The Diocesan Bishop’s Advent Appeal offers a practical challenge working with a project which needs funds. Last Advent raised a remarkable £15,394-63p.

Bishop Robert says:

"I am delighted that such a large sum was raised for my appeal. I am grateful to all who made individual donations or helped run events which generated this magnificent amount.

“Last year’s  (2017) Appeal aimed to support homeless refugees and asylum seekers in Rome with humanitarian assistance (a daily, cooked breakfast and essential items for personal dignity and warmth) for 6 months. This is through a well-established and well-run project established by our Episcopal sister church of St. Paul’s Within the Walls.

“The Joel Nafuma Refugee Center assists approximately 17,000 people per year, and is the only day center open to receive homeless asylum seekers and refugees in Rome. Every day, JNRC welcomes 200-250 guests. The guests come from many different nations, including Mali, Afghanistan, Eritrea, Somalia, Pakistan, Guinea and the Ivory Coast. Half of them are homeless, sleeping in parks or on the pavement outside train stations.  

“While they wait for shelter, they are welcomed at JNRC, given a nutritious, cooked breakfast, as well as items for their personal dignity (toiletries, second-hand shoes, clothes and blankets), and offered legal advice.  If they wish, they can join a language lesson, learn to use a computer or simply watch the news on the TV.  JNRC has a multi-faith prayer space where guests can meditate and pray. 

“JNRC is the only place in Rome that takes in homeless and dormitory-housed refugees during the day, giving them a safe refuge from the streets.”

Find out more about JNRC on their website here.