We have some exciting news to share with you regarding some developments about our Presbytery’s two Syrian Refugee sponsorship applications!
Pending completion of their security and background checks, both Ms. Daghistani and the Nahhs family could arrive here before mid-year. Ms. Daghistani will be settling Brockville, while Tamy, Hiba, Joud, Waled and Dalal will be living in Kemptville. Among these talented and accomplished people, we have an ESL teacher, a pharmacist, an engineer and two former educators.
The Presbytery’s Refugee Sub-committee has raised $22,853.75 to date to support these refugees. We need to raise approximately $20,000 more to ensure we have sufficient funds to support the refugees during their first twelve months in Canada. We encourage congregations to please continue their efforts to fundraise in the next few months. Every effort, small or large alike will help us reach our fundraising goal!
We do not have a planned fundraising programme for 2017 – yet – we hope to have one or two events once we find our transition opportunities in the next few months. In the meantime, we invite you to consider giving an “extra mile gift” through your envelope, clearly noting that the gift is for the, Refugee Fund.
The Presbytery has not asked for an allocation from the congregations, leaving it to each congregation to respond as each is able and willing. On behalf of our Kirk Session and the Presbytery, I thank you for your generosity, as you are able and willing.
Thank you for your generosity as we offer these people a chance for a new life in Canada!
Blessings and Shalom!
Rev. Ian K. Johnston