18 June 2025 | St Albans, UK [tedNEWS with ADRA Europe]
1. What is World Refugee Sabbath?
World Refugee Sabbath is a designated day, usually the Saturday before World Refugee Day (20 June), when Adventist churches and communities focus on raising awareness about refugees and asylum seekers. It’s an opportunity to learn about their experiences, offer support, and advocate for their rights.
2. What is this year’s theme?
This year’s theme is solidarity—standing with refugees not only in words, but through meaningful action. Solidarity means truly listening to their voices, valuing their stories, and walking alongside them on their journey. It means working towards peace in places they’ve had to flee, so that one day they can return safely. It also means creating spaces where they can rebuild their lives, and ensuring communities and nations have the tools they need to support and welcome them.
3. What are ADRA Europe, TED, and EUD doing to mark the day?
In Europe, the Communication Departments of the Trans-European Division (TED) and Inter-European Division (EUD), together with the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) in Europe, have once again partnered to prepare a variety of resources to celebrate the resilience of refugees, including the Art Contest and Gala.
Because an image is worth a thousand words, the 2025 Art Contest, “Hear me. See me. Walk with me,” invited young people from around the world to use their creativity to learn about, understand, and support those forced to flee their countries. This year, judges received 280 inspiring entries. You can watch the Art Gala here, meet the young winners, and be inspired by their stunning works.
4. Why does it matter?
More than 117.3 million people have been displaced from their homes due to climate disasters, conflict, and persecution. Through the Art Contest, children, young people, and families can use their creativity to share a powerful message: everyone deserves to be treated with practical kindness, justice, compassion, and love—to live as God intended.
5. How can I get involved?
You can support your local ADRA office by volunteering or making a donation. You can also take part in next year’s Art Contest, and help raise awareness by sharing this year’s images with friends and family. Most importantly, you can pray—for refugees around the world to find shelter and peace, and for global leaders to make wise and compassionate decisions.
[featured image: Shutterstock]
