First Worldwide Refugee Sabbath

Evelyne Studer of the DSV Women's Ministries Team gave a presentation on the Refugee Sabbath and spoke about refugees in the Bible, Jesus being one of them. There are many reasons why people have to leave everything behind and flee. Now refugees from Syria, Afghanistan and many other countries are filling Europe.
In an interview Egzon Shala told how he had to flee from Kosovo at the age of 9. In his young life he experienced many new starts in different places, and he finally found safety, comfort, security in his Christian faith. He is now living in Thun, Switzerland, with his wife and two-year-old son and is employed in a Refugee Centre. At the same time he is pursuing a degree as a specialist on migration and is the director of a theological Bible school for migrants. In these functions he helps people who have to go through similar experiences today.
Andrea Grossen spoke about her experience with refugee women she hosts in her house. She experiences it as challenging, but also very rewarding. These people have other customs and sometimes a different understanding about everyday things and situations. But on the other hand they are very hospitable, and sometimes even invite her for supper after a long and tiring day. She says it is a blessing for her and her family to have these women around.
Three children aged 10-13 told about their experiences with refugee children at school, how differently they react to every day situations, but also what can be learned from them.
Evelyne Studer also explained different ADRA projects, one of them called 'Children alone on their way'. Hundreds of children are on their way alone, without parents or relatives.
We can close our eyes, or try to help. We should, however, avoid falling prey to a helper syndrome. Refugees are often very resourceful. We should treat them with respect, tolerance and understanding. They are praised for their capability of adapting to new situations. Many are very clever, intelligent and extremely grateful. We will be surprised how much our lives will be enriched through our contacts with these people.
According to a report by Denise Hochstrasser