Some 17 miles from the Kairos Church building is a community of refugees located in the community of Clarkston. Since the 1990’s approximately 60,000 of God’s children have been resettled here fleeing political, religious and ethnic persecution. These families have come from many different countries, speak many different languages and each bring with them stories of unimaginable suffering. Left behind are homes, family members, jobs and hopes and dreams for a future.
We learned that the process of being designated a refugee and being resettled in a safe place is complex, lengthy and filled with angst. An average of 7 years living in a refugee camp is required before an opportunity for resettlement in another country is offered.
This past weekend a group of adults and children from Kairos had the experience of visiting this community of refugees. The organization, Friends of Refugees, gave us a tour of their facility; sharing ways they are seeking to provide an abundant life in a flourishing community for these displaced people. The gift shop with the beautiful creations of the Refugee Sewing Society were on display during our tour, as were classrooms where young children learn and play while parents are taking classes to learn a new language and gain skills that will allow them self-sufficiency. There was a computer lab dedicated to the process of finding and applying for jobs, and the stories of new businesses being created with the help of mentors. Coffee was provided by Refuge Coffee Company, an example of one of these businesses. Pregnancy and birth care are also a part of this support system. Where there are needs in this community, assistance has been provided.
The members of the Kairos community were blessed with the opportunity to interact with some of the children in the Clarkston community. There was a large parachute for play, kicking balls, games of chase, a pin the nose on the snowman game, and various crafts. There were no boundaries, just the people from many different parts of the world enjoying being together and being reminded how very much alike we all are.
– Bonnie Wisdom