Thought for the Week column with Rev Martin Russell: God values and loves all people
It has been disturbing watching pictures of demonstrations of masked protesters against refugees arriving in small boats.
Even lifeboat men have suffered abuse for rescuing those lost at sea.
The police have a tough time protecting public safety when faced with such aggressive demonstrators.
We need to have a greater understanding towards refugees.
They are fleeing their homelands through persecution, poverty, climate change and a longing for a better life for themselves and their children.
In the Bible there is a strong tradition calling for compassion on orphans, widows and aliens.
As God showed pity on his people when they were slaves in Egypt, so they must now show mercy to those in their midst who were struggling to survive.
I am thankful that in Halifax there is a strong tradition of helping the needy, especially by the faith communities.
St Augustine's Centre offers friendship and help to refugees and asylum seekers who face obstacles and challenges in their desire to settle here and contribute to our common life.
God values and loves all people and he calls us to live that way.