On this episode, we speak with Rev. Chris McNabb, the Program Officer for Recruitment & Engagement of Neighbor to Neighbor. We explore the experience, evolution, and expansion of this program since its inception around August 2021, as well as some continued challenges around funding, and the call to respond to issues of forced-displacement as a result of environmental changes and gender identity. Fr. Chris McNabb is an Episcopal Priest who has been called to the work as Program Officer for Recruitment & Engagement of Neighbor to Neighbor, a program of Episcopal Migration Ministries. He graduated from Princeton Theological Seminary with a Masters in Divinity, and earned his diploma in Anglican Studies from The General Theological Seminary. Prior to his role with EMM, Fr. McNabb served as the Curate for "Caritas, Justice, and Healing" at Trinity Church in Princeton, NJ and was the Priest in Charge of St. Francis Episcopal Church, on the south shore of Long Island. When not working, Chris enjoys hiking, camping, and hanging out with his dog Lucky. Neighbor to Neighbor trains community groups to welcome newcomers into their communities. You can play a critical role in this ministry. To learn how you can be a community sponsor, visit https://dfms.formstack.com/forms/initial_congregation_interest_form Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram where we are @emmrefugees. To stay up to date on all new episodes, make sure to follow us wherever you get your podcasts on Spotify, iTunes, stitcher, Google play, or SoundCloud. To support the ministry of welcome, make a gift to Episcopal Migration Ministries. With your help, we will continue to welcome and resettle refugees in communities across the country, offer support to asylum seekers, and create beloved community for all of our immigrant siblings. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com

On this episode of HomeTown, we speak with members of Neighbor to Neighbor's own St. John's Norwood Sponsor Circle team, doing the critical work of welcome with individuals arriving in their communities. We speak with the Rev. Anne Derse, Deacon and St. John’s Minister for Community Engagement, as well as St. John's parishioners Melanie Folstad and Rick McCumber, husband and wife team-leads for the St. John's Norwood Neighbor to Neighbor Sponsor Circle team. Our Neighbor to Neighbor program trains community groups to welcome newcomers into their communities. You can play a critical role. To learn how you can be a community sponsor, visit https://dfms.formstack.com/forms/initial_congregation_interest_form Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram where we are @emmrefugees. To stay up to date on all new episodes, make sure to follow us wherever you get your podcasts on Spotify, iTunes, stitcher, Google play, or SoundCloud. To support the ministry of welcome, make a gift to Episcopal Migration Ministries. With your help, we will continue to welcome and resettle refugees in communities across the country, offer support to asylum seekers, and create beloved community for all of our immigrant siblings. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com

In this episode of HomeTown, we speak with members of Neighbor to Neighbor's own Tri-Parish Sponsor Circle team. This Sponsor Circle consists of three Episcopal parishes who have teamed up together with EMM's Neighbor to Neighbor program to do the critical work of welcome with individuals arriving in their communities. I speak with Embry Howell and Rev. Julianne Buenting from All Souls Episcopal Church in Washington D.C., Jess Sanchez and Lacy Broemel from St. John's Episcopal Church in Lafayette Square, Washington D.C., and Dana Martin from St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Arlington, VA about their process, experience, and call to this critical work of welcome. Our Neighbor to Neighbor program is an official Sponsor Circle Umbrella under the Sponsor Circle Program for Afghans! **We are in urgent need of sponsor circles to support the move of Afghan newcomers into welcoming communities. You can play a critical role. To learn how you can be a community sponsor, visit https://dfms.formstack.com/forms/initial_congregation_interest_form Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram where we are @emmrefugees. To stay up to date on all new episodes, make sure to follow us wherever you get your podcasts on Spotify, iTunes, Stitcher, Google Play, or SoundCloud. To support the ministry of welcome, you can make a gift to Episcopal Migration Ministries. With your help, we will continue to welcome and resettle refugees in communities across the country, offer support to asylum seekers, and create beloved community for all of our immigrant siblings. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com

On this episode of HomeTown, we are joined by some of our very own Episcopal Migration Ministries team members, Allison Duvall and Zoë Bayer, who will help us break down the different types of sponsorship and how community groups can get involved. Many efforts to welcome our newest neighbors are happening in the form of co-sponsorship, community sponsorship, and Sponsor Circles-- but as folks who are called to this work, we want to know: what exactly is the difference between them all? Join us for this illuminating breakdown of sponsorship. Our Neighbor to Neighbor program is an official Sponsor Circle Umbrella under the Sponsor Circle Program for Afghans! **We are in urgent need of sponsor circles to support the move of Afghan newcomers into welcoming communities. You can play a critical role. To learn how you can be a community sponsor, visit https://dfms.formstack.com/forms/initial_congregation_interest_form Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram where we are @emmrefugees. To stay up to date on all new episodes, make sure to follow us wherever you get your podcasts on Spotify, iTunes, Stitcher, Google Play, or SoundCloud. To support the ministry of welcome, you can make a gift to Episcopal Migration Ministries. With your help, we will continue to welcome and resettle refugees in communities across the country, offer support to asylum seekers, and create beloved community for all of our immigrant siblings. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com

In this episode recorded on International Women's Day, we spoke with some special guests from Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston about their Women Refugee Art Program (WRAP), and the Women's Empowerment Group (WEG). We spoke with Narelle Sissons, a visual artist, theatre designer, professor, and art instructor who teaches and empowers the women of WRAP to use art concepts to express themselves and their stories. We also spoke with Chloe Krane, a former TV producer for Associated Press, Al Jazeera, and BBC, who is now the Interfaith Ministries' Women’s Empowerment Liaison and leader of the Women's Empowerment Group, and Sucre Woodley, Director of Marketing & Communications at Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston. We explore the complex, and often traumatic journeys of rebuilding one's life in a new place, and how creating safe places and brave spaces for expression and education are crucial, liberating opportunities for women refugees, asylees, and parolees as they go through resettlement processes. Our Neighbor to Neighbor program is an official Sponsor Circle Umbrella under the Sponsor Circle Program for Afghans! **We are in urgent need of sponsor circles to support the move of Afghan newcomers into welcoming communities. You can play a critical role. To learn how you can be a community sponsor, visit https://dfms.formstack.com/forms/initial_congregation_interest_form Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram where we are @emmrefugees. To stay up to date on all new episodes, make sure to follow us wherever you get your podcasts on Spotify, iTunes, stitcher, Google play, or SoundCloud. To support the ministry of welcome, make a gift to Episcopal Migration Ministries. With your help, we will continue to welcome and resettle refugees in communities across the country, offer support to asylum seekers, and create beloved community for all of our immigrant siblings. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com

Today's episode features a conversation with with some members of the St. Matthew's & St. Andrews Pentecost Partnership Committee, a joint effort between two parishes in Evanston, IL, who are working with RefugeeOne to do the critical work of welcome within their community. We speak with Cynthia Doucet, Marta Humphreys, & the Rev. Terri J. Morrisey, who are parishioners & clergy of the two churches in Evanston, along with Kelli Wendt, the Community Engagement Coordinator at RefugeeOne. This episode highlights what it looks like for organizations to get involved in this critical work of "welcoming all in community, joyfully doing God's work in the world." episcopalmigrationministries.org/neighbortoneighbor Our Neighbor to Neighbor program is an official Sponsor Circle Umbrella under the Sponsor Circle Program for Afghans! **We are in urgent need of sponsor circles to support the move of Afghan newcomers off of bases and into welcoming communities in the coming weeks. You can play a critical role. To learn how you can be a community sponsor, visit https://dfms.formstack.com/forms/initial_congregation_interest_form. Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram where we are @emmrefugees. To stay up to date on all new episodes, make sure to follow us wherever you get your podcasts on Spotify, iTunes, stitcher, Google Play, or SoundCloud. To continue to support the ministry of welcome, you can make a gift to Episcopal Migration Ministries. With your help, we will continue to welcome and resettle refugees in communities across the country, offer support to asylum seekers, and create beloved community for all of our immigrant siblings. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com

Today's episode features a conversation with Fr. Chris McNabb, the Program Manager of EMM's new Neighbor to Neighbor program initiative, to discuss the beginnings of this program, and also how it brings communities together in a ministry of welcome, inviting faith communities to join together in community sponsorship to welcome our newest neighbors. episcopalmigrationministries.org/neighbortoneighbor Our Neighbor to Neighbor program is now an official Sponsor Circle Umbrella under the Sponsor Circle Program for Afghans! **We are in urgent need of sponsor circles to support the move of Afghan newcomers off of bases and into welcoming communities in the coming weeks. You can play a critical role. To learn how you can be a community sponsor, visit https://dfms.formstack.com/forms/initial_congregation_interest_form Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram where we are @emmrefugees. To stay up to date on all new episodes, make sure to follow us wherever you get your podcasts on Spotify, iTunes, stitcher, Google play, or SoundCloud. To continue to support the ministry of welcome, you can make a gift to Episcopal Migration Ministries. With your help, we will continue to welcome and resettle refugees in communities across the country, offer support to asylum seekers, and create beloved community for all of our immigrant siblings. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com

Today's episode features a recording from the Thursday, Jan. 20th webinar hosted by EMM called: "Welcoming Afghans: EMM's Neighbor to Neighbor Program", where we join with Fr. Chris McNabb, Program Manager of our new Neighbor to Neighbor program, along with Beth Frank, program director of the Community Sponsorship Hub's Sponsor Circle Program for Afghans, and Brian Dyck, national migration and resettlement program director, from the Mennonite Central Committee Canada to discuss this monumental joining of efforts to create communities of welcome through sponsorship for our newest Afghan neighbors, and to introduce EMM's new Neighbor to Neighbor initiative. episcopalmigrationministries.org/neighbortoneighbor Our Neighbor to Neighbor program is now an official Sponsor Circle Umbrella under the Sponsor Circle Program for Afghans! **We are in urgent need of sponsor circles to support the move of Afghan newcomers off of bases and into welcoming communities in the coming weeks. You can play a critical role. To learn how you can be a community sponsor, visit https://dfms.formstack.com/forms/initial_congregation_interest_form Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram where we are @emmrefugees. To stay up to date on all new episodes, make sure to follow us wherever you get your podcasts on Spotify, iTunes, stitcher, Google play, or SoundCloud. To continue to support the ministry of welcome, you can make a gift to Episcopal Migration Ministries. With your help, we will continue to welcome and resettle refugees in communities across the country, offer support to asylum seekers, and create beloved community for all of our immigrant siblings. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com

Join us this spring and summer for Season 6 of Hometown, where we zoom in on EMM's newest ministry of welcome program, called Neighbor to Neighbor. We'll hear the voices who are directly involved in this emerging ministry of welcome, such as our Neighbor to Neighbor Missioner, Fr. Chris McNabb, as well as congregations who are stepping up and doing this vital ministry. We will also feature the voices of individuals positively impacted by this new, monumental program, and voices of leaders who are on the ground spearheading this ecumenical initiative. To learn how you can get involved in community sponsorship, visit: https://dfms.formstack.com/forms/initial_congregation_interest_form Be sure to follow us on FB, twitter, and Instagram where we are @emmrefugees. To stay up to date on all new episodes, make sure to follow us wherever you get your podcasts on Spotify, iTunes, stitcher, Google play, or SoundCloud. To continue to support the ministry of welcome, you can make a gift to Episcopal Migration Ministries. With your help, we will continue to welcome and resettle refugees in communities across the country, offer support to asylum seekers, and create beloved community for all of our immigrant siblings. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.or/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com

Today’s episode features a recording from the June 10 panel discussion hosted by EMM. The discussion highlighted the work to rebuild the refugee resettlement program, perspectives from different faith traditions and practitioners, and the role of community support in providing welcome and integration to newly arrived refugees. The 90-minute event included a moderated panel discussion, followed by a question and answer session, with the following guests: - The Most Rev. Michael B. Curry, Presiding Bishop of The Episcopal Church - Demetrio Alvero , Director of Operations for Episcopal Migration Ministries - Dr. Heval Kelli, Cardiologist, co-founder and president of the Kurdish American Medical Association, and former refugee - Larry Bartlett, Director of the Office of Refugee Admissions, Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration, U.S. Department of State Follow us on FB, Twitter, and Instagram where we are emmrefugees. Join in the ministry of welcome by making a gift to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all gifts are used to support and grow our work resettling refugees, supporting asylum seekers, and creating welcoming communities for all of our immigrant siblings. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com

