The theme for Refugee Week this year is Courage. What an inspiring lens to
reflect on the experience of refugees and on our own need for courage in the face of fear! A friend said to me this week that courage is not the absence of fear, but fear walking.
“The word courage comes from the Latin “cor” meaning “heart.”
For refugees around the world, courage is often a daily necessity. It is the courage to face unknown journeys, learn new languages, navigate unfamiliar systems, or simply to wake up each morning and step into an uncertain world.
At a time when some seek to divide and blame, Refugee Week 2026 calls us to come together and share the courage to welcome, to stand for what we believe in, and to celebrate culture and community – to be joyful, imagine new possibilities, dream, heal, and connect.
Courage isn’t always loud or bold. It can be found in simple acts: opening your door to a neighbour, trying new food, reading a book, or watching a film that changes your view of the world. It can be speaking up, asking for help, sharing your story – or simply having the courage to be yourself.
(To discover delightful artwork by Quentin Blake, dedicated to Refugee Week, click here.)
On Sunday some of our youth, together with our youth leaders Emma and Armel, are taking part in leading our worship for Refugee Sunday. Everyone is welcome!
For more ideas, resources and free films (only this week) click here.
