Faith Group Resources

Refugee Resettlement had its origins among the churches of New Zealand more than a quarter of a century ago.

Followers of many of the world's great religions are exhorted to show "hospitality to the stranger". This message has special significance for followers of Christianity. Not only is this theme reiterated in both the Old and New Testaments of the Bible but the family of Christ were also refugees in the purest sense of the 1951 Convention on the Rights of Refugees. The family possessed a genuine fear of persecution on the basis of ethnicity and religion. They were forced to flee unexpectedly across an international border, with their baby, to seek refuge and sanctuary in another country. Eventually they were able to return to their homeland (voluntary repatriation) when the political regime finally changed.

During Refugee Week each year, New Zealand faith groups are encouraged to especially remember and respond to the plight of the millions of refugees who still need the protection of the international community. Refugee Week is commemorated in New Zealand the week in which World Refugee Day (20 June) falls. The week provides an annual opportunity for faith groups to support the work of Refugee Resettlement through their prayers, voluntary involvement and financial contribution.

The Refugee Week 2007 resource pack (.pdf, 195 KB) contains suggestions of refugee- related materials for services.

More information about what help you can give is in How you can help section.