I had less than zero… the church changed all that
Arefeh, forced to leave Iran due to religious persecution, found sanctuary in the welcoming embrace of Reach Derby. Through the church's support, she overcame language barriers, embraced her new community, and discovered belonging.
My name is Arefeh. I'm from Iran, and I was forced to leave my country because I became a Christian. The government was going to arrest me. To save my life and my future I was forced to flee my home country, to leave everything behind.
I thought the UK could be a good, safe place for me to start a new life as a Christian. But at first, it was really hard to settle here: it was a new country with a new language and a new culture. When you flee your home and move to a new country, it feels like you need to start not from zero, but less than zero. You can't speak the language and the culture is completely different.
Finding my church changed all that - once I settled into a local church I made friends and life became much more enjoyable and happy.
The people at Reach Church in Derby made a real effort with me. They gave me a very warm welcome and made real efforts to understand and show appreciation for the culture of my homeland, even using the traditional greeting of ‘Salaam’. They invited me to be a part of all their activities and when I spent time with them, I felt calm and peaceful.
I have come to really feel that here, now, is my home. These people have become more than just friends - they have become my family.
I am looking forward to Christmas with my church family in Derby with great anticipation. We are planning celebrations together with all our different cultures and languages - all together, just like in heaven.
Through the power of the local church, we can make sure that no refugee feels alone. Would you generously give £38 this Christmas to make that a reality for one more family? A welcome is the best gift they could get - it’s where they will start to rebuild their lives.