Primate Invites Churches to Mark a Day of Prayer and Welcome
The Primate of the Anglican Church of Canada, Archbishop Shane Parker, is inviting dioceses and parishes across the country to observe a Refugee Sunday at a time of their choosing this year.
In a pastoral letter issued on May 26, 2026, Archbishop Parker points to the growing global refugee crisis, as well as recent cuts to immigration and refugee programs in Canada, as reasons for renewed prayer, awareness, and action. He writes that refugee sponsorship has long been a transformative ministry within the Anglican Church of Canada, both for newcomers and for the communities that welcome them. The invitation comes in partnership with Alongside Hope, whose Refugee Network has prepared worship and educational resources to help churches mark the occasion.
Among the available materials are:
· Scripture readings and prayers centred on welcoming the stranger
· Liturgical resources and intercessions
· Music suggestions and dramatic readings
· Children’s ministry resources focused on conflict, migration, and compassion
The worship resource package opens with the reminder from Hebrews 13:2:
“Don’t forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it.”
Parishes are encouraged to adapt the materials for use in Sunday worship, educational events, or parish conversations about refugee sponsorship and hospitality.
DOWNLOADS
Archbishop Shane’s Pastoral Letter
Resource Links
· Alongside Hope Refugee Sunday Resource Page
· Download the Worship Resources (PDF)
https://www.anglican.ca/news/primate-invites-house-of-bishops-to-observe-a-refugee-sunday/