While this summer has seen a bout of unexpected weather from heatwaves to rainy days, there is one day we are hoping the sun will stay shining all day long – that is our annual Summer Party!
As a relatively new member of the JRS team, this will be the first time I am attending the event, but I have heard from colleagues that the Summer Party is an absolute highlight of the year, enjoyed by our refugee friends, JRS supporters, and volunteers alike.
With a range of Ethiopian dishes, an outdoor barbecue and a wide array of salads, party go-ers will not only be treated to an exceptional meal, but also to good music and plenty of activities. Our refugee friends have been busy choosing music for the playlist and we can be sure to expect a wonderfully eclectic array of music: from ballads, reggae to pop.
I have been told to also expect to find face painting, a magic show, photo booths, a choir and band who will performing in the garden – weather permitting!
In the lead up to the event, I have regularly spotted many refugee friends and team members busy prepping! I have found it particularly heartening to see our refugee friends creating beautiful decorations from scratch whilst at the Day Centre. Together, they have decorated bunting, shaped origami cranes and paper bow ties, all ready to be displayed at our centre in Wapping on the day, ensuring it is beautifully party-ready!
While I am very much looking forward to the many highlights that the day will bring, I know that above all, it will be a day of celebration, of lightness and fun for many of our refugee friends who continually encounter hardship. After all, there is no better way to unite people from all different backgrounds and experiences than by simply sharing great food and enjoying a great party atmosphere.
JRS UK shares the global mission of JRS to accompany refugees. It is our experience that through accompaniment we affirm that God is present, even in most tragic episodes. One way that we live-out this mission, is by also sharing episodes of joy and celebration with our refugee friends; moments of compassion, laughter and togetherness.
The Summer Party is a chance to celebrate our refugee friends as individuals and experience true, meaningful encounters.
Could you support us and donate to keep such events going?
