Immigrant & Refugee Ministry STL

Immigrant & Refugee ministry

The Immigrant & Refugee Ministry is a relational, welcoming ministry that strives to uphold the God-given worth and dignity of each person. Our mission is two-fold: to welcome, assist, empower, and advocate for and with immigrants and refugees regardless of their status; and to create bridges of solidarity among members of participating churches, volunteers, and immigrants and refugees. IRM provides services without regard to parish boundaries, religious preference, or ethnic or national background.

Mission

The Immigrant & Refugee Ministry is a grassroots effort that connects volunteers with immigrants and refugees to assist them as they make their homes here in St. Louis. In order to work for greater justice for those who have resettled in our community, IRM provides education and advocacy opportunities related to local, state, and national policies. IRM is a collaborative ministry of St. Anthony of Padua, St. Cronan, St. Margaret of Scotland, St. Pius V, St. Vincent de Paul, and St. Stephen Protomartyr.

Our Inspiration

"The émigré Holy Family of Nazareth, fleeing into Egypt, is the archetype of every refugee family. Jesus, Mary and Joseph, living in exile in Egypt to escape the fury of an evil king, are, for all times and all places, the models and protectors of every migrant, alien and refugee of whatever kind who, whether compelled by fear of persecution or by want, is forced to leave his native land, his beloved parents and relatives, his close friends, and to seek a foreign soil."

-Pope Pius XII, Exsul Familia Nazarethana