Today's episode features a recording of the June 1 webinar hosted by Episcopal Migration Ministries and The Episcopal Church's Office of Government Relations - Welcoming our Newest Neighbors: How Americans and the Episcopal Church Integrate Refugees into Their Communities. The event featured the following experts: • Jessica Darrow, Assistant Instructional Professor, the Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice, University of Chicago • Drocella Mugorewera, Executive Director of Bridge Refugee Services • Rachel Peric, Executive Director, Welcoming America Follow us on FB, Twitter, and Instagram where we are emmrefugees. Join in the ministry of welcome by making a gift to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all gifts are used to support and grow our work resettling refugees, supporting asylum seekers, and creating welcoming communities for all of our immigrant siblings. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com

Today's episode features the recording of Reflecting on The Geneva Convention: The State of Global Refugee Trends and Refugee Policy Today, a webinar from Episcopal Migration Ministries and The Episcopal Church’s Office of Government Relations. In addition to the Church’s migration ministry and policy staff, the event featured the following experts: • David FitzGerald, Professor, Gildred Chair in U.S.-Mexican Relations, and Co-Director, Center for Comparative Immigration Studies, UCSD • Susan Fratzke, Senior Policy Analyst, Migration Policy Institute • Jana Mason, Senior External Relations Advisor, UNHCR ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries. Follow us on FB, Twitter, and Instagram where we are emmrefugees. Join in the ministry of welcome by making a gift to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all gifts are used to support and grow our work resettling refugees, supporting asylum seekers, and creating welcoming communities for all of our immigrant siblings. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com

Today’s reflection comes from Presiding Bishop Michael Curry, the 27th and current presiding bishop and primate of The Episcopal Church. Follow us on FB, Twitter, and Instagram where we are emmrefugees. In this season of giving we invite you to make a gift to support the refugee and immigration ministries of The Episcopal Church through the work of Episcopal Migration Ministries.. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com

Today’s episode features a reflection from Ana Reza, Bridge Chaplain at the Diocese of the Rio Grande, living in El Paso, Tx and working in Juarez, Mx. Ana works within one of the asylum shelters in Juarez, MX. Ana provides pastoral care and seeks and trains volunteers to go to the shelters and do a variety of activities from teaching to prayer. During COVID she is involved with EMM in building solidarity with other members of the community working along the border and with asylum seekers throughout the USA. Follow us on FB, Twitter, and Instagram where we are emmrefugees. In this season of giving we invite you to make a gift to support the refugee and immigration ministries of The Episcopal Church through the work of Episcopal Migration Ministries. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com

Today’s episode is part of EMM’s weekly Advent reflections from our supporters and friends. Our reflection author is Thomas Diaz, a 5th generation Angeleno. Thomas is from the diocese of Los Angeles and his home parish is All Saints Church, Pasadena. Follow us on FB, Twitter, and Instagram where we are emmrefugees. In this season of giving we invite you to make a gift to support the refugee and immigration ministries of The Episcopal Church through the work of Episcopal Migration Ministries.. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com

Our reflection author The Rev. Anna Page is a priest in the Episcopal Church and Captain in the United States Army. She is canonically resident in the Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts but serves as the Curate at St. Michael's Episcopal Church in Raleigh, NC. When not on Zoom, Anna enjoys lifting heavy things, tending to her plants, and renovating her camper van. Join us on December 13 from 7-8PM Eastern for a virtual Advent Vigil, available by Zoom webinar or Facebook live. Register for the Zoom webinar at bit.ly/emmvigil. Follow us on FB, Twitter, and Instagram where we are emmrefugees. In this season of giving we invite you to make a gift to support the refugee and immigration ministries of The Episcopal Church through the work of Episcopal Migration Ministries.. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com

Today’s episode is the first in a series of weekly Advent reflections from EMM supporters and friends. Our reflection author Rushad Thomas is a policy advisor in The Episcopal Church’s Washington, D.C.-based Office of Government Relations. We invite you to join us each week during Advent for reflection and prayer. Reflections are also available on the EMM website blog - www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog. Join us on December 13 from 7-8PM Eastern for a virtual Advent Vigil, available by Zoom webinar or Facebook live. Register for the Zoom webinar at bit.ly/emmvigil. Follow us on FB, Twitter, and Instagram where we are emmrefugees. In this season of giving we invite you to make a gift to support the refugee and immigration ministries of The Episcopal Church through the work of Episcopal Migration Ministries.. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. We also invite you to get your very own EMM swag at bit.ly/weareemm. We have a variety of EMM branded shirts to help you proclaim loudly that you welcome our newest neighbors. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com

Today’s episode features an interview with Ben, a pastor, evangelist and asylee from Nigeria. He lives in the Southeast United States and was granted asylum in 2020. We also speak with the Reverend Leeann Culbreath, who has accompanied individuals and families impacted by immigrant detention in South Georgia, most often at the Irwin County Detention Center in Ccilla, Georgia. In 2017, she helped found South Georgia Immigrant Support Network, which they referenced in today's interview. South Georgia Immigrant Support Network is a humanitarian nonprofit that provides a hospitality house, visitation, pen pal, post-release, and advocacy programs. Leeann frequently travels around the Diocese of Georgia teaching and preaching about immigrant detention and accompaniment ministry. And in 2020, she became one of our volunteer co facilitators for EMM's detention ministry network. Join us on December 13, from 7 to 8pm. Eastern for a virtual Advent vigil and it will be available by Zoom webinar and also Facebook Live we invite you to register for the zoom webinar at bit.ly/EMMvigil. Follow EMM on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram where we are @EMMrefugees. In the season of giving, we invite you to make a gift to support the refugee and immigration ministries of the Episcopal Church through the work of Episcopal Migration Ministries. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text Hometown to 91999. We also want to invite you to get your very own EMM swag at bit.ly/weareemm. We have a variety of EMM branded shirts to help you proclaim loudly that you welcome our newest neighbors. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com.

Today’s episode features the recording of Walking with Asylum Seekers: Ministry Opportunities for Congregations, the first of a three-part virtual training series offered in partnership with The Evangelical Lutheran Church of America’s AMMPARO program and Lutheran Family Services of the Rocky Mountains. The three 90-minute virtual events are for congregations interested in supporting and walking alongside asylum seekers. We provide advocacy updates, resources for group discernment, ministry models, and important considerations when engaging in ministry with asylum seekers. Visit bit.ly/asylumministrytraining to register for one or both of the virtual sponsorship trainings. Follow us on FB, Twitter, and Instagram where we are emmrefugees. Join in the ministry of welcome by making a gift to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all gifts are used to support and grow our work resettling refugees, supporting asylum seekers, and creating welcoming communities for all of our immigrant siblings. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com

Today’s episode features our interview with The Rev. Mike Wallens, co-chair of the Rio Grande Borderland Ministries (RGBM) for the Diocese of the Rio Grande, and Nellie Fagen, project coordinator for Rio Grande Borderland Ministries (RGBM) through Blueprint. Mike Wallens is the Vicar of an Episcopal church in Marfa, Texas and serves four other churches in the Big Bend region of Far West Texas. The Rio Grande Borderland Ministries which Mike serves covers all of New Mexico and Far West Texas. The ministries of Rio Grande Borderland Ministries include working with the Anglican Diocese of Northern Mexico as well as shelters on the U.S. side of the border. Mike helps coordinate responses to the humanitarian crisis along the southern border of the United States, maintaining open communication with the Border Patrol in the Big Bend Sector and supporting Rio Grande Borderland Ministries partnership with Boquillas Beyond Mexico Mission, Inc. Nellie Fagen serves as project coordinator for Rio Grande Borderland Ministries and focuses on developing and implementing strategy for marketing, communications, and fundraising. Nellie has passions for social justice, advocacy, and community building. Be sure to learn more about Rio Grande Borderland Ministries at their website riograndeborderland.org. Sign up for their monthly newsletter and stay up to date on their ministries and ways you can be involved. Follow Rio Grande Borderland Ministries on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @RioGrandeBorderlands. Follow EMM on FB, Twitter, and Instagram where we are @emmrefugees. Join in the ministry of welcome by making a gift to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all gifts are used to support and grow our work resettling refugees, supporting asylum seekers, and creating welcoming communities for all of our immigrant siblings. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com

Today's interview is with Jessica Goudeau, author of After the Last Border: Two Families and the Story of Refuge in America. Goudeau has written for The New York Times, The Atlantic, Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, Teen Vogue, among many other places, and is a former columnist for Catapult. She produced projects for Teen Vogue (“Ask a Syrian Girl”) and “A Line Birds Cannot See,” a documentary about a young girl who crossed the border into the US on her own. She has a PhD in literature from the University of Texas and served as a Mellon Writing Fellow and Interim Writing Center Director at Southwestern University. Goudeau has spent more than a decade working with refugees in Austin, TX and is the co-founder of Hill Tribers, a nonprofit that provided supplemental income for Burmese refugee artisans for seven years. Be sure to follow us on FB, Twitter, and Instagram where we are @emmrefugees. Join in the ministry of welcome by making a gift to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all gifts are used to support and grow our work resettling refugees, supporting asylum seekers, and creating welcoming communities for all of our immigrant siblings. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com

Join us this fall and winter to hear the voices of those involved directly in this ministry of welcome - from on the ground support, to advocacy, to folks finding creative ways to participate and contribute to the welcoming movement. Follow us on FB, Twitter, and Instagram where we are @emmrefugees. Join in the ministry of welcome by making a gift to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all gifts are used to support and grow our work resettling refugees, supporting asylum seekers, and creating welcoming communities for all of our immigrant siblings. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at www.abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com.

Today's episode is a webinar recording of Love God, Love Neighbor: Episcopal Action on Asylum, an overview of asylum in the United States, information about the new rule proposed, a panel conversation with our guests, and specific actions you can take today to advocate for continued protection for asylum. For the PPT slides, webinar recording, advocacy toolkit, and resources, visit www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog. Make a donation to support the refugee resettlement ministry of The Episcopal Church. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries. Check out EMM’s blog for latest updates, opportunities, and alerts: Blog: https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees

Episcopal Migration Ministries, in partnership with The Episcopal Church Office of Government Relations, is offering three weeks of webinars geared toward action for DACA, Refugee Resettlement, and Asylum. In today’s webinar recording we came together to pray, to hear from a panel of folks resettled to the U.S. through the refugee resettlement program, and to learn steps we can take to advocate for and in support of refugees. We invite you to join us for the last webinar of the series - Episcopal Action on Asylum on June 23 at 3:30PM ET. You can register at bit.ly/June Advocacy. Make a donation to support the refugee resettlement ministry of The Episcopal Church. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries. Check out EMM’s blog for latest updates, opportunities, and alerts: Blog: https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/ Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees

Today's episode is a recording from the June 9 webinar - Episcopal Action on DACA Week. Episcopal Migration Ministries and The Episcopal Church Office of Government Relations are hosting a three-part webinar series - Love God, Love Neighbor: Episcopal Month of Action. In today’s webinar recording we came together to pray, hear from DACA recipients, and find out ways we can take action to support DREAMers. We invite you to join us for the next two webinars - Episcopal Action on Resettlement is June 16 at 3:30PM ET and Episcopal Action on Asylum is June 23 at 3:30PM ET. You can register at bit.ly/June Advocacy. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries. Check out EMM’s blog for the latest updates, opportunities, and alerts: Blog: https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/ Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees

Today's episode features an introduction to EMM's latest offering - Virtual Book Club Guides. These guides provide instruction and resources to hold virtual book clubs. All of the books featured cover migration issues from various perspectives and experiences. Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries. Check out EMM’s blog for latest updates, opportunities, and alerts: Blog: https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/ ----------------------------------------------- Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees

Today’s reflection on Station 14 - Jesus is Laid in the Tomb- comes from The Rev. Charles “Chuck” Wynder, Jr. , Officer for Social Justice & Engagement on the Presiding Bishop’s Staff for The Episcopal Church. He works to build capacity for advocacy, embodied witness, and community engagement around social and racial justice in communities throughout the Episcopal Church. Chuck studied at the Episcopal Divinity School, MDiv ’12. A Truman Scholar, he is a native of Hampton, Virginia and is a graduate of Syracuse University and the University of Michigan Law School. He is married to Bethany Dickerson Wynder. They reside in Washington, D.C. where they are raising their son Charles Allen Wynder, III (Chase). Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries. Check out EMM’s blog for latest updates, opportunities, and alerts: Blog: https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees

