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Love the stranger

Love the stranger

By: Welcome Churches
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About this listen

A podcast delving into the practical implications of Christ’s command of philoxenia (love of the stranger) for today’s Church. Love the stranger is brought to you by Welcome Churches, a UK-wide network of refugee-welcoming churches.

© 2025 Love the stranger
Christianity Spirituality
Episodes
  • From Convoys to Community: James Lynch of Welcome Churches
    Aug 21 2025

    You may already know that James is our new CEO - but do you know what led him here?

    In this episode, Samuel interviews James Lynch, Welcome Churches’ new CEO. They explore the lessons James has learnt - from his involvement in sending aid convoys during the Balkans War, to short-term mission trips, and his work in church outreach and engagement.

    Listen now to be inspired by the power of unity, the sharing of stories, and the unique blessing that comes through welcome.


    Visit www.welcomechurches.org to find out more about us. You can find us @welcomechurches on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

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    40 mins
  • By Faith - Stories of Welcome from Thatcham Baptist Church
    Jun 23 2025

    How do you hold onto hope when everything has changed?

    In this episode, Samuel sits down with Maria and Sarah from Thatcham Baptist Church for a deep conversation about resilience, faith, and the quiet power of welcome.

    Maria shares powerful moments from her journey of seeking refuge in the UK - what she left behind, what she’s found, and the people who made her feel at home. Sarah, a long-time refugee support worker, reflects on what it means to stay hopeful while walking alongside others through grief, change, and rebuilding.

    Together, they explore how faith motivates and sustains them in their work of welcome - and how churches can become places of true belonging. Tune in for a moving and honest conversation with Maria, Sarah, and Samuel.

    Visit www.welcomechurches.org to find out more about us. You can find us @welcomechurches on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

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    34 mins
  • Reflections from a departing CEO - interview with Emily Shepherd
    Apr 25 2025

    Back in late March before her departure from Welcome Churches, Samuel spoke with Emily.

    In their conversation, they discuss the lessons she learnt whilst at the helm of Welcome Churches, including adapting in response to need, leading sustainably, and her aspirations for the now-national movement of welcome catalysed by the charity.


    Visit www.welcomechurches.org to find out more about us. You can find us @welcomechurches on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

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    37 mins
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