EMBRACE is an inter-church organisation, which began as a support group for refugees and people seeking asylum , but we now see our main role as one of encouraging church communities to make this a more welcoming place for all people from minority ethnic backgrounds.
It began informally in 2001 as individuals from different denominations became increasingly concerned about the difficulties facing refugees and people seeking asylum in this country. They wanted to do more than talk and were committed to finding a way of responding in a Gospel manner to the new strangers in our midst. Continue reading ‘History’
EMBRACE is a group of Christians who have come together to promote a positive response to minority ethnic people in Northern Ireland. We seek to equip the church to fulfil its call to welcome the stranger, by providing information, training, resource materials and channels for practical help.
EMBRACE seeks to:
- Reflect gospel values of compassion, hospitality and justice
- Raise awareness and provide information, resources and training
- Respond to those in need by acting as a channel for voluntary assistance
- Support people by human rights and welfare advocacy
- Network with relevant agencies and groups
- Make informed responses on issues of public policy
EMBRACE works in partnership with Edgehill Theological College Reconciliation and Integration Partnership Project. This project is funded in part by the European Regional Development Fund under the Peace III Programme.
Edgehill Reconciliation Programme Special EU Programmes
For 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, I needed clothes and you clothed me. I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me. Matthew 25: 35-36
EMBRACE facilitates others in responding to people who have practical needs. The group does not help people directly but networks with other specialist groups such as the Simon Community, Homeplus, the Welcome Organisation, the Belfast-based Refugee Action Group (RAG) and the Northern Ireland Community of Refugees and Asylum Seekers (NICRAS).