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.

And before the end of the year, we expect to welcome another Afghan family: a widow with five children.While the majority of the funding for this family will come from an outside donor, Holy Comforter has committed to providing them the loving care and help they will need as they settle into life in Northern Virginia.

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.)

Can you help? New volunteers are always most welcome! If you feel called to serve on this ministry, please contact: Director of Outreach, Zara Harris; Refugee Ministry Liaison, Norma Williamson; or Rector, The Rev. Jon Strand.