World Refugee Week runs from 15-21 June 2026, with 20 June being World Refugee Day. 2026 also marks 75 years since the 1951 UNHCR Refugee Convention. The war in the Middle East and in other places across our world, means a continued increase in those seeking refuge and places of sanctuary from war torn countries, as well as those escaping drought and religious persecution.

In 1739, the great John Wesley, who inspired the Methodist movement, famously wrote in a letter that, ‘I look upon all the world as my parish’. This should be our attitude as ‘loving neighbours’ toward those fleeing danger, and seeking sanctuary on our shores. Refugee Week is a perfect opportunity for us to do this. It is a moment to show solidarity, carry out advocacy as well as small acts of kindness that break down barriers and help build bridges at this most important of times.

This year, we are invited to pray for refugees in a meaningful and transformative way. The prayers are structured around three simple yet profound terms:

THANK YOU

Prayer ideas to reflect on our own safety, and to thank God for the presence, gifts and contributions of refugees. THANK_YOU_Praying_for_Refugees

SORRY

Prayer ideas to say sorry to God for the times when we have not welcomed the stranger. SORRY_Praying_for_Refugees

PLEASE

Prayer ideas to intercede for refugees and ask God for inner transformation. PLEASE_Praying_for_Refugees

The prayer ideas invite a deeper connection to the plight of refugees, providing space for our hearts to break for the forced displacement of God’s image-bearers.

A Prayer for Refugees and those Seeking Sanctuary

God of justice, God of love, in whose image all are made.
We bring before you all who have been forced to leave their homes,
and have lost livelihoods, as a result of war,
drought, famine, persecution and poverty.

We consider the often-perilous journeys they make,
whether alone or with loved ones,
as they seek sanctuary and a new place to call home,
whether temporary or permanent.

We think of loved ones who are left behind or separated by the journey,
and pray that they receive your divine protection.

We pray that those on the move receive hospitable
welcomes at their places of destination,
and we ask that they may be able to settle and
regain some semblance of normality in their new homes.

We also pray that they do not experience hostility
and intimidation from those who feel threatened
by their presence.

We think of your church, and ask that
congregations around your world
will continue to show the love of Christ
to those who are so much in need of it.

As Christians, may we never regard mercy and
compassion towards others as weakness, naivety or gullibility,
but display the traits that demonstrate that we follow a Saviour
who came to rescue those left behind.

So, Lord, we pray that you give us the courage to
always do the right thing.

This we ask in Jesus’ name. Amen.

(Taken from CTBI)

More resources can be found here

Salvation Army: salvationist.org.uk
Churches’ Refugee Network: http://www.ctbi.org.uk/crn
Church of Sanctuary/Sanctuary Sunday: https://ctbi.org.uk/sanctuary-sunday/
Welcome Churches: https://welcomechurches.org/
Joint Public Issues Team: https://jpit.uk/
Cities of Sanctuary: https://cityofsanctuary.org/
Refugee Week: see: https://refugeeweek.org/
Refugee Council: https://www.refugeecouncil.org.uk/
Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants: https://jcwi.org.uk/
International Rescue Committee: https://help.rescue-uk.org/