Supporting Sudanese Refugees in Egypt
In the wake of the world’s worst humanitarian crisis in decades, the people of Sacred Heart Parish in Cairo, Egypt are stepping up to care for their neighbors.
In April 2023 violence and fighting erupted in Khartoum, Sudan as a result of a power struggle between the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Army. Since then nearly 12 million people have been forcibly displaced, seeking shelter in neighboring countries.
Some refugees have found a place in Egypt. While many now have housing, they still lack community. That’s why the parishioners of Sacred Heart Parish with their pastor Fr. Tecki Hagos Woldeghebriel, mccj launched a program to support their Sudanese neighbors.
Refugee families are transported from their apartments to the parish compound for some much needed companionship, games and activities for the kids, a warm meal, and medical care.
“The program has been a success. Moving from their cramped, dark apartment to a place where they can run, get enough sunshine, release their energies, and relax has made a huge difference. The medical and psychological attention they receive truly makes it worthwhile. Coming to the parish compound makes them feel safe and accepted,” Fr. Tecki explained.
To make this program a reality, Fr. Tecki sought financial support from the Comboni Missionaries North American Province Small Mission Projects.
“Through the kindness and contributions of the parish’s Christian communities, we managed to cover 10% of the total expense. The remaining 90% was made possible thanks to your generous donation,” Fr. Tecki said.
It was your donations that allowed us to support this program.
“Thanks to your support, we were able to make a significant impact on the children and their families. We tried to give them confidence and showed them that they are not isolated, but have people dedicated to helping them in whatever they need,” explained Fr. Tecki.
Jesus instructed us to “love your neighbor as yourself.” The people of Sacred Heart Parish are fulfilling that command. The refugees are very grateful for the initiative. They say “we always remember that we came from an area of conflicts and war. This means that we have seen a lot of destruction in our life and surroundings. This is a chance for us all to see that there is also the other face of the reality. That is, that there are very good people who struggle to create peace and growth in our society. People working very hard to give hope and strength to us all.”
Unfortunately, fighting and extreme violence continue in Sudan. The humanitarian crisis only worsens. We pray for a peaceful resolution. But until then, we will continue to care for our neighbors.
Sustaining this program presents a financial challenge. But Fr. Tecki is committed to training his people and strengthening their resolve to support this initiative. “We must remember that we’re dealing with individuals who are from their home country and land, relying entirely on the good will of others.”
