Statement on refugees and asylum seekers in Stratford

As we witness the agitation about refugees, asylum seekers and immigrants which is being stirred up nationally, we consider ourselves blessed that Stratford-upon-Avon, the town we serve, has shown itself to be a kind and compassionate place.

Refugees have been settling in our town for the past ten years. Existing residents have made them welcome and supported them – acting as good neighbours, helping them to find the services they need, supporting them as they seek to improve their English, offering them friendship. As individual churches we too have sought to help those who have settled among us.

We can do no other. The Bible tells us in many places to care for the stranger and the sojourner. In one of his best-known parables – the Good Samaritan – Jesus tells us to help everyone who needs our aid – not just family and friends but also strangers and foreigners.

We have also listened to the stories of those who have come among us as refugees. We know they mourn for the land from which they have been driven by war and violence, as we would mourn if we were forced to flee to another country. We also know that they want to contribute to their new home and community, to give back to the place that has been kind and welcomed them.

Sadly, some people are hostile to our new friends and this is expressed widely in the media. They portray refugees as unworthy of help, as people seeking to take our jobs and homes. For people who are suffering from unemployment or low wages, from poor housing or difficult neighbourhoods, this can seem a plausible reason for the problems they face. Our challenge as churches is to help these as well – to make them feel a valued and welcomed part of our community.

Many people in Stratford-upon-Avon have shown their compassion for refugees. Others have shown their willingness to help others: those facing poverty, ill health or mental strains. All are entitled to our support and kindness. As churches we will continue to seek ways to help all those in our local community. As churches we will encourage everyone in our town to treat others with kindness and compassion.

January 2026