Introduction:  The new coordinator of the diocesan Office of Migration reflects on private sponsorship in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon as the world prepares to mark International Migrants Day on Dec. 18. Hannah Abole Enti-Brown began her new role in September, after the retirement of previous coordinator Dr. Jan Bigland-Pritchard.

Background:  The diocese of Saskatoon is a Sponsorship Agreement Holder (SAH) with the federal government, tasked with overseeing private sponsorship of a certain number of refugees each year.  Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada recently announced a pause on other kinds of private sponsorship, as well as a reduction in the number of refugees to be accepted in 2025 – which potentially will put added pressure on SAHs in the months ahead.

 

By Hannah Abole Enti-Brown, Coordinator of the Office of Migration

My name is Hannah Abole Enti-Brown, and I am honored to serve as the Migration Coordinator for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon.

My professional background includes roles in cultural navigation and family support, which have allowed me to work closely with diverse populations. I am deeply committed to community building, and my Catholic faith has always guided me toward serving the vulnerable.

As an immigrant myself, I understand the challenges and resilience required to start anew, and I bring this empathy to my work with refugees.

Goals and hopes

I want people to know that their involvement—whether through sponsorship, volunteering, or prayer—makes a profound difference. This is not just about helping refugees; it’s about living out our faith and enriching our community. Together, we can be the hands and feet of Christ, bringing hope and healing to those in need.

My hope is to build a stronger, more cohesive network of sponsors and volunteers who are committed to welcoming refugees with open hearts. I aim to enhance awareness within the diocese about the transformative impact of private sponsorship, increase the number of sponsorships, and support both refugees and sponsors throughout the settlement process. Ultimately, I want to create a model of support that reflects our faith in action and inspires others to participate.

Role of the diocesan Office of Migration

The diocesan Office of Migration acts as a bridge between refugees, sponsors, and immigration authorities.

As a Sponsorship Agreement Holder (SAH) authorized by the federal government, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon has the authority to facilitate private sponsorships through constituent groups, ensuring that sponsors meet legal and financial requirements while also preparing them to support refugees holistically.

The role of the Migration Office, funded by the Bishop’s Annual Appeal, includes training, oversight, and ongoing support to ensure a smooth settlement process for all involved.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) relies on a SAH to ensure that the sponsorship meets all legal and financial requirements and that the sponsors are adequately prepared to fulfill their responsibilities. This structure allows the diocese and its constituent groups undertaking private sponsorships to maintain a high level of accountability and provide ongoing support to sponsors and refugees throughout the process.

The need

Refugees are individuals and families who are forced to flee their home countries due to persecution, war, or violence. They face unimaginable hardships, including loss of home and family, lack of basic necessities, and the trauma of displacement.

The need for support is immense, as they seek safety and an opportunity to rebuild their lives. Through private sponsorship, we can provide them with hope, stability, and a chance to thrive.

On average, the diocese facilitates approximately 40 private sponsorships annually, depending on the approval of the federal government, as well as on the availability of sponsors and resources. Each sponsorship represents a life-changing opportunity for refugees, and a profound act of faith and generosity from our community.

Role of constituent groups

As a SAH, the diocese of Saskatoon currently has 11 Catholic parishes working as constituent groups, actively involved in private sponsorship. These groups are composed of dedicated parishioners who embody the spirit of hospitality and service. The diocesan SAH also coordinates five constituent groups from other Christian denominations and one private organization.

Constituent groups play a crucial role in private sponsorship. Each group works as a team, ensuring that no single person is burdened with all the responsibilities of sponsorship.

Tasks are delegated based on individual skills and availability, allowing each member of the committee to contribute in ways that align with their strengths. For example, someone with strong administrative skills might handle paperwork, while others who can drive may focus on transportation. This collaborative approach not only ensures efficiency but also fosters a supportive environment for both the refugees and the volunteers.

Roles and responsibilities include:

• Serving as a link between the refugee, the co-sponsor, and the Office of Migration to ensure clear communication and coordination throughout the sponsorship process.
• Assisting in gathering the initial documents required to make the sponsorship application, ensuring all necessary paperwork is complete and accurate.
• Meeting new arrivals at the airport to provide a warm welcome.
• Helping with housing arrangements, such as finding and setting up accommodation.
• Assisting with paperwork, including healthcare registration, school enrollment, and employment applications.
• Providing transportation to appointments and teaching refugees how to navigate public transit.
• Assisting with registration with various post-settlement organizations, such as language programs, employment services, or community support groups, as needed.
• Organizing social and cultural orientation activities to help refugees adjust to their new environment.

