Global Refuge Sunday at Trinity Lutheran Church Manhattan Beach – May 31
Featuring International Humanitarian Krish O’Mara Vignarajah, CEO Global Refuge

Trinity Lutheran Church Manhattan Beach will join congregations across the Southwest California synod in observing Global Refuge Sunday, a day dedicated to lifting up the stories, dignity, and resilience of immigrants and refugees. This year features Krish O’Mara Vignarajah, President and CEO of Global Refuge, formerly known as Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Services, one of the nation’s oldest and most respected organizations serving immigrants and refugees. We will also welcome Pr. Eric Shafer, pastor in residence at Global Refuge and Bishop Emeritus Dean Nelson, who has been an advocate for the work of Global Refuge for decades.

Global Refuge Sunday is a time to reflect on the biblical call to welcome the stranger and to learn practical, compassionate ways to support immigrant and refugee neighbors. Trinity Lutheran Church is participating as part of its ongoing commitment to community engagement, justice, and hospitality.

Following the worship service, there will be a reception and a time for questions and answers with Krish Vignarajah as well as Pr. Eric Shafer, pastor in residence at Global Refuge.

Featured Speaker: Krish O’Mara Vignarajah

Krish O’Mara Vignarajah is a nationally recognized leader in refugee resettlement, humanitarian policy, and immigrant justice. She serves as President and CEO of Global Refuge (formerly Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service), which has supported refugees, asylum seekers, and immigrant families since 1939.

Born in Sri Lanka, Vignarajah came to the United States as a child after her family fled civil conflict. She later served in the Obama administration as Policy Director for First Lady Michelle Obama, working on international development and women’s empowerment. Under her leadership, Global Refuge has expanded community‑based sponsorship, strengthened partnerships with faith communities, and elevated the national conversation around refugee protection.

Her presence at Trinity Lutheran Church underscores the congregation’s commitment to informed, compassionate engagement with global and local migration issues.

About Global Refuge

Global Refuge is one of the oldest and largest organizations in the United States dedicated to welcoming newcomers through advocacy, care, and empowerment. Since 1939, the organization has partnered with congregations and community groups to support refugees, asylum seekers, and immigrant families as they rebuild their lives with dignity and hope. You can learn more at: www.globalrefuge.org

About Trinity Lutheran Church of Manhattan Beach

Trinity Lutheran Church of Manhattan Beach, is an inclusive and rooted congregation of the ELCA, the largest denomination of Lutherans in the United States. The congregation is committed to worship, learning, community engagement, and living out Christ’s radical call to love the neighbor and to work for peace and justice throughout the world. Trinity centers its identity around its inclusive welcome, strong social‑justice ministries, and partnerships that support vulnerable communities both locally and globally. Trinity is a Reconciling in Christ Congregation that is committed to full welcome of all people, especially the members of the LGBTQIA+ communities. You can learn more at: www.trinitymb.org