Several of Luton’s faith communities, places of worship, faith organisations and individuals of no particular religious affiliation have been working tirelessly to support
In its statement, Luton Council claimed Luton to be a caring and compassionate town which will do whatever it can to support people in need.
However, thinking of the strain placed on the town, the Luton Council called upon the government to share the refugee load more fairly. Hazel Simmons MBE, Leader of the Council said “we are under a lot of pressure and we don’t want our community’s generosity being taken advantage of”.
Prior to the latest influx of refugees from Afghanistan, Luton’s All Saints Church had been working to support the asylum seekers and refugees placed in Luton. The Church Hall had turned into clothing bank as donations poured in during the winter to support friends in need of warm clothing.
Acknowledging the work undertaken by the All Saints Church, which is now supported by several other Churches, faith communities and organisations including Care for Calais and the neighbouring Medina Mosque and Luton’s Discover Islam Centre, the Church of England Diocese of St Albans has produced a powerful and moving film titled “This is Church”, which can be viewed here.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KYfXtCIvmZo
In her short reflection shared towards the end of the film, Revd Jo Burke of All Saints Church is heard saying, “Start with the Gospel - The Good Samaritan’s Story is the obvious one or look at Matthew 25: 35-40 where Jesus says I was hungry you fed me. I was stranger you welcomed me. That’s all you need. Just live it in whatever way it is relevant in your setting.”