Volunteers always needed

Parish constituent groups welcome volunteers of all ages and from all walks of life — whether you are young, retired, or anywhere in between.

This work of refugee sponsorship thrives on being inter-generational, bringing together diverse experiences and perspectives to create a richer support system for refugees. As long as you are willing to volunteer your time, we are committed to finding a role that fits your skills and interests.

These constituent groups work collaboratively to ensure refugees are welcomed and have the resources they need to thrive.

Key skills for constituent group members include:

• Organizational skills: For managing schedules, coordinating tasks, and maintaining documentation.
• Cultural sensitivity: To respect and understand the diverse backgrounds of refugees.
• Communication skills: For effectively interacting with refugees, other group members, and external organizations.
• Problem-solving abilities: To address challenges that may arise during settlement.
• Teamwork: As constituent groups work collaboratively, cooperation and flexibility are essential.
• Compassion and empathy: To connect with refugees and provide emotional support during their transition.
• Administrative skills: To handle detailed paperwork, budgeting, and reporting requirements.
• Driving ability: Volunteers who can drive are particularly valuable for transporting refugees to appointments, job interviews, and other important activities.

The time commitment can vary, but most volunteers dedicate significant time during the first few months after the refugee’s arrival, gradually reducing as refugees become more independent.

Being part of a constituent group is not just about giving; it’s also deeply rewarding, offering volunteers the opportunity to make meaningful connections, learn about other cultures, and see the transformative impact of their efforts.

Challenges include managing expectations, dealing with cultural differences, and navigating complex settlement processes. Invariably, however, the blessings far outweigh these challenges. Parishes and volunteers often describe the experience as life-changing, fostering a sense of community, faith, and purpose, while witnessing the resilience and gratitude of refugees.

Nurtured by faith

Our faith as Catholics deeply motivates and sustains the work of private sponsorship for refugees.

Jesus Christ himself was a refugee during His earthly life. As a child, He fled to Egypt with His family to escape the threat of King Herod (Matthew 2:13-15). This moment in Scripture reminds us that our Saviour experienced displacement, vulnerability, and the need for compassion from others.

As followers of Christ, we are called to extend the same compassion and care to refugees as was shown to Jesus and His family.

The Bible further commands us in Matthew 25:35-40: “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcome me.’ This passage teaches us that when we welcome and care for those in need, we are serving Christ Himself.

This work is an expression of our faith in action — living out the Gospel values of love, mercy, and solidarity. Private refugee sponsorship is challenging at times, but prayer, scripture, and the support of our faith community sustain us.

Knowing that we are part of God’s work to bring hope and healing to refugees inspires us to persevere and continue making a difference in their lives.”

Volunteering as a Catholic offers profound spiritual and personal rewards. When we ask our volunteers why they do what they do and the benefits they experience, their responses are inspiring and heartfelt.

Reflections have included that they feel closer to God and that serving others helps to live out the Gospel, deepening their faith, and bringing them closer to Christ.  As one volunteer said, “When I help others, I feel like I’m serving Christ Himself.”

Others have said that they experience personal growth: volunteering builds compassion, patience, and humility. It’s a journey of self-discovery that strengthens their relationship with God and others. They find fulfillment and purpose. Volunteers often express how fulfilling it is to make a tangible difference in someone’s life. As one shared, “Knowing I helped a family find safety and hope is the greatest reward.”

Assisting with private sponsorship also helps many feel more connected to their community. Volunteering fosters meaningful relationships within their parish and the broader Catholic community. Working together creates a sense of unity and shared purpose.

Many volunteers are inspired by faith and tradition. Many draw motivation from scripture and the examples of saints. They see their work as a continuation of the Church’s mission of mercy and justice.

Ultimately, volunteering as a Catholic not only transforms the lives of those we serve but also enriches the lives of the volunteers. It’s a way to live out our faith, follow in Christ’s footsteps, and experience the joy of giving.

How to get involved

If you are interested in becoming involved or want to learn more about the private sponsorship of refugees, the first step is to reach out. You can contact your parish office, where staff can provide information on existing initiatives, or connect you with others who are already involved.

You can also directly contact the Migration Office at the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon at (306) 242-1500 or by e-mailing migration@rcdos.ca.

We are here to answer your questions, provide resources, and guide you through the process of becoming a sponsor, volunteer, or supporter. Together, we can make a meaningful impact by extending Christ’s love and hospitality to those in need.

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The Office of Migration, Communications, and Catholic Saskatoon News are supported by gifts to the Bishop’s Annual Appeal: dscf.ca/baa.