By The Editorial Team published on behalf of the Social Outreach Team,
In response to the plight of Malawian nationals stranded outside the Malawian Consulate in Johannesburg following anti-immigrant sentiments in the country, St. Stephen’s Anglican Church, Sunninghill, Social Outreach Ministry reached out to support of the displaced Malawians. The Outreach program offered assistance through a series of feeding initiatives and community clean-up effort around the area. The harsh winter cold weather compounded the already dire circumstances, intensifying the suffering of women and children, many of whom remain undocumented as they await repatriation back to Malawi. Without adequate food, sanitation or shelter, their dignity was gravely compromised.
The Church affirms that every human being, regardless of circumstance, bears the dignity of being created in the image of God (Imago Dei). Guided by this truth, the Social Outreach Ministry felt compelled to respond to the needs of our brothers and sisters. Scripture calls us to care for the foreigner and the stranger, reminding us that Jesus Himself was once a refugee in Egypt (Matthew 2:13–15), while Abraham and Jacob also lived as sojourners in foreign lands (Genesis 23:4; Genesis 47:9). Hebrews 13:2 exhorts us: “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” Likewise, Leviticus 19:33–34 commands: “When a foreigner resides among you in your land, do not mistreat them. Love them as yourself.” Living out these Christian values, members of the congregation have returned on several occasions to provide nourishing meals to the displaced, while volunteers also cleaned the area surrounding the consulate where many have been sheltering for weeks. These acts of service, though simple, were tangible expressions of Christ’s love and compassion echoing His words in Matthew 25:35: “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me.” St. Stephen’s continues to stand in solidarity with the displaced, affirming that the Church is called to be a place of hope, refuge and practical love.
We are deeply grateful to every parishioner and volunteer who generously gave their time, resources, food and prayers. Together, we have been privileged to demonstrate God’s love in action and to remind our displaced neighbours that they have not been forgotten.
