Refugee Ministry

As Christians, we are called to engage in God’s mission of reconciliation. Holy Comforter’s Refugee Ministry seeks to serve newly displaced people from around the world.

Background: In August 2021, tens of thousands of Afghans arrived in America. Many were traumatized, with no personal connections and few material goods. The people of Holy Comforter embraced Jesus’ call to welcome the stranger by reaching out to support two Afghan families and, later, an unaccompanied youth. Thanks to donations of time, items, and funds, we have fully or partially furnished three homes, funded rent, provided cars, and assisted in a myriad of other ways. We have been blessed to get to know these individuals through accompanying them on medical and dental appointments, helping with job hunting and legal issues, sharing meals, discussing law, politics, culture, and religion, and rejoicing in the birth of a child. Their young children have been introduced to American education at Holy Comforter Preschool, and are now attending Fairfax Public Schools.

Since these individuals have reached financial independence, we were able to respond when a Venezuelan family with a young daughter needed a place to live in August 2023. Thanks to financial and in-person help from parishioners, we have been able to assist them in a number of ways, from temporary housing to dental appointments to help with immigration issues.

Most recently, on February 9, 2024, after much anticipation, we welcomed another Afghan family: a widow with 5 children ages 10–19. While the majority of the funding for this family has come from an outside donor, Holy Comforter is committed to providing the help and guidance they need as they settle into life in Northern Virginia. We are especially grateful for the gift of a home at reduced rent, “Nicholas House” where this family is now settled. Currently, after more than 3 years out of school, 4 out of 5 of the children are enrolled and thriving at Vienna Elementary and Madison High Schools.

Funding: This ministry does not have an established budget. Funds are needed for us to move forward. Prayerfully consider a contribution to this ministry by check or online HERE. (Select “Refugee Ministry” from the Fund menu.)

Interest in Helping? New volunteers are always most welcome. It takes a village! If you feel called to serve in this ministry or are simply interested in learning more about it, please contact: Director of Outreach, Zara Harris; Refugee Ministry Liaison, Norma Williamson; or Rector, The Rev. Jon Strand.

Current Needs

Tutors

Mentors

English as a second language

Spanish speakers

Those interested in regularly reading to an 8-year-old Venezuelan learning English

Help with administration of our team of over 20 volunteers