Neighbors in Need
by Brenda Hathaway and Patti Callahan, Parishioners of St Luke's in the Meadow Episcopal Church

Unexpected blessings have been bestowed on our parish family by the arrival of a family to our area. Although not members of St. Luke's, they have taught many of us about love, courage, and hope in the face of great adversity. Getting to know them and under-standing their situation we have experienced a love our Lord Jesus commanded of us, A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. John 13:34

Some of you have met the family. They have attended several of our church functions including Christmas Eve service, Shrove Tuesday supper, and the "Rock 'n Roll" evening among others. You have seen a mother and a father and three beautiful children. Some of you know their story; many of you do not.

This family first came to our attention one day late last fall when the mother and children came to our church to pray. This family, although Muslim rather than Christian, recognizes that we all worship one God. The family put their trust in God and prayer when it seemed everything was falling apart around them. You see, they are refugees from the country of Iraq. The parents had assisted the American troops there which put the family in grave danger from certain factions. The mother and children fled the country with very little except their clothes and the dream of safety and a better future in this country. Our government provides limited assistance to individuals and families in this situation. They help with rent and other expenses, but only for a short while. The mother speaks English somewhat fluently and has tried desperately to find employment (she was a professor in her homeland). The children are enrolled in elementary school working hard in their various subjects while learning our language. The father was able to join his family about three months ago. Since then, they have done their best to navigate various social agencies and employment opportunities in order to survive. We are fortunate to have been able to provide some assistance.

Can you imagine leaving your country, your family, most of your possessions, and everything familiar to try to make your way in a country where everything is different? Can you imagine not being familiar with language and customs, but trying desperately to understand so that perhaps you can find a job, any job, to pay the rent and put food on the table?

Can you imagine comforting your children when they cry because they miss their cousins and because they get teased in school for being different? If only the teasers knew and understood the scripture, Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it. Hebrews 13:2.

Those of us who have interacted with the family are amazed at their spirit and perseverance. Their apartment is substandard, but they have made a home. They have no transportation other than rides they are able to get from neighbors and some members of our parish family. They have medical and dental needs.

This is a loving family with parents who want to work hard and make their way and children who desire an education and a bright future. They are very appreciative of the assistance they have received and speak of the generosity of American people, but their needs are still great. The mother has found part-time employment and there is a car being repaired and donated. The father is applying for any job for which he is qualified. Until this lovely family is gainfully employed and in suitable housing and as long as they are our neighbors and friends we will continue to be blessed by their presence in our lives.