For Afghanistan

Thanks to Bishop Patricia Lull of the Saint Paul Area Synod (ELCA) for sharing this Great Idea. We’ve expanded on her ideas, but will be happy to include other resources, as well; please advise.

Bishop Lull writes:

[As the US began pulling out of Afghanistan], a former military chaplain reached out to me. He is heartsick at the suffering he sees in Afghanistan. He knows, as do I, the deep investment made by the U.S. troops, who served there over the past 20 years, as well as the profound yearning of many civilians for a freer way of life. It is another huge humanitarian crisis, arising before our eyes.

While we may champion different political and diplomatic strategies, as Christians we are called to do several things:

What we may not do as Christians is ignore the needs of neighbors – near and far. O God, strength of those who believe in you, give comfort and clarity of vision to us in this time of need. Open our ears to hear your voice and obey your will; open our hearts that true justice and wisdom may abound; and open our hands that violent resolution of conflict may cease, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen (Prayer from ELW)

In Christ’s service,

Bishop Patricia Lull

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The Sahan Journal‘s Hiba Ansari also compiled How You Can Help Refugees in Minnesota Right Now.

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The Minnesota Council of Churches invites your help by:

  • Donating money for families’ housing and food needs here.
  • Donating household items to help furnish welcoming residences here.
  • Volunteer to set up apartments, transport individuals to key appointments, or co-sponsor a family, whether from Afghanistan or elsewhere, by contacting  Kathryn at rsvolunteers@mnchurches.org.

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You can find additional resources for supporting immigrant and refugee peoples in our Congregational Life: Social Justice – Immigration & Refugees lib guide.