PASSERS-BY in Evesham were offered food from the Middle East, last Saturday (October 18) cooked by refugees who wanted to show the kind of contribution they can make to society.
The Food for Hope event held outside Evesham Methodist Church on Bridge Street, doled out 12 different dishes from Iran and Syria, some being cooked on a barbecue in front of the church.
Organised in association with Evesham Vale Welcomes Refugees, Revd David Haslam, who helped organise the event, said people were amazed at the variety and presentation of the food and surprised that it was all free.
Tempting hot and cold dishes from Iran and Syria were served up to passers-by. s
He said the day was a response to the ‘rather troubling polarisation’ in society from those who believe that all its troubles are caused by asylum seekers or migrant people.
Evesham Methodist Church now has more than a dozen Iranian refugee members in the congregation, and others who have asked to learn more about Christianity.
They have said they are not free to become Christians in Iran’s repressive society, and have expressed a deep gratitude about Britain being willing to accept them, and allow them to become Christians if they wish.
Food for Hope which took place on October 18 in Evesham. s
Revd Haslam explained they are eager to adjust to UK society and make an input, some volunteering with local charities and others are finding local jobs.
He said: “Many of those who sampled the food agreed that this is how it should be, everyone working together and learning from each other.
“The refugees tell me how grateful they are that Britain has given them the safety and security they could never have enjoyed at home.”
The action tied in with national organisation Hope not Hate’s Weekend of Hope (October 18 to 19) with the message that communities are stronger together.