Today’s reflection on Station 13 - The body of Jesus is placed in the arms of his mother - comes from The Revd Matthew Dumont-Machowski. Matthew is a senior seminarian at Virginia Theological Seminary and has recently been ordained to the transitional diaconate in the Diocese of Virginia. Originally from Poland, Matthew has lived his entire adult life as an immigrant on three different continents. Matthew moved to the United States from the United Kingdom with his husband in 2017. Prior to their move, he served as a research fellow and lecturer in Middle Eastern Politics and Security at the University of London. He has previously worked for the UK Houses of Parliament and political think-tanks in the UK and the Middle East. Matthew is passionate about inter-faith relations, reconciliation, peace-making, and the refugee crisis around the world. Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries. Check out EMM’s blog for latest updates, opportunities, and alerts: Blog: https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees

Today’s reflection on Station 12 - Jesus dies on the cross- comes from The Rev. Jaime Briceño, a transitional Deacon for Episcopal Diocese of Chicago, Director of Admission and Recruitment, and Digital Missioner for Bexley Seabury Seminary. Jaime is from Costa Rica, with an MA Theology degree in Systematic Theology, and Interreligious dialogue from Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries. Check out EMM’s blog for latest updates, opportunities, and alerts: Blog: https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees

Today’s reflection on Station 11 - Jesus is nailed to the cross - comes from The Rev. Canon Amy Real Coulta, Canon to the Ordinary in the Diocese of Kentucky. She serves on the board of Kentucky Refugee Ministries, which has worked with local congregations to resettle refugee families across Kentucky for 30 years. She is a native of Louisville, where she lives with her husband, Kevin. Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries. Check out EMM’s blog for the latest updates, opportunities, and alerts: Blog: https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/ --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees

Today’s reflection on Station 10 - Jesus is stripped of his garments - comes from The Rev. Jean Baptiste Ntagengwa. Currently Canon for Immigration and Multicultural Ministries in the Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts, The Rev. Jean Baptiste Ntagengwa, Th.D. spent his early years in Rwanda, where much of his extended family still lives. His diverse career has included accounting, finance, and economics, academia, refugee resettlement and case management, hospital chaplaincy, parish and diocesan-level ministry in Rwanda, Kenya, and Massachusetts. He and his wife Christine live in Everett and have three children, Jean-Fidele, Peace, and Moses and one grandson, Josiah. Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries. Check out EMM’s blog for the latest updates, opportunities, and alerts: Blog: https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees

Today’s reflection on Station 9 - Jesus falls a third time - comes from Rob Coulston. Rob is the lay campus minister at St. Augustine's Chapel, the Episcopal and Lutheran campus ministry at the University of Kentucky. Raised in the Diocese of Lexington, Rob has served in the church most of his life as a volunteer and professional, including as a director of Reading Camp, a literacy ministry in eastern Kentucky, as an intern at the Society of St. John the Evangelist in Cambridge, MA, and as a youth minister in the Diocese of Upper South Carolina. Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries. Check out EMM’s blog for the latest updates, opportunities, and alerts: Blog: https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees

Today’s reflection on Station 8 - Jesus Meets the Women of Jerusalem - comes from The Rev. Gregory Han and Elena Korbut. The Rev. Gregory Han is a “half-Asian, midwestern-Raised, Jesuit-educated, Harvard-trained, Texas-residing, Presbyterian Minister." ince summer 2014, he has served as the Director of Interfaith Relations & Education at Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston. He is on the faculty of the Honors College at the University of Houston, and he also speaks and teaches widely across the Houston area. He holds degrees from Georgetown University and Harvard Divinity School. Elena Korbut is the Community Engagement Manager in the Refugee Services Department at Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston. She works on connecting refugees to the local community as she believes that this connection is instrumental in helping refugees make Houston their home, to contribute to building a strong and diverse community so they can thrive. Her passion for serving the refugee community is fueled by her experience as an immigrant and someone who is familiar with challenges one faces when moving to a different country. Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries. Check out EMM’s blog for latest updates, opportunities, and alerts: Blog: https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/ ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees

Today’s reflection on Station 7 - Jesus falls for the second time - comes from Abraham Mwinda, a Congolese born, Kenyan raised singer-songwriter based in San Diego, California. His lyrics are birthed from life experience and real life daily conversations with self & others. Rhythms from a rich home culture. Creativity that draws each listener to see a bit of their own story in every song. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/ Abraham Mwinda 'Believe' music video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qOoTTdXVoro Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries. Check out EMM’s blog for the latest updates, opportunities, and alerts: Blog: https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees

Today’s reflection on Station 6 - A woman wipes the face of Jesus - comes from The Rev. Francisco García. A PhD student at Vanderbilt University, focusing on Theological Studies and Ethics, priest, and former community and labor organizer, he also serves as an Assistant Chaplain at St. Augustine's Episcopal Chapel in Nashville. Prior to his doctoral studies, he served as an Episcopal school chaplain, and in leadership roles at two parishes -- most recently as the Rector of Holy Faith Episcopal Church, a multiracial, multilingual congregation in Inglewood, California. Francisco convened and served as Co-Chair of the Sanctuary Task Force of the Diocese of Los Angeles, also known as L.A. Sacred Resistance, formed to implement a Resolution committing the Diocese to be a place of welcome, refuge, and sanctuary to members of the immigrant and refugee community, and all who are targets of hate. Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries. Check out EMM’s blog for the latest updates, opportunities, and alerts: Blog: https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees

Today’s reflection on Station 5 - Simon of Cyrene helps Jesus carry the cross - comes from the Rev. Deacon Paula Ott. The daughter of a Syrian immigrant and a first-generation German American, Paula was raised in a Jewish household in the Reformed tradition. She was baptized into the Christian faith in 1979, becoming an Episcopalian in 1982. In response to God’s call to her, she was ordained as a vocational deacon in the Diocese of Lexington in June of 2010. Paula currently serves as a deacon at Christ Church Cathedral in Lexington, Kentucky, and St. Peter’s Church in Paris, Kentucky. Her ministries include outreach, working with youth and pastoral care. She has worked with immigrants to help them develop a clearer understanding of public school systems. She cares for her two granddaughters and serves as a chaplain for her city’s fire department. Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries. Check out EMM’s blog for latest updates, opportunities, and alerts: Blog: https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/ ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees

Este podcast es el audio que acompaña las Reflexiones sobre el Vía Crucis. Lo invitamos a rezar con nosotros la liturgia el Vía Crucis. Para complementar su experiencia de este podcast, descargue el libreto que contiene la liturgia del Vía Crucis y las reflexiones que corresponden a cada Estación de la Cruz aquí: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/stations20. Hometown es un podcast de Ministerios Episcopales de Migración

This episode features a recording from the February 27 webinar, Accurate Count: Engage the US Census, a joint offering of Episcopal Migration Ministries and The Episcopal Church’s Office of Government Relations. Our presenters are Alan Yarborough, Church Relations Officer for The Episcopal Church’s Office of Government Relations, and Shagufta Ahmed of the National Partnership Program at the US Census Bureau. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries. Check out EMM’s blog for the latest updates, opportunities, and alerts: Blog: https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/ Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees

Today’s reflection on Station 4- Jesus meets Mary - comes from The Rev. Cristina Rathbone. The Rev. Rathbone served for ten years as the Canon Missioner for the Cathedral Church of St. Paul, Boston, working primarily with homeless and marginally housed women and men in that city. Together with the homeless community, she birthed a new faith community named as MANNA (Many Angels Needed Now and Always) which is now a thriving and multi-faceted ministry of the Cathedral. Cristina has spent the past seven months developing the new Bridge Chaplaincy Program for the Diocese of the Rio Grande, helping them find pastoral, incarnate and flexible ways to serve migrants and asylum seekers in Ciudad Juarez and El Paso. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries. Check out EMM’s blog for the latest updates, opportunities, and alerts: Blog: https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/ Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees

Today’s reflection on Station 3 - Jesus Falls for the First time - comes from The Rev. David Ulloa Chavez. Fr. David serves as the Missioner of Border Ministries for the Episcopal Diocese of Arizona. Prior to serving as Missioner, Fr. David served as Priest-in-charge of Iglesia Episcopal Santa Maria and as Curate of Hispanic Ministry at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Phoenix, AZ. His service to the larger church includes being on the Advisory Council for the Hispanic Latino/a Ministries of TEC and as a member of the Anti-racism committee of the Diocese of Arizona. Fr. David is a graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary where he completed his M.Div. and ThM. degrees. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries. Check out EMM’s blog for latest updates, opportunities, and alerts: Blog: https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/ ----------------------------------------------- Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees

This is an audio compilation of EMM’s Reflections on the Stations of the Cross. We invite you to join us as we pray the Liturgy of the Way of the Cross and listen to audio meditations on each station. If you’d like to follow along, you may request the Reflections booklet at www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/stations20. Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries. Check out EMM’s blog for the latest updates, opportunities, and alerts: Blog: https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees

Today’s reflection on Station 2, Jesus takes up his Cross, comes from Rushad Thomas. A native of Central Florida, Mr. Thomas brings a passion for the Gospel of Welcome to his role as OGR’s Policy Advisor for migration issues. A member of the Episcopal Church since November 2013, Rushad currently attends St. Monica and St. James Church on Capitol Hill. Thank you for joining EMM as we journey through the Stations of the Cross. We will release written and audio reflections on each station of the cross weekly on Wednesdays, through April 1, and then shift to a daily release through Good Friday. We will release a digital download booklet, Reflections on Stations of the Cross, on March 12. To receive the daily written reflections and request a copy of the booklet, visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/stations20. Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries. Check out EMM’s blog for latest updates, opportunities, and alerts: Blog: https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/ ----------------------------------------------- Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees

Thank you for joining EMM as we journey through the Stations of the Cross. We will release written and audio reflections on each station of the cross weekly on Wednesdays, through April 1, and then shift to a daily release through Good Friday. We will release a digital download booklet, Reflections on Stations of the Cross, on March 12. To receive the daily written reflections, an audio compilation of the Stations of the Cross, and a copy of the booklet, visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/stations20. For Station 1, Jesus is Condemned to Death, our reflection comes from Ben. “Ben” is a pastor, evangelist, and asylum seeker from Nigeria. He lives in the Southeast United States and continues to fight for his freedom. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries. Check out EMM’s blog for latest updates, opportunities, and alerts: Blog: https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/ ----------------------------------------------- Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees

Today’s episode begins our Hometown Lenten series. We invite you to journey with us through the Stations of the Cross. We will release written and audio reflections on each station of the cross weekly on Wednesdays, Ash Wednesday through April 1, and then shift to a daily release through Good Friday. We will release a digital download booklet, Reflections on Stations of the Cross, on March 12. To receive the daily written reflections and request a copy of the booklet, visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/stations20 Our reflection authors represent a wide variety of experiences and backgrounds; each offers a poignant reflection on a Station and its relevance to migration and what it means to welcome the stranger as we would welcome Christ. Each reflection calls us back to our essential identity as beloved children of God and asks us to prayerfully reflect on the meaning of the Cross in a world being transformed by migration. Today we open with a reflection from EMM’s Allison Duvall, Manager for Church Relations and Engagement. In this role, she supports EMM’s refugee resettlement affiliates and educates, empowers, and inspires local congregations, organizations, and individuals to discern and live into the ministries of welcome to which they are uniquely called. To participate more fully in EMM’s Reflections on the Stations of the Cross, please visit www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/stations20. We invite you to join in the work of welcome by making a donation to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all are put to use to welcome our newest neighbors. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. A: Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter where we are EMMRefugees. K: The music on today’s episode was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/ We invite you to join in the work of welcome by making a donation to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all are put to use to welcome our newest neighbors. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter where we are @EMMRefugees. The music on today’s episode was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/

Today's episode features an interview with Wendy Pearlman, author of We Crossed A Bridge and It Trembled: Voices from Syria. Pick up a copy at your local library or bookstore. Books and website recommended by Wendy Pearlman during the interview: Impossible Revolution by Yassin al-Haj Saleh https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/34144862-the-impossible-revolution His contributions to AlJumhuriya.net https://www.aljumhuriya.net/en/authors/yassin-al-haj-saleh Burning Country by Robin Yassin-Kassab https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26153738-burning-country Assad or We Burn the Country by Sam Dagher https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/36341671-assad-or-we-burn-the-country syriadirect.org aljumhuriya.net thenewhumanitarian.org For Sama https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/frontline/film/for-sama/ The Cave https://www.nationalgeographic.com/films/the-cave/#/ Follow EMM on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram where we are emmrefugees. Join in the work of welcome by making a donation to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all are put to use to welcome our newest neighbors. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/

Today's episode features an interview with Dina Nayeri, author of The Ungrateful Refugee, one of EMM's Partners in Welcome book club picks. Follow EMM on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram where we are @emmrefugees. Join in the work of welcome by making a donation to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all are put to use to welcome our newest neighbors. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/

Today’s episode features a recording from the Tuesday, January 28 webinar hosted by EMM called Immigration Policy Update: State of Play. Rushad Thomas, migration policy advisor in The Episcopal Church's Office of Government Relations, discusses trends in immigrant detention, changes to asylum rules, developments with the refugee admissions program, and more. Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries. Check out EMM’s blog for latest updates, opportunities, and alerts: Blog: https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/ ----------------------------------------------- Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees

Today's episode features an introduction to what listeners can expect in Season 3 of Hometown. We have a busy schedule of webinars, workshops, resources, and educational offerings. Be sure to visit our website, episcopalmigrationministries.org, and sign up to be a Partner in Welcome. Be sure to follow us on FB, Twitter, and Instagram where we are emmrefugees. Join in the work of welcome by making a donation to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all are put to use to welcome our newest neighbors. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/.

