Community Outreach and Justice

“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it.” – Hebrews 13:2

At St. Thomas’ Parish, our strong commitment to welcoming all guides our outreach and justice work. Activities and projects that engage our parishioners include:

• Refugee Welcome: Since early 2022, St. Thomas’ has partnered with mutual aid networks and with other faith communities to provide a variety of services to recently arrived refugees, asylum seekers and migrants. Examples include helping pregnant refugees navigate the health care system; offering a summer camp program for immigrant children; and sponsoring two Afghan asylum seekers as they resettled in Washington. We are currently raising money for a transitional housing fund for refugees, which as its first project will establish “Casa de Solidaridad,” a group home especially for LGBTQ+ migrants.

• Samaritan Ministry: St. Thomas’ has a longstanding relationship with this organization, which focuses on supporting homeless and vulnerable individuals as they seek employment and take the next step toward independence.

• Christ House: St. Thomas’ parishioners are regular kitchen volunteers at this residential shelter for homeless men in need of medical care.

• Voice Lessons: Brynn Farlow, our music program assistant, offers scholarships specifically for LGBTQ+ students. As a trans singer, she wishes to be the instructor and mentor she wishes she had had throughout her vocal studies.

We are also excited to announce the Bishop Gene Robinson Endowment for Community Outreach, founded in the fall of 2023 to commemorate the ministry and legacy of our Bishop-in-Residence on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood and 20th anniversary of his consecration as a bishop. Stay tuned for more information on how this fund will support our outreach work.