Refugees and Migration

The 34th General Council of The United Church of Canada (1992) endorsed "the moral right and responsibilities of congregations to provide sanctuary to legitimate refugee claimants who have been denied refugee status."

The public act of sanctuary-giving a refugee shelter in a church building-must be weighed most carefully; this prophetic witness is appropriate only in very few cases. Not all claimants are refugees who should remain in Canada or are at risk upon deportation. Some claimants need to be supported to return home. Misuse of sanctuary will actually hurt refugees.

A decision to grant sanctuary should be a unanimous decision of the congregational board in response to a clear injustice. Sanctuary should only be considered as a way to right a wrong or to uphold justice. As a public and prophetic witness of the church, it is to be considered only after all legal, administrative, and political appeals for justice have been tried. From this perspective, sanctuary is "moral obedience" and displays ultimate respect for the law and the justice it demands of it. Because the decision could have serious consequences, congregations are advised to consult the handbook and contact the Refugee Program Coordinator. 

Sanctuary for Refugees? is a highly recommended practical guide exploring the purpose and practice of sanctuary. The resource examines the legal, social, and political implications for the congregation. Special price: $5.00 for United Church congregations, or available as a PDF.

• Sanctuary for Refugees? A Guide for Congregations [PDF: 30 pp/188 KB]

For more information, please contact:

• Khwaka Kukubo
  Refugee Program Advisor
  The United Church of Canada
  Tel: 416-231-5931 ext. 4068
  Toll-free: 1-800-268-3781 ext. 4068