From Cold Walls to Warm Arms
Ashkan’s Story from his time on the Bibby Stockholm
“Our arrival at Weymouth Baptist Church felt like stepping out of a cold, locked prison, into the arms of a loving family. Coming from the harsh, heavily guarded environment of the Bibby Stockholm Barge, which felt more like Alcatraz than a safe space, our hearts were heavy, wounded, and tired. But the moment we walked into Weymouth Baptist Church, it was as if the warmth of a thousand suns embraced us. The people did not just welcome us, they received us, as if we had come home after a long, painful journey.
One of my most cherished memories is from just a few nights after our arrival, when we were invited to the home of Mr Dave. The kindness in his eyes, the comfort of his hospitality, and the delicious hot soup in the wintry weather created a sense of belonging we had not felt in an exceptionally long time.
Later, at the other church we were referred to, the welcome was kind and caring, but nothing could quite match the tenderness we experienced in Weymouth. Still, it was part of a larger picture of hope and healing. I cannot forget the role the local charities played in our journey. To me, they were not just organisations; they were like angels sent by God to watch over us in our time of need. And among them, the brightest, warmest, and most selfless was Heather from the Portland Global Friendship Group. She radiated genuine compassion and care, like a sacred light in our darkest moments. Her presence, much like Mr Dave’s, was a reminder that even after the deepest pain, love still lives.”
- Ashkan,
Sanctuary seeker who had stayed on the Bibby Stockholm
Want to see how else Weymouth Baptist Church and the local community came together to welcome those staying on the Bibby Stockholm? Read the full story here.