When we see images of displaced refugees around the world, we rarely think about the processes and people involved in the successful resettlement of those refugees. The hurdles of enrolling children in school, securing housing and jobs, getting them up to date on their immunizations, and securing the legal protections they need to stay in their new home...today's guest, Kathleen Cooney, knows all about these efforts as she has spearheaded Saint Thomas More's Refugee Resettlement Initiative with Assistant Chaplain, Allan Esteron, who also joins the podcast today as a co-host.
When violence erupted in Syria in 2015, the STM community responded with generosity, asking themselves, "How does the Gospel compel us to act?" Kathleen and Allan learned from the efforts of welcoming that first family to New Haven to prepare themselves and the community to welcome a second family, this one from Afghanistan, in 2021. There have been challenges, plenty of them. Yet, the refugees' resilience, determination, and faith have made the Gospel come alive for Kathleen and Allan. In addition, the astounding generosity of the STM and greater Yale/New Haven communities has reminded Kathleen and Allan that Christ is present in our midst.
As the STM community gears up to welcome a third family this Fall, the pair talks about the steps they are undertaking, from gathering volunteers and selecting interpreters to finding affordable housing. They are committed to his mission because they are committed to people, especially those most in need. And, they want you to get involved, too. Tune in to hear of the myriad of ways in which you can give of your time or talents to welcome another family to our community.
