On Wednesday, April 30, we will begin our study of immigrants, refugees, travellers, visitors, sojourners, just passing through, new in the neighbourhood, etc. biblical stories to give us strength and courage.
April 30 - The story of Joseph in Genesis.
Some things we will consider: the difference between immigrants and refugees, why do people move to another country, where did some of your ancestors originate (unless you are of First Nations or Inuit origins, your family came from someplace else!), why did your ancestors come to Canada, where did they settle? Note: if your ancestors were political refugees, we will emphasize that next week.
May 7 - Our Bible Study for this week will focus on refugees - those who leave their home for political reasons or oppression. We will begin with a review of the story of the Exodus.
Exodus 1:8-14, Deuteronomy 26:1-11, Psalm 137
Some things to consider: Who are refugees today? What strikes you about the news stories? What support systems to we have in this country, and what else could be done? What do we do about quotas, limits, illegal residents?
May 14 - the story of Abraham and Sarah and their journey, following the call of God to an unknown land.
Scriptures: Genesis 12:1-0, 13:14-18
To consider: How many times have you moved to a new place? as a child, as an adult. Why did you move? How did you feel about moving? Who went with you? What did you take that was important, and what did you have to leave behind? What do you need to make you feel "at home" in a new location? Are there family rituals about moving? and finally, where was God in the move?
There will be a fun part in each session. Bible study should bring us joy.