Refugee Language Project

At Refugee Language Project, we use language as a doorway to welcome displaced people for the flourishing of the community and the glory of God.

What’s the big deal about welcome anyway? Honestly, extending welcome sounds…small. Well I invite you to consider this typical trajectory:

Many of the men and women who come to our English classes for the first time have experienced extended periods of isolation with little to no community or support system. They walk through the doors with an overwhelming sense of uncertainty and what feels like an insurmountable language barrier. Their first steps are hesitant and guarded. They are unsure if they are in the right place. They are unsure if they belong. They are unsure if they are wanted. Then our team of volunteers and staff step forward, greeting them with a warm smile and a cup of tea. The returned, genuine smile doesn’t happen right away. It may take two classes or it may take two months. Like a light switch, though, it happens. They smile back! Suddenly they have confidence as their new posture declares, “I belong here.” The next step is somehow even more magical. These same individuals become the welcomers. They greet each other with hugs, they meet each other’s needs, and they look for new students to invite and welcome into a place of belonging. 

Friends, we believe welcome matters because we are recipients of the extravagant welcome of Jesus. When we embrace our refugee and immigrant neighbors with this same kind of welcome, through acts small and big, we see the welcomed turn around and embrace others. It is something we have observed time and time again in our interactions with displaced people. Welcome matters because these men and women themselves matter. Your support ensures that we can continue this work and use language as a doorway to bring about flourishing through:

Stability — like Daniel* asking for a leadership role at work after being encouraged by his teacher.


Vocation — like Kiros* returning to the field of engineering after months of studying with an English tutor.


Independence — like Winta* gaining employment to provide for her children with the help of a friend and interpreting support.


Vision — like Diana returning to her home country to minister to other women, sent off with the support of our community.

This week, during The Panhandle Gives, we will be telling stories of the impact of welcome. If you aren’t already on our email list or don’t follow us on social media, tap those links and follow the beautiful and real thread of human flourishing that is happening in YOUR community. And if you want to be a part of that story, please consider donating to support the mission of Refugee Language Project. We would be so honored if you’d join us. 

*pseudonym