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Asylum-Seeking, Migration and Church

Susanna Snyder author

Format:Hardback

Publisher:Taylor & Francis Ltd

Published:26th Oct '12

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Asylum-Seeking, Migration and Church cover

Asylum-Seeking, Migration and Church addresses one of the most pressing issues confronting contemporary society. How are we to engage with migrants? Drawing on studies of church engagement with asylum seekers in the UK and critical immigration and refugee issues in North America, Snyder presents an extended theological reflection on both the issue of asylum-seeking and the fears of established populations surrounding immigration. This book outlines ways in which churches are currently supporting asylum seekers, encouraging closer engagement with people seen as 'other' and more thoughtful responses to newcomers. Creatively exploring biblical and theological traditions surrounding the 'stranger', Snyder argues that as well as practising a vision of inclusive community churches would do well to engage with established population fears. Trends in global migration and the dynamics of fear and hostility surrounding immigration are critically and creatively explored throughout the book. Inviting more complex, nuanced responses to asylum seekers and immigrants, this book offers invaluable insights to those interested in Christian ethics, practical theology, social work, mission and faith and social action, as well as those working in the field of migration.

’At the heart of the gospel is the challenge to see the face of Christ in the stranger, the migrant and the dispossessed. Susanna Snyder’s book begins from the stories of those displaced by the currents of globalization, and draws hope from their resilience as well as the actions of those called to be their hosts and advocates. Underpinning all this is a profound theological reflection on our shared humanity and the divine invitation to live as people of faith, not fear.’ Elaine Graham, University of Chester, UK ’As a migrant myself I deeply appreciate what Susanna Snyder has said about "flight" and "fright" as experiences shaping the migrants' self-identity and relations to the church. What makes Snyder's biblically-based reflections on migration so moving and transformative is their rootedness in her personal contacts with the migrants themselves, in their precariousness and vulnerability. I most strongly recommend this book not only to theology students but also to pastors, especially in the USA, where the number of migrants, documented and undocumented, is increasing exponentially. The book will help us make the church a welcoming home to migrants of all faiths.’ Peter C. Phan, Georgetown University, USA ’A comprehensive and compelling exploration of how people of faith are at the heart of forging a new imagination about migration. In naming the movement from an ecology of fear to an ecology of faith, Snyder challenges us to see the migrant not as a threat but a gift to community. She highlights not only how the Church is reaching out to immigrants but how immigrants are transforming the Church.’ Daniel Groody, University of Notre Dame, USA 'Since migration is an important contemporary social issue that is increasingly being politicised, it is vital that the Church knows how to respond. Snyder’s book offers a timely contribution to this debate by exploring these issues from a Christian faith perspective, and recognising that encounters with th

ISBN: 9781409422990

Dimensions: unknown

Weight: 680g

312 pages