and stress for families trying to rebuild.
Churches must stay informed and understand the refugee journey - from crisis to transition, stability, integration, and thriving. Recognising these stages and how policy impacts them helps churches respond.
Our hope is to see refugees and people seeking asylum settle in stability, rebuild their lives with dignity, and discover the possibility of a new beginning. Churches play a vital role in creating spaces of hospitality and belonging. As uncertainty grows, we are called to fill the gaps with even more relational support, practical care, and community.
How Welcome Churches Will Support Churches
In this changing landscape, we will:
strengthen understanding of the refugee journey, so churches can respond confidently to new challenges.
equip churches to offer practical support in moments of transition, and to provide consistent and relational support that will foster stability and sense of belonging.
provide updated resources to help churches to navigate their biblical, social, and practical responsibilities.
Even when the path seems challenging, there is hope. Refugees and people seeking asylum will continue to rebuild their lives. Churches will continue to open their doors. Communities will continue to show generosity. Together, we can ensure people move not only from arrival to safety, but from safety to true belonging.
Policies may change - but the calling of the Church endures. Welcome Churches will walk alongside churches across the UK every step on the way, as we continue to welcome those seeking a new beginning.
At Welcome Churches, we are committed to creating a more inclusive and welcoming community for refugees and people seeking asylum. Your support makes this possible. If you, like us, believe in the power of learning from lived experiences and fostering genuine expertise, consider partnering with us. Your donation helps us continue our work of integration, advocacy, and community-building.
Donate today and be a part of creating lasting change.