There is still time to register for the free World Refugee Day webinar on June 20 at 7 pm Eastern.

Sponsored by the Episcopal Migration Ministries and Episcopal Public Policy Network, the one-hour seminar will present and discuss the global refugee crisis, the contributions refugees bring to our communities, and ways that Episcopalians can support refugee resettlement.  Register here  

In 2000, the United Nations named June 20 as World Refugee Day, deeming it an annual opportunity to celebrate the resilience and success of the former refugees who bless our communities with their wisdom and irrepressible spirit and to examine the root causes of violence and persecution that force people to flee at an alarming rate.

This year, The Episcopal Church, in partnership with congregations, volunteers and our network of 30 local affiliate offices in 26 states will welcome more than 5,000 refugees to the United States from 32 countries, from places like the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burma, Afghanistan, and Syria.

Ways to participate

• Find a local World Refugee Day event on our interactive events map here. 
• Host a #RefugeesWelcome dinner to support new Americans living in your community; ideas are here. 
• Lift up prayers for refugees in your congregation. Worship materials are here.
• Start a conversation in your congregation and community about how you can be involved in this life-saving work. World Refugee Day bulletin insert and planning materials found here:.
• Volunteer for this life-saving ministry through one of our local partners. The affiliate network map is here.
• Join the Episcopal Public Policy Network to learn more about how you can work with local and elected leaders to support refugees; info here. 

For more information, contact Allison Duvall, Manager for Church Relations and Engagement, 212-716-6027.

Prayer for World Refugee Day

Written by #ShareTheJourney pilgrim Alyssa Stebbing, Outreach Ministry Director and Contemporary Music Director at Trinity Episcopal Church, The Woodlands, Texas:

Gracious God, we pray for our newest neighbors, that those families who have sought refuge from the ravages of war and violence may find not only shelter and sustenance, but also a loving and supportive community in which to create a new beginning with dignity. Amen.