Today’s episode features an Advent reflection from The Rev. Deacon Leeann Culbreath, a deacon in the Diocese of Georgia and a founding leader of South Georgia Immigrant Support Network, a humanitarian non-profit supporting individuals and families impacted by immigrant detention through hospitality, visitation, pen pal, post-release, and advocacy programs. She also serves on the Georgia Detention Watch Steering Committee. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Stay tuned for Season Three of the Hometown podcast. We are excited to share new interviews, more backgrounders on refugee-producing countries, and information and resources about our partners across the Anglican Communion supporting refugees, asylum seekers, and immigrants. Join in the work of welcome by making a donation to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all are put to use to welcome our newest neighbors. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries. Check out EMM’s blog for latest updates, opportunities, and alerts: Blog: https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ ----------------------------------------------- Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees

Today’s Advent reflection comes from The Rev. Ranjit Mathews, the 22nd Rector of St. James Episcopal Church, in New London, CT. He has served in this capacity for the past two and half years. He is passionate about being a mid-wife to the Realm of God in New London and the broader world, and wants to offer fresh expression of this ancient faith. His hobbies include politics, movies and hip hop culture and music. He lives with his spouse, Johanna, and their son, Dhruv in New London. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries. Check out EMM’s blog for latest updates, opportunities, and alerts: Blog: https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ Join in the work of welcome by making a donation to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all are put to use to welcome our newest neighbors. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. ----------------------------------------------- Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees

Today’s episode features an Advent reflection from Rushad Thomas, policy advisor in The Episcopal Church’s Office of Government Relations. Stay tuned for next week’s Advent reflection. Follow along on the blog at episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog. Join in the work of welcome by making a donation to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all are put to use to welcome our newest neighbors. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries. Check out EMM’s blog for latest updates, opportunities, and alerts: Blog: https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees

Each week during Advent we will release a reflection in response to the week’s readings from a lay or clergy leader around the Church. Each podcast reflection will be accompanied by a blog post with a written reflection, as well as information about the author. Today’s reflection comes from Tatiana Hoecker. Stay tuned for next week’s Advent reflection. Follow along on the blog at episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog. Join in the work of welcome by making a donation to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all are put to use to welcome our newest neighbors. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries. Check out EMM’s blog for latest updates, opportunities, and alerts: Blog: https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ ----------------------------------------------- Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees

Today’s episode is a recording from a recent virtual workshop called What now? Building Partnerships for a Changing Refugee Ministry. Unlike the webinars we have previously shared, this is a virtual workshop which is intended to be interactive learning event for Partners in Welcome members and others to gather together with a practitioner and expert, someone on the ground, a conversation facilitator, to learn, share best practices and ideas and be in dialogue with one another around a common theme or topic. Join in the work of welcome by making a donation to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all are put to use to welcome our newest neighbors. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries. Check out EMM’s blog for the latest updates, opportunities, and alerts: Blog: https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/ ------------------------------------------------- Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees

This episode is recorded audio from a recent webinar featuring an update from Policy Advisor Rushad Thomas from The Episcopal Church's Office of Government Relations. Rushad provides an overview of the migration policy landscape on Capitol Hill. This presentation covers everything from DACA and public charge to refugees and family separation, all with a focus on connecting the Church’s public policy positions back to our baptismal promise to proclaim the Good News of God in Christ, seek and serve Christ in all persons, and respect the dignity of every human being. Join in the work of welcome by making a donation to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all are put to use to welcome our newest neighbors. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/ Follow Episcopal Migration Ministries on FB, Twitter, and Instagram: @emmrefugees

Today’s podcast episode is the edited audio from a recent virtual workshop called Asset-Based Community Development 201: The Story of Galilee Ministries of East Charlotte. Galilee Ministries of East Charlotte is a ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina, birthed through the identification of assets and intentional conversation with the community. Thank you to Galilee Ministries of East Charlotte for sharing their story with us. Support Galilee Ministries here: https://galilee.dionc.org/Donate/donate-to-galilee.html In the podcast, Rebecca and Toni mention Presiding Bishop Michael Curry’s 2012 and 2013 addresses to the Diocese of North Carolina, where he was then bishop diocesan. View here: 2013: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h1UIAGA1u9I 2012: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u5UI9hY0l7A **** Check out EMM’s blog for the latest updates, opportunities, and alerts: Blog: https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/ ------------------------------------------------- Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees

This episode features audio from a recent webinar EMM hosted called U.S. Immigration Basics. Our webinar host is Alyson Ball, a member of EMM’s Partners in Welcome community who graciously offered to share a virtual version of the U.S. Immigration presentation she has presented widely. Alyson provides an overview of U.S. Immigration history, laws, and system. Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries. ***** Allyson Ball’s Powerpoint presentation: http://episcopalmigrationministries.org/wp-content/uploads/US-Immigration-The-Basics-ppt.pdf **** Get your own EMM t-shirt, hoodie, or tote bag! bit.ly/emmfall2019 Check out EMM’s blog for latest updates, opportunities, and alerts: Blog: https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/

Join Episcopal Migration Ministries and The Episcopal Church’s Office of Government Relations for a webinar recorded on Monday, September 30. This webinar provides an update on the U.S. refugee admissions program, ways you can take action, and how you can get involved in the ministry of welcome. Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries. **************************************************************** Get your own EMM t-shirt, hoodie, or tote bag! bit.ly/emmfall2019 Check out EMM’s blog for the latest updates, opportunities, and alerts: Blog: https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/ ------------------------------------------------- Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees

The Episcopal Public Policy Network (EPPN) and Episcopal Migration Ministries (EMM) hosted a webinar with guest speaker Bishop Michael Hunn of the Diocese of the Rio Grande to discuss border ministry and advocacy. We covered the latest policy changes related to the border and heard a first hand account from Bishop Hunn about how The Episcopal Church is responding to humanitarian needs. We also offered time for dialogue and questions, in addition to offering ways to get involved.

Allison and Kendall recently had the opportunity to join the Diocese of West Texas for their Walk in Love Border Tour. The “Walk in Love” border tour highlighted some of the Episcopal ministries and humanitarian efforts in south-central Texas. The May 15-17 tour of Texas began in San Antonio and made stops along the U.S.-Mexico border in Roma, McAllen and Brownsville. The 'Walk in Love' episode features an interview with two of the participants on the tour who also work at The Episcopal Church - Lacy Broemel, Refugee and Immigration Policy Advisor in The Episcopal Church Office of Government Relations and Jenny Grant, Officer for Global Relations and Networking in The Episcopal Church Office of Global Partnerships. Do you have a question about how to be most helpful in serving refugees, immigrants, and asylum-seekers?Are you interested in sharing your work or your congregation's work? Are you eager to make connections with other people who are doing the same kind of work and learn from one another? Join Partners in Welcome, a free online community that offers a chance for engaging conversation, connection with people all over the country who care about these issues, and a wealth of resources and learning opportunities. We have so much to gain from sharing information and experiences with one another. Sign up today! www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/partne…elcome Follow EMM on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram where we are @emmrefugees. Join in the work of welcome by making a donation to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all are put to use to welcome our newest neighbors. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/

Season Two, Episode Six of Hometown features interviews from Refugee Council USA Advocacy Days on the Hill in Washington, DC. Allison and Kendall are joined by more than 250 other advocates - former refugees, members of the community who believe in and support the resettlement program - speaking to our members of Congress. This episode brings their voices and stories to you - why they believe in advocacy for refugees, and advice and encouragement to inspire you to engage in advocacy, too. Do you have a question about how to be most helpful in serving refugees, immigrants, and asylum-seekers? Are you interested in sharing your work or your congregation's work? Are you eager to make connections with other people who are doing the same kind of work and learn from one another? Join Partners in Welcome, a free online community that offers a chance for engaging conversation, connection with people all over the country who care about these issues, and a wealth of resources and learning opportunities. We have so much to gain from sharing information and experiences with one another. Sign up today! www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/partnersinwelcome Follow EMM on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram where we are emmrefugees. Join in the work of welcome by making a donation to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all are put to use to welcome our newest neighbors. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/ Until next time, peace be with you and all those you consider home.

Season 2, Episode 5 features an interview with Bethany Showalter, the Special Programs Manager with the CWS Immigration and Refugee Program. She has worked in refugee resettlement in CWS affiliate offices for the past ten years. In her current role, she helps coordinate efforts with a group of humanitarian shelters along the southwest border to support asylum seekers as they travel to destination cities, which includes managing a free and confidential resource hotline for asylum seekers. CWS press release about the asylum-seeker hotline: https://cwsglobal.org/cws-launches-call-center-to-connect-asylum-seekers-released-from-detention-with-resources-in-local-communities/ Asylum Hotline email: [email protected] Do you have a question about how to be most helpful in serving refugees, immigrants, and asylum-seekers?Are you interested in sharing your work or your congregation's work? Are you eager to make connections with other people who are doing the same kind of work and learn from one another? Join Partners in Welcome, a free online community that offers a chance for engaging conversation, connection with people all over the country who care about these issues, and a wealth of resources and learning opportunities. We have so much to gain from sharing information and experiences with one another. Sign up at www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/partnersinwelcome Follow EMM on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @EMMRefugees. Join in the work of welcome by making a donation to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all are put to use to welcome our newest neighbors. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at https://abrahammwinda.bandcamp.com/

Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries, the refugee resettlement and welcome ministry of the Episcopal Church. This episode's interview features The Rt. Rev’d David C Rice, diocesan bishop, and Tom Hampson, both from the Diocese of San Joaquin. Bishop David was formerly the Diocesan Bishop in the Diocese of Waiapu in the Anglican Church in Aotearoa/New Zealand and Polynesia. Prior to David’s consecration as the fifteenth Bishop of Waiapu, he was Dean of the Cathedral of St. Paul’s in the Diocese of Dunedin in New Zealand. And before David’s deanship, he was Vicar of Mt. Herbert Parish on Banks Peninsula in the Diocese of Christchurch also in NZ. David became an Anglican Priest in 1997, prior to that he was a United Methodist Minister.David has been involved in the ministry with young people for many years. He was the Youth Liaison Bishop representing the House of Bishops in the “youth scene” in the three tikanga (cultures) church in New Zealand. Equally, David is a strong “ecumenist” and has a history of exploring ways in which the church can be far more collaborative and collegial across denominations and faiths. David also has a heart for social justice ministry and continues to seek ways in which the church can join with all of God’s People wherever they are. Tom Hampson is co-chair of the Immigration Task Force for the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin. He's also a Candidate to the Diaconate and will complete his studies at the School for Deacons at Church Divinity School of the Pacific next month. Presently retired, Tom worked for Church World Service for 31 years in the areas of constituent education, marketing and fundraising. Learn more about the Pilgrimage of Hope and how you can get involved at www.thepilgrimageofhope.org. Follow along on twitter and instagram @SJRAISE. We invite you to join us for an event hosted by both The Episcopal Church Office of Government Relations and Episcopal Migration Ministries called Love God, Love Neighbor: Advocacy in Action. This two day gathering June 27 and 28 in Washington DC will provide both messaging and advocacy training, as well as a full day on the Hill advocating on behalf of refugees and the refugee resettlement program. Learn more at episcopalmigrationministries.org/lgln Have a question about how to be most helpful in serving refugees, immigrants, and asylum-seekers? Interested in sharing your work or your congregation's work? Eager to make connections with other people who are doing the same kind of work and learn from one another? Join Partners in Welcome, a free online community that offers a chance for engaging conversation, connection with people all over the country who care about these issues, and a wealth of resources and learning opportunities. We have so much to gain from sharing information and experiences with one another. Sign up today! www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/partnersinwelcome Follow EMM on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram where we are emmrefugees. Join in the work of welcome by making a donation to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all are put to use to welcome our newest neighbors. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at www.abrahammwindamusic.com.

Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries, the refugee resettlement and welcome ministry of the Episcopal Church. Reflection author and Interview Guest: This week’s reflection author and interview guest is Drocella Mugorewera, Executive Director of Bridge Refugee Services, the only refugee resettlement agency in East Tennessee since 1982. Mugorewera came to the United States in 2009 as a refugee herself and was resettled by Bridge Refugee Services, an affiliate partner of Episcopal Migration Ministries. Drocella is passionate about dignity for all and socio-economic and environmental justice. She believes that with proper management of all the abundant natural resources and being open to new ideas, we can minimize the homelessness in America. Drocella previously served as a Parliamentarian and Secretary of Lands, Environment, Forestry, Water, and Mines in the Government of Rwanda. Drocella is a Board member of Tennessee Valley Homeless Coalition and the Refugee Congress, the only national advocacy organization led by refugees and for refugees. A graduate of the 2017 class at the Consortium for Social Enterprise Effectiveness -Haslam College of Business, she has been recognized by the Knoxville Mercury as one of 10 women making a difference in Knoxville TN. She completed 2018 Leadership Knoxville class. She currently serves on the Connect Knox Steering Committee. Mugorewera is also an active member of the Knoxville Association of Women Executives (KAWE). Mugorewera was honored as one of the 34th Annual YWCA Tribute to Women finalists. In November 2018, Mugorewera received the Champions for Change award from Church World Service. Drocella is one the 2019 Peacemaker award recipients from the Oak Ridge Environmental Peace Alliance. Drocella speaks five languages including English, French, Russian, Kinyarwanda and Kirundi. Drocella likes reading, traveling and visit places, networking and empowering/helping people. We invite you to join us for an event hosted by both The Episcopal Church Office of Government Relations and Episcopal Migration Ministries called Love God, Love Neighbor: Advocacy in Action. This two day gathering June 27 and 28 in Washington DC will provide both messaging and advocacy training, as well as a full day on the Hill advocating on behalf of refugees and the refugee resettlement program. Learn more at episcopalmigrationministries.org/lgln Have a question about how to be most helpful in serving refugees, immigrants, and asylum-seekers? Interested in sharing your work or your congregation's work? Eager to make connections with other people who are doing the same kind of work and learn from one another? Join Partners in Welcome, a free online community that offers a chance for engaging conversation, connection with people all over the country who care about these issues, and a wealth of resources and learning opportunities. We have so much to gain from sharing information and experiences with one another. Sign up today! www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/partnersinwelcome Join in the work of welcome by making a donation to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all are put to use to welcome our newest neighbors. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at www.abrahammwindamusic.com Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees

Our guests on this episode: Wendy Chan and Vanda Berninger, cochairs for the One Journey Festival in Washington, DC. The mission of the One Journey Festival is to amplify refugee voices and enhance public awareness of refugee talents and contributions. They strive to build enduring allies for refugees and use cultural and technological tools to facilitate human connections between refugees and their host communities. Our guest Vanda, who was born in Croatia, immigrated to Germany in 1991 during the civil war in former Yugoslavia. In Germany, Vanda served as the spokesperson for immigrant and refugee policy for a major German political party in Frankfurt/Main and worked for various development agencies and NGO’s. Currently, Vanda leads strategic partnership efforts for One Journey to influence public perception of refugees in positive/celebratory ways and identify innovative partnership to address humanitarian crises. Wendy Chan, is the co-founder of NOVA Friends of Refugees, a grassroots coalition dedicated to welcoming refugees. Wendy immigrated to the US from China at age 12. Her humble, blue-collar immigrant background helped her appreciate the courage and tenacity of refugees and see the talents they could bring to America. Wendy leads the nearly 1,000 member interfaith coalition, born out of St. George’s Episcopal Church of Arlington’s Refugee Ministry, in helping refugees through advocacy, social services, and community engagement. She is also a Senior Manager at Accenture and a parishioner at St. George Episcopal Church. She has an MBA from Wharton, UPenn and an MA from SAIS, Johns Hopkins. She is a recipient of the 2018 Washington Business Journal’s Minority Business Leaders Award. Follow EMM on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram where we are @emmrefugees. Join in the work of welcome by making a donation to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all are put to use to welcome our newest neighbors. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music atwww.abrahammwindamusic.com.

In this first episode of Season two of Hometown, we offer a Lenten reflection, give a brief update on the current state of the refugee resettlement program, explore why now is the time for the Partners in Welcome community, what participation in the Partners in Welcome community and online portal offers, and how you can join. Follow EMM on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram where we are @emmrefugees. Join in the work of welcome by making a donation to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all are put to use to welcome our newest neighbors. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at www.abrahammwindamusic.com.

This is the third in our three-part Walking in Welcome Advent series. The program was released as a webinar in addition to this podcast episode. Webinar Recording: https://vimeo.com/307124206 Stay in Touch and Connect with Partners in Welcome We’d love to stay in touch with you and share details in the lead-up to our Partners in Welcome Web Portal Launch on February 28. Sign up here: http://bit.ly/PartnersInterest Give the Gift of Welcome Welcoming refugees has always been a ministry of the whole Church. We began this work more than 80 years ago, when local parishes collected donations to help refugees fleeing Nazi Europe. We have met great need with great love before. And today, we must do so again. We must come together to stand for refugees. This is our shared ministry. Together, we live into the biblical and holy call from Christ to “welcome the stranger” and “serve the least of these.” With your help, we will continue to welcome refugees to a place of safety and welcome. Stand for welcome. Make your gift today. Give securely online at episcopalmigrationministries.org/give Text ‘EMM’ to 41444 (standard messaging rates may apply) Make your credit or debit card gift over the phone by calling (800) 334-7626 extension 6271, or ask for special gift envelopes to be mailed to you Thank you, in advance, for gifts that do so much. We pray you have a blessed remainder of Advent, and wish you a very Merry Christmas! We look forward to connecting with you in the new year.

This is the second in our three-part Walking in Welcome Advent series. Some resources from the recording below: • Webinar Recording: https://vimeo.com/306804790 Upcoming Webinars Please register for the third webinars in the Walking in Welcome series: •Webinar #3: Partners in Welcome: Join Us On the Way, Dec. 18 at 12 pm Eastern. SIGN UP (register.gotowebinar.com/register/543…519029931523) Give the Gift of Welcome Now more than ever, EMM and our local partners need your support. Welcoming refugees has always been a ministry of the whole Church. We began this work more than 80 years ago, when local parishes collected donations to help refugees fleeing Nazi Europe. We have met great need with great love before. And today, we must do so again. We must come together to stand for refugees. This is our shared ministry. Together, we live into the biblical and holy call from Christ to “welcome the stranger” and “serve the least of these.” With your help, we will continue to welcome refugees to a place of safety and welcome. Stand for welcome. Make your gift today. •Give securely online at episcopalmigrationministries.org/give •Text ‘EMM’ to 41444 (standard messaging rates may apply) •Make your credit or debit card gift over the phone by calling (800) 334-7626 extension 6271, or ask for special gift envelopes to be mailed to you. Thank you, in advance, for gifts that do so much.

This is the first in our three-part Walking in Welcome Advent series. Some resources from the recording below: • Webinar Recording: https://vimeo.com/304853873 • Center for Applied Linguistics’ Cultural Orientation Resource Center (http://www.culturalorientation.net/) Upcoming Webinars Please register for the second and third webinars in the Walking in Welcome series: •Webinar #2: One Community’s Journey to Welcome: The Story of West Virginia Interfaith Refugee Ministry Dec. 13 at 4 pm Eastern. SIGN UP (https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/9074700867224010499) •Webinar #3: Partners in Welcome: Join Us On the Way, Dec. 18 at 12 pm Eastern. SIGN UP (https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/5432976519029931523) Give the Gift of Welcome Now more than ever, EMM and our local partners need your support. Welcoming refugees has always been a ministry of the whole Church. We began this work more than 80 years ago, when local parishes collected donations to help refugees fleeing Nazi Europe. We have met great need with great love before. And today, we must do so again. We must come together to stand for refugees. This is our shared ministry. Together, we live into the biblical and holy call from Christ to “welcome the stranger” and “serve the least of these.” With your help, we will continue to welcome refugees to a place of safety and welcome. Stand for welcome. Make your gift today. •Give securely online at episcopalmigrationministries.org/give •Text ‘EMM’ to 41444 (standard messaging rates may apply) •Make your credit or debit card gift over the phone by calling (800) 334-7626 extension 6271, or ask for special gift envelopes to be mailed to you. Thank you, in advance, for gifts that do so much.

Today on Hometown, Kendall and Allison speak with colleagues Alan Yarborough, from The Episcopal Church's Office of Government Relations, and Ashley Coleman, from New American Pathways in Atlanta, about civic engagement, voter registration, and non-partisan efforts to get out the vote. The conversation was recorded the afternoon of Monday, September 17. Later that day, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced a historic and record low presidential determination, or refugee admissions number, for 2019 - only 30,000. This is the lowest number ever set, in the history of the US Refugee Admissions program. In the interview, Ashley mentions a resolution that will be put forth by Congressman Hank Johnson. The morning that we’re releasing the podcast, Sept 21, the resolution was introduced. Read it here and ask your Representative to sign on: https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-resolution/1073/text/ih?overview=closed&format=txt Presiding Bishop Michael Curry's Statement about the announcement: https://www.episcopalchurch.org/posts/publicaffairs/presiding-bishop-michael-currys-statement-administrations-2019-refugee It is critical that you take action. Let your members of Congress know that this number does not represent your community's heart of welcome. Visit the Episcopal Public Policy Network and send a message to Congress: https://advocacy.episcopalchurch.org/app/write-a-letter?3&engagementId=484233 And, as we discuss with Alan and Ashley - get involved! Make sure you're registered to vote, and help others participate in our democracy. Learn about New American Pathways and their voter registration work on their website: www.newamericanpathways.org. Get inspired and involved with voter registration and get out the vote efforts in your community. Take part in the Vote Faithfully campaign - https://cqrcengage.com/episcopal/file/euXNP1gXXKY/VoteFaithfully_Toolkit%202018.pdf Order your own "I'm an Episcopalian and I voted!" stickers by visiting http://advocacy.episcopalchurch.org Get involved with us and our guests on social media: EMM: emmrefugees on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter EPPN: theeppn on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter New American Pathways: /NewAmericanPathways on Facebook, @newampaths on Twitter ------------ Our theme song is by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at www.abrahammwindamusic.com

Listen to today’s episode – and pray with us. Pray, then act. Visit @theeppn on social media or advocacy.episcopalchurch.org to take action. Repost and share from our social media feeds. On Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, we are EMMRefugees. Use hashtags #Pray4Refugees and #RefugeesWelcome. episcopalmigrationministries.org/pray4refugees/ episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ Prayerfully consider making a gift to ensure that refugees resettled through EMM are given a solid foundation to begin again in safety and hope. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text EMM to 41444. Our theme music is by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at www.abrahammwindamusic.com.

Listen to today’s episode – and pray with us. Pray, then act. Visit @theeppn on social media or advocacy.episcopalchurch.org to take action. Repost and share from our social media feeds. On Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, we are EMMRefugees. Use hashtags #Pray4Refugees and #RefugeesWelcome. episcopalmigrationministries.org/pray4refugees/ episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ Prayerfully consider making a gift to ensure that refugees resettled through EMM are given a solid foundation to begin again in safety and hope. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text EMM to 41444. Our theme music is by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at www.abrahammwindamusic.com.

Listen to today’s episode – and pray with us. Pray, then act. Visit @theeppn on social media or http://advocacy.episcopalchurch.org to take action. Repost and share from our social media feeds. On Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, we are EMMRefugees. Use hashtags #Pray4Refugees and #RefugeesWelcome. https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/pray4refugees/ https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ Prayerfully consider making a gift to ensure that refugees resettled through EMM are given a solid foundation to begin again in safety and hope. Visit episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text EMM to 41444. Our theme music is by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at www.abrahammwindamusic.com.

