Global Refuge (Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Services)

Global Refuge

Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service
New name, same mission. Welcoming newcomers since 1939.
www.globalrefuge.org

Dear Partners in Ministry,

Grace and peace to you this synod assembly season. As you may know, Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service has embraced a new name: Global Refuge. Grounded in Psalm 46:1, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble,” we hope to enter our next 85 years with openness, building a bigger table to meet a growing need. Global Refuge was forged in faith. Our Lutheran heritage has always shaped our work of welcome and will continue to do so in years to come.

With the support of partners and Lutheran communities like yours, in 2023 we were able to…

• Help 17,000+ children reunify with their families or find loving foster homes
• Welcome 11,200+ refugees from countries across the world
• Assist 11,700+ people seeking safety from Central America and beyond

In a political season rife with anti-immigrant rhetoric and messages that villainize newcomers, we have a unique opportunity to change this narrative and refocus on all the gifts newcomers bring to community. We invite you to join us in this work!

• Share about Global Refuge in your church or invite our team to join you.
• Include Global Refuge bulletin inserts about our work in your bulletin.
• Start a Circle of Welcome to support newcomers in your community.
• Pack Fresh Change bags, a partnership with Border Servant Corps, to welcome our neighbors at the border with care and dignity.
• Sign up for our monthly e-newsletters for faith leaders and explore a webpage specifically for congregations which has the latest faith community resources.

Thank you for your continued support. The many ways Lutheran communities embody Jesus’ ministry through the work of welcome is truly inspiring.

Go in peace. Welcome the stranger.

Deacon Sarah Kretschmann | Congregational Engagement Specialist
outreach@globalrefuge.org