On May 16, 2021, the congregation renewed its commitment to immigrant justice and voted to modify Room 99, an underused classroom, to add shower and clothes washing facilities and upgrade the current kitchenette. This is the latest on the project.
Gloria Dei is one month closer to creating a safe, welcoming home for asylum seekers and to accompanying them on their journey. Check out these opportunities for you to be involved!
Help us ready the apartment.
Make a Financial Gift
Your donation will help offset the cost of a Murphy bed, washer and dryer, paint and flooring, and monthly expenses, including food, clothing, transportation, legal assistance, and health care. Give here and select “Room 99” or by check to Gloria Dei, designated for Room 99. Thank you to all who have already made contributions to this ministry or have indicated you plan to do so.
Shop the Target Gift Registry
Go to target.com/gift-registry, search first name “Gloria,” last name “Dei,” or search by organization “Gloria Dei.” Choose from several affordable household items. Hassle free! All orders ship to one location.
Donate Furnishings
If you can offer any of the following items, gently used, contact Johanna Boller or Lenore Franzen. Thanks to those who have already done so.
– Futon that opens to double bed—38” x 81”
– Nightstand with drawers—18” x 20”
– Ottoman with storage—24” x 24”
– Floor lamp and two table lamps
Volunteer
This fall, we will need help with light demo of the space, painting, sewing a curtain, and setting up the apartment. After guests arrive, we will need people to help them settle in and access various services. Contact Christine Schoettler to help out.
Watch for a flyer in upcoming Sunday bulletins that details ways to participate. When it is safe to do so, we will offer tours of Room 99 so you can see this exciting ministry taking shape.
Learn about welcoming asylum seekers.
On Sept. 9 and 23 and Oct. 7, join us for a general orientation offered in conjunction with other metro-area faith communities that are also preparing to house asylum seekers. Each session is from 6-7:30 p.m. Register here.
– Session 1, Sept. 9 (Gloria Dei courtyard) will describe asylum seekers’ experience, what they most need, and how we can engage in helpful and sustainable ways.
– Session 2, Sept. 23 (Edina Community Lutheran Church parking lot) will help us reflect on our purpose for offering a safe home to asylum seekers and how best to welcome them.
– Session 3, Oct. 7 (Edina Community Lutheran Church parking lot) will discuss trauma, a common experience for asylum seekers, and offer suggestions for an appropriate response.
Rachel Uthmann will lead the sessions. She is the Director of Training with the International Association for Refugees, a faith-based organization that works globally and is headquartered here in Minnesota.
Later this fall, Gloria Dei will also offer specific training to members who will be volunteering once our guests arrive. Details to come!
Any questions, please contact Claire Hoyum or Lenore Franzen.
