An Open Heart on the Border
Since the beginning of the year, more than a hundred refugees have crossed into Manitoba seeking asylum. Fearful of how the new American administration will affect their chances at finding safe haven, they have been walking across the US/Canada border, often for hours through waist-deep snow and freezing temperatures.
CCS student Jordan Basso is in ministry at a three-point United Church pastoral charge near the border, including the town of Emerson. “It has certainly been an interesting and exciting time to be in ministry,” says Jordan.
CCS student Jordan Basso
“Working in a border town, we are the first people that new-comers meet, and I truly hope that we are providing a God-filled welcome to the country.”
Jordan has been working with his congregations at figuring out ways to respond to influx of asylum seekers showing up in Emerson seeking refuge.
“I have learned so much about the importance of this ministry we share in the United Church, and how quickly we come together to support each other in times of need. Above all else, I have learned that opening my heart, and offering everything that God has given me to give is the most important thing I – or any of us – can do for each other in this world.”
People often wonder how they can help? Jordan says that donations can be sent to Welcome Place in Winnipeg, where refugees find themselves after processing at the border.
“Prayers and good vibes are most certainly appreciated!” Jordan adds.
Comments: 10
So proud of Jordan being one of the first people refugees meet when they come to Canada. In troubled times Canada is still a great country filled with awesome people from all over the world.
I don’t necessarily meet the people, but I am grateful to be able to say that people are stepping up to help out in many different ways. It has been very uplifting to receive the many phone calls and emails of support from everyone reaching out to offer their assistance, their time, and their prayers. Thanks everyone!
Thank for sharing this important example of the Good News being shard in this time of gathering shadows Jordan!
Thanks Jordan, the people of St. Andrew’s United, the first responders, RCMP and all of Emerson for welcoming these desperate folk who come in search of hope and new life.
Son, I am glad that you welcome these people with a warm heart, kind word and hand of assistance.
Many do not understand the torment and turmoil many of these people have faced, and they turn a hard heart towards them.
This is not in keeping with the belief of the United Church nor the teachings of Christ.
Thanks folks. I am working on some fundraising ideas with my congregations to try and help out as best we can, and I know that many other people in the UC and outside of it are working very hard to try and offer as much support as possible. It’s hard to say what that support will end up looking like over the next little while, but there are many hands reaching out to help.
Cypress River United Church would like to help. We could bring food, blankets, monetary donations too. You can check us out on the Cypress River United Church face book page. We are so inspired by your work!
Thanks Debra. It sounds like at the moment Jordan is suggesting donations to Welcome Place in Winnipeg.
So good to hear from you Jordan. It is good to have ideas of support to offer to people who want to do something. Please let us know as you work towards new ideas and how we can help. This is the very real act of being the church….
If you can possibly raise enough money to support one of these families you will find it very rewarding, although often difficult and time consuming work. I am part of a group that has been working with a family of four for a year now. We have become like family to them. I have been doing English tutoring and they have amazed me! They are so warm and welcoming and thankful for all we do. We have also formed a bit of a relationship with the local mosque which has been rewarding as well. Keep up the good work!
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