FOUNDATIONAL PILLARS

Our mission & strategy are built on six foundational pillars.

1. The Glory of God

Above all things, we want to glorify God, in His Son, Jesus Christ, in all that we do and say (2 Corinthians 10:31; Colossians 3:17). Similarly, our faith in Christ is demonstrated by the gospel we proclaim (Rom 1:16) and the deeds we do (Jas 2:14ff). Consequently, we proclaim the gospel of Christ to refugees and immigrants, for we believe that in it alone is reconciliation with God and hope beyond this life. And simultaneously, that the love of Christ may be felt as well as heard, we genuinely meet the needs of refugees and immigrants and strive for . . .

2. Service Excellence

In seeking to meet the practical needs of refugees, Refuge is committed to providing service of the highest caliber. In no way is this service contingent upon spiritual change. Refuge does not believe in a coerced faith. This is best accomplished with a structure that is . . .

3. Decentralized

The locational focus of Refuge’s ministry is not a physical building or center. Instead, ministry takes place in the homes of refugees and volunteers, in church fellowship halls, in centers belonging to other ministries, in public parks, over tea or coffee, or just about anywhere our volunteers meet with refugees! As a result, Refuge is . . .

4. Nimble

Because ministry is undertaken by volunteers in a decentralized manner, Refuge is able to respond quickly, frugally and creatively to both needs and opportunities that arise with tailor-made solutions that utilize the varied gifts and experiences of our volunteers from . . .

5. Local Churches

Biblically, ministry takes place through the church as her members are equipped by those officers God has gifted to her. (Eph. 4:11ff) As such Refuge understands itself to be a facilitator of ministry between churches and their respective members on the one hand, and refugees and immigrants on the other. In this facilitative role Refuge informs, trains, connects, and supports volunteers from partner churches as they minister to refugees and immigrants in programs that are designed to meet practical and spiritual needs in the context of . . .

6. Relationships

Whether it is learning English, finding a grocery, passing a driving test, or healing from past trauma, nothing helps the refugee/immigrant navigate life in his/her new country like a true friend.  Similarly, when persons come to saving faith in Christ, it is often in the context of a relationship with a Christian friend.