Thanks to the generosity of the hundreds who contributed and participated in a United Thank Offering challenge during Advent, nearly $90,000 will be dedicated to the work of welcoming refugees coming to the United States.

In December 2015, the United Thank Offering issued a challenge of $30,000 to assist Episcopal Migration Ministries. Named  Advent: Journey from Gratitude to Hope,   $59,054.20 was generously donated to the challenge.  As a result, a total of $89,054.20 will be earmarked for the work of Episcopal Migration Ministries.

“This gift will impact the lives of refugees in communities across the United States,” noted a joint statement by Dr. Sandra K. Squires, President, United Thank Offering Board; the Rev. Heather L. Melton, Missioner for the United Thank Offering; Deborah Stein, Director, Episcopal Migration Ministries; and Lacy Broemel, Episcopal Public Policy Network (EPPN). “This is just the beginning.  The needs are great, but our commitment, joy, and gratitude is greater.

They concluded, “Thank you for walking with us in this journey and supporting refugees as they come to the United States to rebuild their lives, contribute to their communities, and live in safety.”

Known worldwide as UTO, the United Thank Offering grants are awarded for projects that address human needs and help alleviate poverty, both domestically and internationally in The Episcopal Church.

Episcopal Migration Ministries is the refugee resettlement program of The Episcopal Church. Working in partnership with 30 local resettlement offices and a host of diocesan and parish partners, volunteers, and community supporters, each year Episcopal Migration Ministries resettles more than 5,000 men, women, and children fleeing violence, persecution, and conflict. Through this ministry of welcome, refugees’ journeys of fear and flight are over, and their journeys of hope and new life begin.  

In addition to the provision of services, The Episcopal Church engages the ministry of public policy advocacy through a grassroots network of Episcopalians called the Episcopal Public Policy Network (EPPN). Members of the EPPN advocate to their elected officials on issues of justice and peace. Advocating for fair policies that lift up the most vulnerable, such as refugees and immigrants, is a priority for the EPPN.

More information

For more information contact Melton.