Related blogs
Content linked below doesn't necessarily represent the views of the Jesus Army
homelessness
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Meeting needs
Sue Withers describes how the London Jesus Centre has benefitted a visitor.Published: 3rd Oct 2013
SINCE Oscar* from the Congo arrived in the country in January 2011 he has had his asylum claim turned down, and is waiting for a response to his appeal application.
He came to the Jesus Centre wanting to learn English but, as with so many in his situation, his educational needs cannot be effectively met without other basic needs being addressed. He has sometimes arrived hungry or cold and we have been able to give food, clothing and blankets from our drop-in supplies.
Despite these difficulties he is committed to attending his English class and hardly misses a week. There he has begun to grasp basic verbs and greetings and to be more confident in speaking. IT help has enabled him to use emails and to communicate with his...
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Living out the words of Jesus
Sue Withers reflects on Jesus’ command to love the poor.Published: 11th Jul 2013
1.35pm I’m working in Reception at the London Jesus Centre, and our Drop-In is closed.
Two men arrive. A regular bringing his friend.
“Can I have some clothes?”
“Sorry, the session is finished.”
The request is timid: “Any water please?”
I come into focus and realise the man is thin, inadequately dressed for a cold June day. Trousers held together by string. Maybe Algerian, possibly an asylum seeker.
“Yes, of course you can have some water.”
And we have clothes, donated in abundance.
They take red crosses, and I reflect how good it is that the poor of London are wearing our colours.
They take their leave...
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