A ministry rooted in the example of Jesus Christ that welcomes the stranger and fulfills the commitment of the U.S. Catholic bishops to protect the life and dignity of the human person. We serve and advocate for immigrants, refugees, asylees, migrants, unaccompanied children and victims of human trafficking.
"Refugees are like Jesus Christ, forced to flee. It is essential that we recognize — even in the midst of so many who are forced to flee, despite the many difficulties they face — that the Church is called to be a place of refuge and assistance, a place where God’s mercy is revealed, lived, and experienced. A place where what is truly God’s justice — not human justice — is made manifest.”
~ Pope Leo XIV, then-Bishop Robert Prevost, 2020
What we do:
Immigrant & Refugee Ministry (IRM) provides care and resources for immigrant families, and equips and empowers parishes to develop their own immigrant response programs. This ministry has launched parish Welcome Circles, hosted regional Know Your Rights trainings, immigration summits, walking pilgrimages, vigil Masses, fund collections, listening sessions and other special events in an attempt soften hearts and bring comfort to immigrant families while advocating for their needs. In addition, we continually offer weekly services and access to sacraments inside the Northwest Detention Center in Tacoma.
I'm an Immigrant
I'm a Parish/School
I Want to Help
Jesus calls us to recognize Him in the face of the migrant. “I was a stranger and you welcomed me” (Mt 25:35). Below are ways to respond to that call alongside immigrant and refugee communities in Western Washington.
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Immigrant & Refugee Ministry in Action
Join us in our mission to Welcome, Protect, Promote and Integrate by making a gift today
Contact:
Chris Koehler
Director of Missions & Immigrant Affairs
206-274-3194 | chris.koehler@seattlearch.org
710 9th Ave, Seattle, WA 98104-2017
Amy Nash
Welcome Circle Coordinator
206-550-1204 | amy.nash@seattlearch.org
Rebecca Burdullis
Welcome Circle Associate