Faith
How Welcoming Refugees Sparked a Lasting Transformation in One Community
Faith Facts
- First Baptist Church San Antonio has welcomed Burmese refugees, including Karen and Chin, for nearly two decades, fulfilling Acts 17:26 by serving where God places us.
- Church members provided transportation, meals, job help, and worship services in refugees’ languages, embodying Christlike love without strings attached.
- Refugees now thrive in college, military, and businesses, giving back as youth leaders, modeling transformed lives through persistent Christian hospitality.
God calls Christians to disciple nations, as seen when First Baptist Church of San Antonio opened hearts to Burmese refugees fleeing conflict.
Immigrants, including 2.5% refugees, drive San Antonio’s growth, reflecting America’s patriotic melting pot President Reagan celebrated as a city on the hill.
From initial aid with Catholic Charities to long-term support like green cards and citizenship, the church walked beside families, even Muslim Rohingya, proving love builds family across cultures.
Challenges like language barriers met resilience and determination, with church buses and tutors speaking love’s universal language.
Today, second-generation refugees lead worship and serve, visiting Thai camps to gain humility and purpose in Christ.
This quiet, enduring welcome counters slogans, showing faithful communities transform strangers into contributors honoring God and country.
Embrace the Great Commission: welcome refugees in your city with Christ’s persistent love to build God’s global family.