By Pastor Jeff Davies

I think most families at Cordova Neighborhood are aware that we host an Arabic Alliance Church on Sunday afternoons. What most do not know, however, is that in the last several months, doors have opened to unprecedented ministry among Arabs in the Sacramento area. God is bringing them to our very doorstep.

The war in Iraq has displaced many families. Largely destitute and hurting, these refugees seek shelter all over the world. Greater Sacramento is receiving many. The Arabic Church is in contact with over fifty Iraqi families, with around four more coming each month. These are hundreds of people desperate for love and hope.

To share God’s love in a practical way , Pastor Raed and his congregation are providing aid and services to the refugees as they adjust to American life. The church is receiving donations to outfit apartments with basic furniture. Job training is given in addition to rides for medical or DMV appointments. These families are thrilled just to receive a visit, as they often are almost completely isolated.

The Arabic Church has been desperately striving to keep pace with the needs of so many. Plainly put, the job is too great for them alone. Other churches are beginning to respond with volunteers who spend a few hours distributing furniture or simply sitting with a family over tea. Having touched the lives of a few families in this way, I can share first-hand the impact a caring soul has on these refugees. For many it is likely the first time they have ever seen Christ embodied in his Church.

We too are privileged to have this ministry laid out before us. What an unprecedented opportunity! First of all, I would ask you to take a moment to pray for the Arabic Church and the refugees they assist. Secondly, I ask you to consider giving a few hours to deeply impact a family who has lost virtually everything they know. It truly isn’t as scary as it may sound. I bet you will be surprised at how easy and joyful it is. Below are some ways you can assist, followed by contact information for the Refugee Program Director, Aaron Steinert and Pastor Raed. You can also email me at Jeff@CNChurch.org.

Opportunities:

• Pray
• Collect furniture and/or distribute furniture to the family homes
• Interact during the Friday evening services at the learning center
• Help in one of the periodic job fairs
• Be a driver for medical or government appointments
• Visit, drink tea, and spend time in homes or the center — this is one way they especially feel loved!

Contact:

Aaron Steinert, Refugee Program Director
916 752-0973
atsteinert@gmail.com
Pastor Raed Awabdeh, Arabic Church of Sacramento
916 320-3429