Refugee Ministry

We hear the words refugee and asylum seeker used interchangeably, but these words apply to different stages of the immigration process. Refugees are individuals who are outside their home country afraid of likely persecution of death if sent back to that country because of their religion, race, nationality, political opinion or membership in a social group, and whose government is unwilling or unable to protect them. Asylum seekers are refugees who are asking a government to recognize them as a refugee and the government has yet to make a decision. Regardless of their specific status, Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA) is responsible for coordinating the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) humanitarian response to and advocacy on behalf of refugees, asylum seekers and other forced migrants.

What We Do

PDA partners with Mid Councils and Congregations

1. Information and Referral
   1. PDA connects Presbyterians to non-profit organizations in the U.S. serving refugees and asylum seekers. PDA guides Presbyterians regarding locations of refugee resettlement, how churches can help, and how the U.S. refugee and immigration system works.
2. Educational and Worship Resources
   1. PDA creates and shares educational resources for congregational use.
3. Refugee Ministry Consultation and Guidance
   1. PDA provides technical assistance and guidance through individual phone consultations, conference calls or webinars, and face-to-face local and regional gatherings.
4. Ministries of Presence
   1. PDA, along with members of the National Response Team (NRT) offers technical, emotional and spiritual support to local ministries and their volunteers.
5. Financial Support
   1. PDA supports local congregations and task forces through mid councils who may request an initial grant to assist in responding to a new or emergency refugee situation. Special project grants are also available for longer-term responses.