In Glasgow’s east end, Lifewords specially designed Bible resources, in different languages, are bringing comfort to refugees and asylum seekers.

Parkhead Nazarene Church is located in the east end of Glasgow, UK and welcomes many refugees and asylum seekers through its doors. As part of their outreach, the church offers English lessons to around 50 people, as well as parent and toddler sessions, and a running group specifically to support local refugee communities. “Most of the people who come to our church are not Christian and are keen to learn more about our faith,” says Paul from the church. “Lifewords booklets are excellent conversation starters. Through our outreach, we hope to offer welcome in the name of Jesus, break down barriers between communities, and share about the hope we have in Christ.”

All of Lifewords resources are researched and designed with specific users in mind. Afraid to Leave, Afraid to Stay was created especially for displaced people or those seeking asylum. “Some of the booklets really resonate with our visitors,” says Paul. “Afraid to Leave, Afraid to Stay is so relevant to where many of our refugee friends find themselves. It gives voice to the anxieties that refugees and asylum seekers face, and offers hope with words from Scripture.” Written in both Arabic and English, Afraid to Leave, Afraid to Stay shares quotes from refugees and asylum seekers, integrated with stories about Jesus, and encourages readers to share their own experiences. “One woman told me that she reads it on the bus when she is going to sign on at the Home Office,” says Paul. “In the asylum system, she often feels like ‘a number’, but … she can look to a God who knows her name and is not indifferent to her troubles."

The area local to Parkhead Nazarene Church also faces growing levels of poverty and high rates of addiction, along with a prevalence of social isolation. The Arabic version of Who Cares About Me? has been a particularly popular resource. It tells the story of Jacob, a young man in danger, and seeks to share comfort and encouragement with those who are facing trouble, loneliness, fear, or change. “Many of the young Arabic-speaking mothers are some of the most socially isolated in our area, they often feel forgotten and alone, and many have found the booklet to be very moving,” says Paul. “The simple truth of the booklet, which answers its titular question with ‘God cares about you!’ is incredibly affecting. The booklet is also an encouragement to us in the ministry, to reflect God's care in our words and actions.”

Paul partners with Interserve, a Christian charity that seeks to give communities across Asia and the Arab World the opportunity to hear the gospel of Jesus Christ. Are there ways in which you or your church can get involved with welcoming refugees and those seeking asylum in your local area?