Let it Snow
Most Burmese refugees had never seen snow before they arrived in the United States.
For many, it’s their first winter in America after fleeing persecution in their native Myanmar (Burma), a tropical Southeast Asian country where snow is unheard of.
But now they’ve already seen enough snow for a lifetime.
More than 200 ethnic Burmese Chin and Karen refugees experienced the heaviest snowfall for more than a century in Spokane, Washington, where six feet fell in just three weeks.
“It snowed day and night,” said Linda Unseth, director of World Relief’s refugee ministry in Spokane, where the record snowfall caused chaos.
But the snow also brought opportunities for the Burmese newcomers – many looking for employment in a tough job market.
It was so deep that roofs were in danger of collapsing under the weight. In fact, 40 businesses and a church gymnasium suffered severe roof damage.
Pastor Doug Wagley of New Vision Lutheran Church put Burmese refugees in touch with local contractors – and about 20 refugees were hired to clear snow from roofs.
“We Want More Snow!”
“When they started earning money they were excited – and wanted more snow!” Unseth said. “Their employers were very impressed with their work ethic and their willingness to jump right in.”
Since September, 2007, approximately 260 Burmese refugees have begun replanting their lives in Spokane with the help of World Relief and local churches.
In their homeland, many of the families suffered persecution for their faith or their pro-democracy stand.
Many of the Burmese are Christians and they have already started two new churches in the community, with facilities provided by two local congregations – Jacob’s Well and First Church of the Nazarene.
“The Burmese churches select their own leadership and run their own services,” explained Unseth. “The Karen selected their pastor from their congregation.”
You can help victims of persecution – like these resilient Burmese Christians – replant their lives in America.
Click here to donate to World Relief. Learn how your church can take part in World Relief’s Replanting Lives campaign.
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