Listen to today’s episode - and pray with us. Pray, then act. Visit @theeppn on social media or http://advocacy.episcopalchurch.org to take action. Repost and share from our social media feeds. On Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, we are EMMRefugees. Use hashtags #Pray4Refugees and #RefugeesWelcome. https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/pray4refugees/ https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ Our theme music is by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at www.abrahammwindamusic.com.

Today we begin a week-long vigil of prayer for refugees. Join us in this solemn act of solidarity and hope with our sisters and brothers, the world over, seeking safety, peace, and a place to call home. Listen to today’s episode - and pray with us. Pray, then act. Visit @theeppn on social media or http://advocacy.episcopalchurch.org to take action. Repost and share from our social media feeds. On Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, we are EMMRefugees. Use hashtags #Pray4Refugees and #RefugeesWelcome. https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/pray4refugees/ https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog/ Our theme music is by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at www.abrahammwindamusic.com.

Hi there, Hometown listeners! Allison and Kendall are back for a short mid-season pod episode - to give you updates on what’s happening with the refugee resettlement program and to share some opportunities to join EMM. Presidential Determination First, we discuss the presidential determination, which is the number, set annually by the president, of refugees allowed to be admitted to the country through the US Refugee Admissions Program. If you’ve been following the news, you know that refugee arrivals to the US have dropped precipitously in the last year. We discuss that, the history of refugee arrivals, and how we must all speak out to advocate for refugees and the resettlement program. We suggest going back and listening to previous episodes for context: Episode 1, “Welcome to Hometown” https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/welcome-to-hometown/ Episode 2, “Where is Home?” https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/where-is-home/ Episode 5, “Lost and Found” https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/lost-and-found/ We encourage you to get involved in the act of changing hearts and minds. Visit advocacy.episcopalchurch.org. Check out resources from the Episcopalians Vote! campaign. “Voting and participation in our government is a way of participating in our common life and that is a Christian obligation.” -Presiding Bishop Michael Curry Register to vote! https://vote.gov/ Be an informed voter! http://www.rockthevote.org/voting-information/ Vote! https://www.rockthevote.org/voting-information/find-your-polling-place/ Mobilize! https://cqrcengage.com/episcopal/file/HNslHve2uJc/VoteFaithfully_Toolkit%202018.pdf Join Lawyers and Collars! http://lawyersandcollars.org/ Engage your faith community using the Vote Faithfully Toolkit 2018!https://cqrcengage.com/episcopal/file/HNslHve2uJc/VoteFaithfully_Toolkit%202018.pdf Order #VoteFaithfully stickers! Send a quick message to [email protected]. Love God, Love Neighbor Join us for the final Love God, Love Neighbor training of 2018. Love God, Love Neighbor is a three-day training that equips participants to be advocates, allies, and ambassadors for refugees and the ministry of refugee resettlement. The training provides an in-depth exploration of the global displacement crisis, US refugee policy, the refugee resettlement process, faith-based advocacy for refugees, and organizing to welcome and support refugees in your home community. Join us October 11-13, 2018 at Christ Church Cathedral in Louisville, Kentucky. To learn more and register visit bit.ly/LGLNLOU Support EMM Join in the work of welcome by making a donation to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all are put to use to welcome our newest neighbors. Visit www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. -------------------------------- Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at www.abrahammwindamusic.com. Follow EMM on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: emmrefugees Stay tuned for season two of Hometown!

Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries. Be sure to subscribe – we’ll continue to release special episodes throughout the summer! Interview Today’s episode features an interview with Amanda Payne, Minister to Youth & Children at St. James Episcopal Church in Dallas. Amanda’s youth group is primarily composed of youth who were Karen refugees. Her ministry is powerful, her story is stirring, and her work for welcome is inspiring. Amanda talks about EMM’s Love God, Love Neighbor (LGLN) program. We are actively seeking congregations, dioceses, or even provinces to partner with us as hosts of future LGLN trainings. Interested? Let us know! [email protected] Support EMM From now through July 13, EMM is running a t-shirt fundraiser campaign! Get your very own #SupportRefugees EMM t-shirt at bit.ly/EMMtshirt. Join us in the work of welcome by making a donation to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all are put to use to welcome our newest neighbors. Visit www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. ——————————– Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at www.abrahammwindamusic.com. Follow EMM on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: emmrefugees SPECIAL THANKS Special thanks to Kali Muhly-Alexander for editing and producing the episode. Kali is an intern with West Virginia Interfaith Refugee Ministry (www.wvirm.com), a partner of Episcopal Migration Ministries. Thank you, WVIRM, for your support of the Hometown podcast.

This morning, staff from Episcopal Migration Ministries gathered with hundreds of Episcopalians at the T. Don Hutto Residential Center, a for-profit facility detaining 512 women, many of whom are seeking asylum in the United States. Forty of the women inside are mothers who were separated from their children at the border. We prayed and we lamented. We are stirred to action and to advocacy. We want to share the experience with you. This podcast episode features audio from the vigil, including Presiding Bishop Michael Curry’s homily. SUPPORT EMM From now through July 13, you can purchase your very own EMM #SupportRefugees t-shirt. All proceeds will go to support EMM's work of welcome. Get your very own at http://bit.ly/EMMtshirt.

Allison and Kendall continue to meet amazing people at General Convention who are sharing why they #SupportRefugees. On today's episode, you meet one of those people - Padre Alex Nagy, Priest Associate for Latino Ministries at St. Andrew's by-the-Sea Episcopal Church in San Diego, CA. Fr. Alex shares his own story and talks about his ministry today. SUPPORT EMM From now through July 13, we're running a t-shirt fundraiser. You can buy your very own EMM #SupportRefugees t-shirt at http://bit.ly/EMMtshirt and share that you welcome refugees. Follow our adventures at General Convention and beyond on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, where we are EMMRefugees.

Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries. Be sure to subscribe - we’ll continue to release special episodes throughout the summer! Interview Today’s episode features an interview with our friends from Mad Priest Coffee. Join us and learn how Michael Rice dreamed up the idea to start a coffee business, his passion and mission for hiring refugees and giving back to the community, and meet Tarig, the face of Mad Priest Coffee who handles production, delivery, and works at the roastery coffee bar. Learn how you can help Mad Priest Coffee expand their business by visiting their Kickstarter campaign. Make sure to contribute by midnight on Friday, July 6: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1813681640/the-mad-priest-coffee-and-cocktails Check out our partnership with Mad Priest Coffee and get your hands on a special EMM Blend Coffee! https://madpriestcoffee.com/ Support EMM From now through July 13, EMM is running a t-shirt fundraiser campaign! Get your very own #SupportRefugees EMM t-shirt at http://bit.ly/EMMtshirt. Join us in the work of welcome by making a donation to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all are put to use to welcome our newest neighbors. Visit www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. -------------------------------- Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at www.abrahammwindamusic.com. Follow EMM on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: emmrefugees SPECIAL THANKS Special thanks to Kali Muhly-Alexander for editing and producing the episode. Kali is an intern with West Virginia Interfaith Refugee Ministry (www.wvirm.com), a partner of Episcopal Migration Ministries. Thank you, WVIRM, for your support of the Hometown podcast.

On June 18, Episcopal Migration Ministries and The Episcopal Church’s Office of Government Relations hosted a conversation about the history and present of The Episcopal Church’s legacy of refugee welcome. Our present moment is not so unlike our past. In the 1930's and 1940's, the Church was galvanized to stand for refugees fleeing Nazi atrocities in Europe. Today, over 22.5 million children of God are refugees, fleeing terror, persecution, violence, and war. We are called, at this moment, to stand for them. Allison Duvall and Kendall Martin of Episcopal Migration Ministries, and Lacy Broemel of the Office of Government Relations, speaks about the Church’s history and heritage of welcome, and how we are called to continue that legacy today. Offered the week of World Refugee Day (June 20) and in advance of General Convention, “Our 1939 Moment: Continuing the Legacy of Welcome” offers information, inspiration, and specific ways individuals and congregations can claim this legacy and this work as their own. “Our 1939 Moment: Continuing the Legacy of Welcome” will also be released as a podcast episode on EMM’s podcast, “Hometown,” which is available on Apple Podcasts, GooglePlay, Stitcher, and SoundCloud. Each episode is also released on EMM’s blog, www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog, and featured on EMM’s social media - @emmrefugees. SPECIAL THANKS AND CREDITS Thank you to Rob Coulston, campus minister at St. Augustine's Chapel/Episcopal-Lutheran Campus Ministry, in Lexington, KY for providing the voice-overs for Rev. Thomas Burgess and Bishop Henry Hobson. Special thanks to special thanks to Lacy Broemel from the Episcopal Church’s Office of Government Relations for joining us, and to Kali Muhly-Alexander for editing and producing the episode. Kali is an intern with West Virginia Interfaith Refugee Ministry (www.wvirm.com), a partner of Episcopal Migration Ministries. Thank you, WVIRM, for your support of the Hometown podcast.

We’re excited to release this bonus episode, featuring our conversation with The Rev. Chris Bishop, reflection author from Episode 10 (titled "A Home for All of Us"), as he shares more about his work with displaced Christian communities in Iraq. Learn about his organization, Stand with Iraqi Christians: http://standwithiraqichristians.org/ ------------------------------------- We also mention in this episode: Mad Priest Coffee (https://madpriestcoffee.com/), a coffee shop and roastery in Chattanooga, Tennessee, whose mission is “Craft Excellent Coffee. Educate the Curious. Champion the Displaced.” They not only educate customers about the global refugee crisis and refugee resettlement, but they also hire former refugees. And - they’re expanding, which means they can grow their mission and their business and hire more New Americans. Check out their Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1813681640/the-mad-priest-coffee-and-cocktails General Convention: Are you going to The Episcopal Church’s General Convention? We’ll be there and we’d love to meet you! Visit our booth in the Exhibit Hall (booth 410) to learn more about EMM’s work, enjoy excellent coffee from Mad Priest Coffee Roasters, enter into some drawings for remastered prints of the iconic vintage “In the name of these refugees, aid all refugees” poster, try delicious food from a refugee-owned business, get some cool swag, and more. You might even get featured on a Facebook Live or get to say share why you #supportrefugees on a podcast episode. -------------------------------------------- Save the Date: Monday, June 18, 4pm Eastern FREE WEBINAR: Our 1939 Moment: Continuing the Legacy of Welcome This webinar will be a conversation about the history and present of the Episcopal Church’s legacy of refugee welcome. We will offer information, inspiration, and specific ways you can claim this legacy and this work as your own. Register at http://bit.ly/1939webinar And if you’re not the webinar type - don’t worry - we’ll repackage it for you and release it on June 20. Watch your podcast feed! --------------------- Get ready for World Refugee Day! Check out EMM’s World Refugee Day page: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/worldrefugeeday. Support EMM One thing you could do for World Refugee Day is invite others to join in the work of welcome by making a donation to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all are put to use to welcome our newest neighbors. Visit www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at www.abrahammwindamusic.com. Follow EMM on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: emmrefugees Stay in touch with the Good Book Club! They’re coming back next liturgical year: www.goodbookclub.org.

#RoyalWedding preacher reprise - Before Presiding Bishop Curry was known around the world as the Royal Wedding preacher, he, of course, was - and is! - the beloved Presiding Bishop of The Episcopal Church. Months ago, he was also our scripture reflection author for our Palm Sunday episode (look for “Precious Lord” in your podcast feed). Today we’re releasing a special post-Season 1 bonus episode to replay Bishop Curry’s stirring reflection, and also to bring you an important backgrounder from Laetitia Mizero Hellerud, who is an author, activist, teacher, seeker, and was our interview guest in Episode 15 - “Drop Your Anchor.” We hope you enjoy this bonus listen. We begin with Bishop Curry then turn to Laetitia’s backgrounder on her native Burundi. We encourage you to go back and listen to her interview, too. Bonus Presiding Bishop Curry’s 2017 message for World Refugee Day - https://www.episcopalchurch.org/library/video/world-refugee-day-2017. Stay tuned for his 2018 message! Laetitia is the author of Being at Home in the World: Cross-Cultural Leadership Lessons to Guide Your Journey. Learn more about Laetitia at https://laetitiahellerud.com/, and find her book on Amazon here: http://a.co/hvbUFXW. Get ready for World Refugee Day! www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/worldrefugeeday. Every year, World Refugee Day is observed on June 20. This is an important day to celebrate the strength, resilience, and contributions of refugees to communities all over the world - and for us to deepen our commitment to the work of welcome and refugee resettlement. We hope you’ll participate in or organize something to celebrate the day! It could be a small gathering, including Prayers of the People for Refugees and Displaced Persons in your Sunday worship, taking up a special Refugee Sunday collection to support EMM, host a film viewing, and so much more! Support EMM Join in the work of welcome by making a donation to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all are put to use to welcome our newest neighbors. Visit www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. -------------------------------- Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at www.abrahammwindamusic.com. Special thanks to Whit Whitaker for offering his vocal talents. His soulful singing of the hymn Precious Lord is a moving complement to the Presiding Bishop’s reflection. Learn more about Whit Whitaker on our blog, https://episcopalmigrationministries.org/2545-2-2-2/. Follow EMM on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: emmrefugees Stay in touch with the Good Book Club! They’re coming back next liturgical year: www.goodbookclub.org.

Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries and is part of the Good Book Club. This is the last episode in Season 1! Stay subscribed - we’ll release special episodes throughout the summer, including from General Convention! Pentecost Sunday is the last day of this round of the Good Book Club. Scripture readings: Acts 27:13—28:44. Scripture reflection To close out the first season of Hometown, hosts Allison & Kendall discuss the end of Acts as metaphor, searching for a place to drop your anchor, Burundi, how beautiful and overwhelming it is to be welcomed and made to feel at home, and how we’re called to create home for others. Interview This last interview in season 1 is special. We speak with Laetitia Mizero Hellerud, an activist, learner, teacher, seeker, and social justice advocate. Laetitia is the author of Being at Home in the World: Cross-Cultural Leadership Lessons to Guide Your Journey. “As a four-time refugee, change and adaptation has become a way of life for Laetitia Mizero Hellerud. Having to adapt to this way of thinking since childhood, she learned to rely on her own decisions and, at the same time, accept the love and help of others to survive. In Being at Home in the World, Laetitia shares what she has learned about adaptation about finding your home in the midst of chaos and struggle. It starts with an open mind and an open heart.” Learn more about Laetitia at https://laetitiahellerud.com/, and find her book on Amazon here: http://a.co/hvbUFXW. Get ready for World Refugee Day! Check out EMM’s World Refugee Day page: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/worldrefugeeday. Every year, World Refugee Day is observed on June 20. This is an important day to celebrate the strength, resilience, and contributions of refugees to communities all over the world - and for us to deepen our commitment to the work of welcome and refugee resettlement. We hope you’ll participate in or organize something to celebrate the day! It could be a small gathering, including Prayers of the People for Refugees and Displaced Persons in your Sunday worship, taking up a special Refugee Sunday collection to support EMM, host a film viewing, and so much more! Support EMM One thing you could do for World Refugee Day is invite others to join in the work of welcome by making a donation to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all are put to use to welcome our newest neighbors. Visit www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. -------------------------------- Our theme song composer is Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at www.abrahammwindamusic.com. Follow EMM on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: emmrefugees Stay in touch with the Good Book Club! They’re coming back next liturgical year: www.goodbookclub.org.

Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries and is part of the Good Book Club. This week’s Good Book Club scripture readings: Acts 21:27—Acts 27:12 Reflection author This week’s reflection comes from The Rev. Canon Dr. Michael Barlowe, Executive Officer of General Convention and Secretary of the Domestic and Foreign Missionary Society. The Rev. Canon Michael Barlowe was appointed executive officer of the General Convention of the Episcopal Church in December 2012 by Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori and the Rev. Gay Clark Jennings, president of the House of Deputies. Canon Barlowe, who was the Diocese of California’s canon to the ordinary from 2006-2012, was, before his appointment as executive officer, an elected member of Executive Council and a deputy to General Convention from the Diocese of California. Interview We’re delighted to welcome to the podcast Betsy Ashton. Betsy Ashton is a portrait artist based in New York City. Betsy has had an interesting career both in and out of the art world, and last year decided to stop taking commissioned portrait jobs so she could focus on telling the stories of immigrants and refugees through her work. The first ten of these portraits that make up Betsy’s exhibit Portraits of Immigrants: Unknown Faces, Untold Stories opens May 17th in New York City as part of the Long Island City Arts Open Festival.The first full exhibition of all 18 Portraits of Immigrants will open in Saint Thomas Church Fifth Avenue next January, and then the exhibition is going on the road. -------------------------------- Get ready for World Refugee Day! Every year, World Refugee Day is observed on June 20. This is an important day to celebrate the strength, resilience, and contributions of refugees to communities all over the world - and for us to deepen our commitment to the work of welcome and refugee resettlement. This year EMM will release a number of resources: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/worldrefugeeday. We hope you’ll participate in or organize something to celebrate the day! It could be a small gathering, including Prayers of the People for Refugees and Displaced Persons in your Sunday worship, taking up a special Refugee Sunday collection to support EMM, host a film viewing, and so much more! One thing you could do for World Refugee Day is invite others to join in the work of welcome by making a donation to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all are put to use to welcome our newest neighbors. Visit www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. And support refugee artists, musicians, and entrepreneurs! Like our theme song composer, Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at www.abrahammwindamusic.com.

Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries and is part of the Good Book Club. This week’s Good Book Club scripture readings: Acts 16:16-Acts 21:26 Reflection author This week’s reflection comes from The Rev. Gay Clark Jennings., president of the House of Deputies.The Rev. Gay Clark Jennings was elected president of the House of Deputies by her peers at the 77th General Convention of the Episcopal Church in 2012, and at the 78th General Convention in 2015, she was reelected by acclimation. She is the first ordained woman to hold the position. As president, she is committed to fostering a new generation of leaders in the Episcopal Church and encouraging the church’s work for justice through the actions of General Convention and the work of Episcopalians throughout the church. She works closely with the elected and appointed leaders who serve the church between conventions, with more than 850 members of the House of Deputies, and with the presiding bishop and other church leaders. Interview We’re delighted to welcome to the podcast Tara Dhungana. Tara lives in Columbus, Ohio with his wife Menuake (a full time nursing student) and 2 small children. Tara works for Columbus Refugee and IMmigration Services managing the ESL and employment program, helping refugees gain employment and self-sufficiency as soon as possible. Tara also owns a restaurant and works in real estate. Tara became a US citizen in December 2017. Get ready for World Refugee Day! Every year, World Refugee Day is observed on June 20. This is an important day to celebrate the strength, resilience, and contributions of refugees to communities all over the world - and for us to deepen our commitment to the work of welcome and refugee resettlement. This year EMM will release a number of resources: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/worldrefugeeday. We hope you’ll participate in or organize something to celebrate the day! It could be a small gathering, including Prayers of the People for Refugees and Displaced Persons in your Sunday worship, taking up a special Refugee Sunday collection to support EMM, host a film viewing, and so much more! One thing you could do for World Refugee Day is invite others to join in the work of welcome by making a donation to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all are put to use to welcome our newest neighbors. Visit www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. And support refugee artists, musicians, and entrepreneurs! Like our theme song composer, Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at www.abrahammwindamusic.com. -------------------------------- Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries and is part of the Good Book Club.

Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries and is part of the Good Book Club. This week’s Good Book Club scripture readings: Acts 10:17-Acts 13:12. Reflection author This week’s reflection author is Julia Ayala Harris. Julia serves on the Executive Council of The Episcopal Church, served on the Task Force for Reimagining the Episcopal Church (TREC), and is on the Diocese of Oklahoma Episcopal Church Women (ECW) Board. Learn more about Julia on our blog this week - www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog. You can find Julia on Twitter @ayala_harris. On today’s episode, we continue our conversation with Antigona Mehani. We encourage you to go back in your podcast feed and listen to “Once Upon a Time” for background on Antigona’s native Kosovo, and “A Home for All of Us” for the first part of our conversation. Get ready for World Refugee Day! Every year, World Refugee Day is observed on June 20. This is an important day to celebrate the strength, resilience, and contributions of refugees to communities all over the world - and for us to deepen our commitment to the work of welcome and refugee resettlement. This year EMM will release a number of resources: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/worldrefugeeday. We hope you’ll participate in or organize something to celebrate the day! It could be a small gathering, including Prayers of the People for Refugees and Displaced Persons in your Sunday worship, taking up a special Refugee Sunday collection to support EMM, host a film viewing, and so much more! One thing you could do for World Refugee Day is invite others to join in the work of welcome by making a donation to Episcopal Migration Ministries. No gift is too small, and all are put to use to welcome our newest neighbors. Visit www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. And support refugee artists, musicians, and entrepreneurs! Like our theme song composer, Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at www.abrahammwindamusic.com. -------------------------------- Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries and is part of the Good Book Club. Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees Good Book Club: www.goodbookclub.org, www.facebook.com/thegoodbookclub

Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries and is part of the Good Book Club. This week’s Good Book Club scripture readings: Acts 7:1 - Acts 10:16 Reflection author This week’s reflection author is The Rev. Christopher Bishop, Rector of St. Martin’s Church in the Episcopal Diocese of Pennsylvania and Founder and President of Stand with Iraqi Christians. We hope you enjoy this week’s reflection. On today’s episode, we interview Antigona Mehani, who is originally from Kosovo and came to the United States as a child. Support EMM and be a voice of welcome for newly arrived refugees through a virtual gift for friends or family. Show your support to our new neighbors with a tax-deductible gift that provides security and comfort during the first few months of transition. Order online: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/gifts-for- welcome Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at www.abrahammwindamusic.com -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries and is part of the Good Book Club. Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees Good Book Club: www.goodbookclub.org, www.facebook.com/thegoodbookclub

Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries and is part of the Good Book Club. This week’s Good Book Club scripture readings: Acts 4:23 - Acts 6 Reflection author This week’s reflection author is The Rev. Canon Stephanie Spellers. Canon Spellers serves as the Presiding Bishop’s Canon for Evangelism, Reconciliation and Creation, helping Episcopalians to follow Jesus and foster loving, life-giving and liberating relationships with God, each other and the earth. We hope you enjoy this week’s reflection. On today’s episode, we provide background on Kosovo in connection to refugees in advance of next week’s episode. Information comes from Encyclopedia Britannica: https://www.britannica.com/place/Kosovo Support EMM and be a voice of welcome for newly arrived refugees through a virtual gift for friends or family. Show your support to our new neighbors with a tax-deductible gift that provides security and comfort during the first few months of transition. Order online: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/gifts-for-welcome Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at www.abrahammwindamusic.com -------------------------------- Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries and is part of the Good Book Club. Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees Good Book Club: www.goodbookclub.org, www.facebook.com/thegoodbookclub

Happy Easter! Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries and is part of the Good Book Club. This week’s Good Book Club scripture readings: Acts 1:1-Acts 4:22 Reflection author This week’s reflection author is The Rev. Canon Jason Lewis, the Canon for Congregational Vitality in the Diocese of Kentucky. Canon Jason serves chairs the Department of Mission and Evangelism and collaborates with congregational leadership to empower and sustain ongoing and thriving ministry that connects with urban neighborhoods, rural towns, and cities throughout the western half of Kentucky. He has a passion for walking alongside congregations through strategic planning and intentional ministry development. Learn more about Canon Jason and read his reflection on our blog (www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog). Interview guest We are grateful to Jacqueline Kifuko for joining us today as our interview guest. Jackie is originally from Uganda, but now lives in Columbus, Ohio, where she serves as the Refugee Community Organizer for Community Refugee & Immigration Services (http://cris-ohio.org/). Thank you, Jackie, for joining us! Support EMM This Easter, we invite you to celebrate EMM’s ministry of bringing hope and new life to refugees by making a donation! No gift is too small, and all are put to use to welcome our newest neighbors. Visit www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 51555. If you make a gift, tell us why! Around St. Patrick’s Day, a supporter of EMM posted on Facebook that she was making a donation to EMM in honor of her Irish immigrant ancestors, who faced great hardship and discrimination when they were newcomers to this country. Her story illustrated just how much EMM’s work connects to the American story, and to so many of our own individual family stories. Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at www.abrahammwindamusic.com -------------------------------- Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries and is part of the Good Book Club. Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees Good Book Club: www.goodbookclub.org, www.facebook.com/thegoodbookclub

Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries and is part of the Good Book Club. This Holy Week we are bringing you this special bonus episode to share a new song from Abraham Mwinda Ikando and a poignant interview with Emily Jones, the immigration attorney at Kentucky Refugee Ministries in Lexington. This episode added a new dimension to our Holy Week journey, and we hope it deepens your walk with Christ. For those around the world who live in fear, who suffer, whose homes have been stripped from them - our hearts cry out. We see you, we remember you, we pray and lift our voices for you. May we all move forward in faith that an Easter moment will dawn. “Hold On” by Abraham Mwinda Ikando He’s heard of a place better than this Free from hate and poverty Children play and live in peace No gunshots flying in the streets She wakes up every morning, falls to her knees Prays to God, “Please make the pain freeze,” Save her from the misery Change her reality So, hold on, and be strong, and never give up hope Someday you’ll get to go home, You’ll get to go home So, hold on, and be strong, and never give up hope Someday you’ll get to go home, You’ll get to go home Support EMM This Holy Week, we invite you to support refugees through a donation to EMM. Join us as we welcome our newest neighbors, teach about welcome, and speak out in support of refugee resettlement. Visit www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/give or text HOMETOWN to 91999. ------------------------------- Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries and is part of the Good Book Club. Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at www.abrahammwindamusic.com Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees Good Book Club: www.goodbookclub.org, www.facebook.com/thegoodbookclub

This is a special bonus episode featuring an action alert from Lacy Broemel, Refugee and Immigration Policy Advisor for the Office of Government Relations for the Episcopal Church. Stay informed and sign up for action alerts through the Episcopal Public Policy Network at: http://advocacy.episcopalchurch.org

Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries and is part of the Good Book Club. This week’s Good Book Club scripture readings: Luke 22:47 through the end of Luke’s Gospel. This week’s reflection author is a man who perhaps needs no introduction. We are honored to welcome The Most Rev. Michael Bruce Curry, Presiding Bishop of The Episcopal Church, to the podcast to offer the reflection for Palm Sunday. Thank you, Bishop Curry, for joining us. On today’s episode, we provide background on Uganda and address the country’s current posture toward refugees. Information comes from the Library of Congress Uganda country study and from the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) landing pages on the Summit on Refugees & Migrants, the New York Declaration, and the Comprehensive Refugee Response Framework. Additional information: US military ending role in hunt for elusive African warlord Joseph Kony: https://www.cnn.com/2017/05/02/politics/us-military-quits-hunt-joseph-kony/index.html Germany Stands by its Commitment in the Refugee Crisis:https://www.huffingtonpost.com/peter-wittig-/germany-stands-by-its-com_b_12064930.html Canada’s 2016 record high level of resettlement praised by UNHCR:http://www.unhcr.org/en-us/news/press/2017/4/58fe15464/canadas-2016-record-high-level-resettlement-praised-unhcr.html Special thanks to Whit Whitaker for offering his vocal talents for today’s episode. His soulful singing of the hymn Precious Lord is a moving complement to the Presiding Bishop’s reflection. Learn more about Whit Whitaker on our blog, www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog. Support EMM and be a voice of welcome for newly arrived refugees through a virtual gift for friends or family. Show your support to our new neighbors with a tax-deductible gift that provides security and comfort during the first few months of transition. Order online: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/gifts-for-welcome Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at www.abrahammwindamusic.com -------------------------------- Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries and is part of the Good Book Club. Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees Good Book Club: www.goodbookclub.org, www.facebook.com/thegoodbookclub

Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries and is part of the Good Book Club. This week’s Good Book Club scripture readings: Luke 18:18-Luke 22:46 On this week’s episode, we reflect on scripture, discuss the history of Afghanistan and the contributing factors that have caused Afghans to resettle in the United States, and interview Abdul Saboor. Abdul came to the United States from his native country of Afghanistan in 2014 through the SIV program. Information about Afghanistan is largely from the Center for Applied Linguistics Backgrounder on Afghans and PBS NewHour HistoricalTimeline on Afghanistan. http://www.culturalorientation.net/learning/backgrounders https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/asia-jan-june11-timeline-afghanistan Upcoming Event! EMM is offering our Love God, Love Neighbor training in Atlanta, GA May 2-4, 2018. www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/lgln Support EMM and be a voice of welcome for newly arrived refugees through a virtual gift for friends or family. Show your support to our new neighbors with a tax-deductible gift that provides security and comfort during the first few months of transition. Order online: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/gifts-for-welcome Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at www.abrahammwindamusic.com -------------------------------- Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries and is part of the Good Book Club. Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees Good Book Club: www.goodbookclub.org, www.facebook.com/thegoodbookclub

Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries and is part of the Good Book Club. This week’s Good Book Club scripture readings: Luke 15:1-Luke 18:17 On this week’s episode, we reflect on scripture, learn about the history of the modern United States Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP), and interview Lacy Broemel, Refugee and Immigration Policy Advisor in the Office of Government Relations for the Episcopal Church. Reflection author: The Rev’d Canon E. Mark Stevenson is the Director of Episcopal Migration Ministries, and a member of the staff of the Presiding Bishop of The Episcopal Church. As Director he leads a dedicated team in executing a national program of refugee resettlement and related ministries in partnership with the U.S. government, affiliated local resettlement programs, and a developing network of communities and ecumenical organizations across the country. Previously, he served as Domestic Poverty Missioner for The Episcopal Church, coordinating church-wide efforts in ministries of poverty alleviation. Prior to beginning his work on the denominational staff, Canon Stevenson served as Canon to the Ordinary in the Episcopal Diocese of Louisiana from August 2005 until September 2013. Following hurricane Katrina, Canon Stevenson worked closely with the Diocese of Louisiana as well as local, regional, national and international leaders and groups to put into place the processes for effective relief ministry. Since receiving his Master of Divinity degree from Nashotah House Seminary in 2000, Canon Stevenson has served as Rector in two parishes: the Church of the Annunciation in the heart of New Orleans, and the Church of the Good Shepherd in Maitland, Florida. During his time at both churches, his focus was on developing ministries with youth and revitalizing ministries of stewardship, Christian education and community outreach. Canon Stevenson and his wife, Joy, currently reside in Hamilton, New Jersey. Upcoming Event! EMM is offering our Love God, Love Neighbor training in Atlanta, GA May 2-4, 2018. www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/lgln Support EMM and be a voice of welcome for newly arrived refugees through a virtual gift for friends or family. Show your support to our new neighbors with a tax-deductible gift that provides security and comfort during the first few months of transition. Order online: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/gifts-for-welcome Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at www.abrahammwindamusic.com -------------------------------- Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries and is part of the Good Book Club. Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees Good Book Club: www.goodbookclub.org, www.facebook.com/thegoodbookclub

Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries and is part of the Good Book Club. This week’s Good Book Club scripture readings: Luke 11:14-Luke 14 We don’t have a scripture reflection on the podcast this week, but that gives us an opportunity to include you in Hometown! We have a few openings for reflection authors – this week, week 6 and week 15 - which is Pentecost Sunday! Would you author a reflection for us? Visit us on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter and share your reflection – either in comments on our posts or by direct message! We may even end up featuring you on our blog! If you’re interested - reach out to us! We’d love to hear your story about how your faith calls you to welcome refugees. On this week’s episode, we continue our conversation with The Rev. Jean Baptiste Ntagengwa, Th.D., on his life, ministry, his work with refugees and asylum-seekers, and the meaning of “home.” Jean Baptiste is the author of “Overcoming Cycles of Violence in Rwanda: Ethical Leadership and Ethnic Justice.” We encourage you to check out last week’s episode, when we spoke with Jean Baptiste about his book and the history of Rwanda. Learn more about Jean Baptiste at www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog. Upcoming Event! EMM is offering our Love God, Love Neighbor training in Atlanta, GA May 2-4, 2018. www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/lgln Support EMM and be a voice of welcome for newly arrived refugees through a virtual gift for friends or family. Show your support to our new neighbors with a tax-deductible gift that provides security and comfort during the first few months of transition. Order online: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/gifts-for-welcome Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at www.abrahammwindamusic.com -------------------------------- Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries and is part of the Good Book Club. Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees Good Book Club: www.goodbookclub.org, www.facebook.com/thegoodbookclub

Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries and is part of the Good Book Club. This week’s Good Book Club scripture readings: Luke 8 - Luke 11:13 On this week’s episode, we reflect on scripture and then learn about the history of Rwanda, where our reflection author was born. Reflection author: The Rev. Jean Baptiste Ntagengwa is currently Director of Transition Ministry in the Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts, though he spent his early years in Rwanda, where much of his extended family still lives. He was ordained to the priesthood in the Anglican Church after completing his his Bachelor of Divinity degree at St. Paul’s United Theological College in Limuru, Kenya. In 1999, he moved to Boston, where he completed his master’s degree in theological studies at Harvard Divinity School in 2001 and his doctorate in Ethics and Missions at Boston University in 2008. He is the author of “Overcoming Cycles of Violence in Rwanda: Ethical Leadership and Ethnic Justice.” You can learn more about Jean Baptiste in the blog post we are releasing with this episode, at www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/blog. For further reading on Rwanda, we recommend: From War to Genocide: Criminal Politics in Rwanda, 1990–1994 by André Guichaoua, Translated by Don E. Webster Rwanda: From Genocide to Precarious Peace by Susan Thomson will be released on April 24, 2018. Upcoming Event! EMM is offering our Love God, Love Neighbor training in Atlanta, GA May 2-4, 2018. www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/lgln Support EMM and be a voice of welcome for newly arrived refugees through a virtual gift for friends or family. Show your support to our new neighbors with a tax-deductible gift that provides security and comfort during the first few months of transition. Order online: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/gifts-for-welcome Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at www.abrahammwindamusic.com -------------------------------- Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries and is part of the Good Book Club. Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees Good Book Club: www.goodbookclub.org, www.facebook.com/thegoodbookclub

Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries and is part of the Good Book Club. This week’s Good Book Club scripture readings: Luke 4:14 - Luke 7 Welcome to Episode 2 of Hometown! On this episode, we reflect on scripture, delve deeper into the global refugee crisis and why resettlement is a life-saving solution, and interview our first guest - our theme song composer, Abraham Mwinda Ikando! Information on resettlement and the United States Refugee Admissions Program is from The UN Refugee Agency: www.unhcr.org The US Dept of State, Bureau for Population, Refugees, and Migration: https://www.state.gov/j/prm/about/index.htm The US Dept of Health and Human Services Office of Refugee Resettlement: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/orr/refugees The US Dept of Homeland Security: https://www.uscis.gov/refugeescreening Today’s interview was with Abraham Mwinda Ikando, who is also our theme song composer! Find his music at www.abrahammwindamusic.com and follow him on Instagram @mwindagram Upcoming Event! EMM is offering our Love God, Love Neighbor training in Atlanta, GA May 2-4, 2018. www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/lgln ------------------------------------------------- Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries and is part of the Good Book Club. Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees Good Book Club: www.goodbookclub.org, www.facebook.com/thegoodbookclub

Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries and is part of the Good Book Club. This week’s Good Book Club scripture readings: Luke 1- Luke 4:13 Welcome to Hometown! On the debut episode, we introduce what the podcast is all about, reflect on scripture together, and learn about the global refugee crisis and the specific refugee crisis in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Reflection author: The Rev. Laurie Brock, rector of the Episcopal Church of St. Michael the Archangel in the Diocese of Lexington (Kentucky). Mother Laurie is co-author of Where God Hides Holiness, and is the author of the forthcoming book Horses Speak of God: How Horses Can Teach Us to Listen and Be Transformed, available for pre-order on Amazon.com. She blogs at www.revlauriebrock.com. Information on the global refugee crisis is largely from the UNHCR Global Trends report: http://www.unhcr.org/globaltrends2016/ Information about the Congolese refugee crisis is largely from the Center for Applied Linguistics Backgrounder on Refugee from the Democratic Republic of Congo: http://www.culturalorientation.net/learning/populations/congolese-refugees For further reading on the DRC, we recommend: Dancing in the Glory of Monsters: The Collapse of the Congo and the Great War of Africa by Jason Stearns King Leopold’s Ghost: A Story of Greed, Terror, and Heroism in Colonial Africa by Adam Hochschild Upcoming Event! EMM is offering our Love God, Love Neighbor training in Atlanta, GA May 2-4, 2018. www.episcopalmigrationministries.org/lgln Our theme song was composed and recorded by Abraham Mwinda Ikando. Find his music at www.abrahammwindamusic.com ------------------------------------------------- Hometown is a podcast from Episcopal Migration Ministries and is part of the Good Book Club. Episcopal Migration Ministries: www.episcopalmigrationministries.org, www.facebook.com/emmrefugees, Twitter & Instagram, @emmrefugees Good Book Club: www.goodbookclub.org, www.facebook.com/thegoodbookclub

Join Allison Duvall and Kendall Martin of Episcopal Migration Ministries, the refugee resettlement ministry of the Episcopal Church, for an introduction to "HomeTown," a podcast featuring voices from across the US, the Episcopal Church, and the New American community.