ABSTRACT

Asylum-Seeking, Migration and Church addresses one of the most pressing issues confronting contemporary society. How are we to engage with migrants? Drawing on studies of church engagement with asylum seekers in the UK and critical immigration and refugee issues in North America, Snyder presents an extended theological reflection on both the issue of asylum-seeking and the fears of established populations surrounding immigration. This book outlines ways in which churches are currently supporting asylum seekers, encouraging closer engagement with people seen as 'other' and more thoughtful responses to newcomers. Creatively exploring biblical and theological traditions surrounding the 'stranger', Snyder argues that as well as practising a vision of inclusive community churches would do well to engage with established population fears. Trends in global migration and the dynamics of fear and hostility surrounding immigration are critically and creatively explored throughout the book. Inviting more complex, nuanced responses to asylum seekers and immigrants, this book offers invaluable insights to those interested in Christian ethics, practical theology, social work, mission and faith and social action, as well as those working in the field of migration.

part I|48 pages

Setting the Scene

part II|78 pages

Flight and Fright: Experiences of Seeking Sanctuary

part III|68 pages

Encountering ‘Strangers' in the Bible

chapter 6|10 pages

Approaching ‘Strangers'

chapter 7|24 pages

Ecology of Fear: Ezra–Nehemiah

part IV|20 pages

Conclusion

chapter 9|18 pages

Moving Our Encounters On