Responding to Protests in our Community

As Christians, we have a unique role to play in standing up for those who are oppressed, vulnerable and hurting in our communities.  As we respond to protests against people seeking asylum being accommodated in local communities, we are called to be peacemakers and to show compassion and care to those who are hurting. In this short article, we will explore some ways that churches and Christians can respond in a compassionate and constructive manner.

Pray for Peace

As Christians, we are called to be peacemakers. In situations where emotions are running high, it can be easy to get caught up in the tension and anger. However, we must remember our unique role in bringing peace and healing to our communities. Take time to pray for peace and for the safety of all those involved in the protests. Pray for wisdom and discernment for leaders and law enforcement as they work to maintain order and protect both the people seeking asylum and everyone in the wider community.

A prayer of blessing you can use in your church and community during or after protests

Creator God, in whose image all humans have been made,

For those who fear: we pray for comfort;

For those with questions: we pray for truth;

For those in authority: we pray for wisdom;

For those who feel alone: we pray for welcome;

For the community of [insert name] we pray for peace.

Be a Presence of Peace

As churches, we have a unique opportunity to be a presence of peace in the midst of protests. Our goal is not to escalate tensions, but to be a calming influence in the community. This may require reaching out to community leaders or attending public meetings to get a sense of what is happening. Engage in conversations with people who are affected by the protest, and try to understand their experiences and concerns. This can help us to approach the situation with empathy and good understanding.

Reach Out to Those in Need

Protests can be a difficult time for those who are already struggling within the asylum system. If your church already knows people accommodated in the hotels where protests have taken place, consider reaching out to individuals to express your solidarity with them and your support and welcome to them. If you have access to a hotel where the protests have taken place, representatives from your church could visit and express care and concern for those accommodated there and reassurances that they are welcome and that the church is praying for them. Followers of Jesus who are accommodated in the hotels may already be part of your church community and will need your reassurance that you are standing with them and praying for them.  

Pray and Advocate for Change

Finally, as Christians, we are called to be advocates for justice and equality. Consider how your church can be involved in praying and advocating for justice within the asylum system and helping to inform those around us of why people seek asylum and the challenges they face. Let’s earnestly pray that our asylum system would better reflect the values of God’s kingdom and that people are treated with understanding and dignity.  

Join in with proactively supporting people seeking asylum

If your church is not already involved in supporting and welcoming refugees and people seeking asylum, please get in touch with us to find out how we can help you get started and what training and support we can offer you.