Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and other faiths gathered to learn about the humanitarian crisis facing refugees around the world. The particular focus was how to help refugees that settle in Canberra. The event was hosted at the LDS Lyneham Chapel, Canberra, and was attended by other religious and community leaders.
Mrs. Eman Al-Hashim, Second Secretary from the Jordanian Embassy, emphasized the importance of uniting different faiths to assist those who are in need. She related how in her homeland of Jordan people from diverse cultural and religious origins work together to provide food, water, shelter, medical care and education to 1.4 million refugees.
Ms. Katrina Burgess, from Migrant and Refugee Settlement Services ACT, informed attendees of the many services that are coordinated by her agency and its volunteers. Examples included helping refugees to learn English, teaching them how to utilise public transport, tutoring refugee children or just being a friend.
These kinds of services resemble those that were portrayed in the ‘I Was a Stranger’ initiative recently launched by the Church. Canberra Church leader President Glen K. O'Grady spoke on the Church's extensive humanitarian programs and the example of Jesus Christ as one who served all.
Participants in the event had the opportunity to communicate messages of support that will be sent to refugee children in Canberra and Jordan over the coming months.
The Church also has a Humanitarian Aid Fund that members can donate to through the LDS Charities website. One hundred percent of donations go towards helping those in need.