Refugee Ministry: Welcoming Christ in the Stranger
The Holy Family were once refugees, seeking safety in a foreign land. Today, we are called to see the face of Christ in the families who arrive in our community seeking refuge and a new beginning. At St. Vincent de Paul, our Refugee Ministry is our faith in action—a direct response to the Gospel's call to "welcome the stranger" and a core expression of our Vincentian identity.
Our mission is to be a beacon of hope, providing not just material support, but also the spiritual and communal embrace of a parish family to those who have lost everything.
Our Threefold Promise: Spirit, Stability, and Friendship
We walk alongside refugee families as they begin to rebuild their lives, offering support in three key areas:
- Nourishing the Soul: We welcome our new parishioners into the full sacramental life of our parish, helping them connect with a priest, prepare for sacraments, and find the profound comfort and strength of their Catholic faith in a new home.
- Rebuilding a Life: We offer a helping hand with the essentials. Our team works to provide crucial assistance with food, clothing, and finding safe shelter—offering a stable foundation upon which families can build their new life with dignity.
- Building Community: Through shared meals, soccer games, and parish events, we build bridges of friendship. We believe the greatest gift we can offer is a true sense of belonging and a community that feels like home.
An Invitation to Be a Sign of Hope
This life-changing ministry is a beautiful expression of who we are as a parish, and we invite you to be a part of it. The need is great, and there are many ways you can help, whether your gift is time, talent, or treasure. You can assist by donating household items, helping a family practice English, offering a ride, or simply being a welcoming friend.
Every act of kindness makes a world of difference. To learn how you can get involved, please contact our ministry coordinator, Sister Joana Baidoo, I.H.M., at refmstvincent@yahoo.com.