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Church News

Welcome Syrian refugees and be God's spokesman, urges bishop

The message comes from the Church of England's Bishop of Chelmsford, Stephen Cottrell, who is encouraging congregations to make long-term commitments towards efforts to resettle families fleeing the civil war.

Writing in a blog, Bishop Stephen encouraged churches to support local authorities and other agencies by giving financially and offering use of their premises.

He said: "This is not the church saying 'look at us being charitable', but the people of God letting their deeds speak for Him.

www.stephencottrell.org

"Helping to support displaced people into a sustainable, long-term future amidst a strange culture is not for the short term and it is not for the faint-hearted.
 
"It is brilliant if we churches can provide premises, or money, or a friendly welcome: much better if we can commit to long-term, costly partnership with local authorities and charities to go the distance."

Bishop Stephen's words come as new information is published by the Mission and Public Affairs Division of the Archbishops' Council about how congregations are already helping, and what more can be done.

The Bishop of Durham, Rt Rev Paul Butler, co chair of the umbrella body for civil society organisations working with refugees, the National Refugee Welcome Board, said: "Church of England parishes and dioceses have already responded with great generosity to the refugee crisis in Europe through fundraising and practical help here in the UK.

"The Church of England dioceses are well placed to support the work of local authorities and established agencies: not just helping to provide a welcome for refugees as they first arrive, but also ensuring that they receive crucial long term support."

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