Pippa Cramer MBE

Over the last few years, I have met with many refugees and people seeking asylum around the world. Each time I have been heartbroken by the harsh realities they’ve faced: the loss of their homes whether due to climate emergencies or conflict, the loss of family members and loved ones, of lack of access to food, water and safe shelter – of the dignity that makes one human. All too often, the plight of refugees is forgotten, and they themselves are dehumanised, seen as ‘other’. We must remember that the refugee is our neighbour. Jesus himself reminds us how we are to treat refugees – how we would treat Christ himself. “I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in ... whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” Matthew 25: 35, 40. #RefugeeWeek

To end our time in the Diocese of Gloucester, we spent time meeting, praying and worshipping with different communities, and thanking God for the wonderful witness to Jesus that is evident across @GlosDioc. Many of the local community joined for a thanksgiving service @GlosCathedral, where we shared in the Eucharist, celebrated and gave thanks for the projects seen this weekend, and prayed for the future of mission and evangelism across the region. May the Diocese of Gloucester continue to be a beacon of God’s goodness in the years to come. Amen.