Welcoming the stranger

Welcome to the Welcoming the Stranger (WTS) Focus Group—dedicated to supporting migrants, advocating justice, and living our Vincentian spirit of universal fraternity.

WELcoming the stranger

Embracing Migrants and Refugees with Compassion and Justice

Inspired by our Vincentian heritage and deeply moved by the struggles faced by migrants and refugees, the Daughters of Charity established the Welcoming the Stranger focus group. Today, refugees are among the most vulnerable and desperate people worldwide, with approximately 27.1 million forcibly displaced. Of these, about 448,000 currently reside in the UK—representing only 1% of the global refugee population.

Pope Francis reminds us: “There is no refugee crisis, but a crisis of welcome.”



"There is no refugee crisis, but a crisis of welcome."

Pope francis

In response, our Sisters offer practical assistance, advocacy, prayer, and friendship to migrants and asylum seekers who frequently encounter hostility, homelessness, and systemic barriers. With no legal route for most to reach safety or apply for asylum from abroad, many risk—and tragically lose—their lives seeking refuge. Our mission is to embody Christ’s compassion, ensuring that every stranger is recognised, welcomed, and treated as a beloved neighbour.

SERVE, SPEAK & INSPIRE

WHAT WE DO

Through practical action, advocacy, collaboration and prayer, we offer meaningful support and friendship to migrants and refugees in need.

Hands-on Support and Compassion

We provide direct, practical assistance through volunteering, supporting local community projects, and offering day-to-day care and friendship to migrants and asylum seekers facing hardship.

supporting through prayer

Our Sisters offer ongoing prayer and spiritual support, lifting up the specific needs and personal struggles of migrants and refugees in our daily prayers.

speaking up for justice

We actively raise awareness about migration realities, advocate for just policies, and inform our communities, highlighting significant events and opportunities for reflection and action.

working together for greater impact

By partnering with justice and peace networks and collaborating across provinces, we amplify our efforts, creating broader and more impactful responses to the needs of migrants and refugees.

our lived experience

walking alongside those who seek refuge

Our Sisters bring rich and diverse experience from years of compassionate service among migrants and refugees:

• Sr Liz has served communities in Sudan.
• Sr Ann has supported people in Ethiopia and currently volunteers at the Asylum Link project in Liverpool.
• Sr Bridie spent 10 years as Director of a centre for homeless people in London.
• Sr Franca advocates for human rights and poverty alleviation at the United Nations NGO office in Geneva.
• Sr Ruth has worked with asylum seekers for 20 years, founding a drop-in centre and accommodation project for those experiencing destitution.
• Sr Anne has befriended and supported refugee children learning English.
• Sr Mary actively supports homeless people in Glasgow.
• Sr Ratana works directly with migrants in Adelaide, Australia, and collaborates closely with the Hutt Street Centre for Homeless People.

Their profound personal insights help us understand why people risk everything in search of safety, dignity, and the opportunity for a new life.

Witness. Reflect. Respond.

ENCOUNTER THE CALL

“No one puts their children in a boat unless the water is safer than the land.”

– Warsan Shire

Our ministry begins with understanding—listening deeply to the stories and struggles of those who are forced to leave their homes. This short presentation shares the heart of our mission and invites you to reflect on the call to welcome with compassion and courage.

songs of justice & hope

music that echoes the cry of the stranger

In our work with migrants and refugees, we are continually reminded that justice is not only pursued in action, but also expressed through art. Music has a way of speaking when words fall short—giving voice to the heartbreak of exile and the deep human yearning for peace, dignity, and home. These songs invite us to enter into the experience of others with compassion. As you listen, we encourage you to pause, reflect, and pray for a world where all are truly welcomed.