“What goes on in North America is just a tiny fraction of what goes on in the refugee world.” James Grunau knows what he is talking about. He has spent many years welcoming refugee claimants to Metro Vancouver, while also…
Almost 80 million asylum seekers, refugees and internally displaced people are seeking new homes in our world today, a reality requiring urgent conversation and action. A timely new book is now available to help us reimagine personal, national and international…
James Grunau and Loren Balisky have created thriving communities locally (Journey Home and Kinbrace), which share housing – and lives – with refugee claimants. Last week they travelled to Ottawa to appear before the Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration,…
James Grunau sent an email to his partner churches last week regarding the desperate housing situation for many newly arriving refugee claimant families. Grunau runs Journey Home, which works with refugee claimants. He says the church community has already begun…
Journey Home Community has been a leader in welcoming refugees to Metro Vancouver over the past decade or so (see here, here and here). Its commitment has again been made clear in a recent letter of concern to the Liberal…
Easter approaches, and with it much beautiful music. This year, Bach’s St. Matthew Passion must surely be the most eagerly awaited by those who appreciate sacred/classical music. The Vancouver Bach Choir, with help from the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, will present…
Churches and other public buildings may be necessary to house refugees in the short-term if Canada is to achieve its goal of bringing 25,000 refugees into the country. Chris Friesen, director of settlement services for Immigrant Services Society of BC…
Local Christians have already demonstrated in numerous ways how much they care about the turmoil in the Middle East and the resulting refugee crisis. Three upcoming events will allow churches and Christians to gain practical insights on how to support…
Journey Home Community is making a real impact in Metro Vancouver, both through its work with refugees and as the host of Ride for Refuge in British Columbia. Refugee work Journey Home began life modestly, but the 10th anniversary party celebrated…
Mayor Gregor Robertson recognized the desire of local citizens to help refugees by calling a public meeting at city hall September 8. He said: “There have been lot of calls to city hall about what people could do to help…