In 1939, the Diocese of Southern Ohio published this iconic poster – “In the name of these refugees, aid all refugees,” depicting the Holy Family – Jesus and his parents – fleeing to Egypt to escape the persecution of King Herod, as found in the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 2. It became a rallying cry across the church. Parishes and dioceses all across the country joined the effort, speaking out on behalf of Jewish refugees and others displaced by the Nazis. People raised money to pay for steamship passage for refugees escaping Europe, and then mass resettlement efforts began after the war ended in 1945.
We’re seeing dioceses, parishes, Episcopalians and many others reclaiming this poster and this message, drawing the direct connection between their faith and their work to advocate for and welcome refugees.