I Was a Stranger and You Took Me in: Pentecostal Responses to the Refugee Crisis - Hardcover

by Lois E. Olena (Editor), Médine Moussounga Keener (Foreword by)

In a world grappling with one of the most significant humanitarian crises of our time, Pentecostals are uniquely positioned to respond with Spirit-empowered compassion and Christlike love. I Was a Stranger and You Took Me In explores Pentecostal responses to the global refugee crisis, drawing from papers presented at the 53rd annual meeting of the Society for Pentecostal Studies. Through an interdisciplinary lens, this volume bridges biblical-theological insights, political and ethical challenges, and practical strategies for action. From reflections on peacemaking and justice to firsthand accounts of ministry at the US-Mexico border, these pages offer a call to action for a faith community compelled to sustain a witness of peace-with-justice. Whether confronting war, systemic injustice, or climate-driven displacement, this book equips Pentecostals--and all who care about the plight of the stranger--to embody radical hospitality in personal, academic, and ministry contexts. Written by leading Pentecostal voices, it is a timely and transformative contribution to the Pentecostals, Peacemaking, and Social Justice series. Discover how the Spirit empowers us to welcome the stranger, heal divisions, and bring hope to the margins--because, as Pentecostals, many of these strangers are us.

Author Biography

Lois E. Olena has served as associate professor at the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary, as executive director and president of the Society for Pentecostal Studies, and has taught internationally. Some of her publications include Stanley M. Horton: Shaper of Pentecostal Theology, Children of the Calling: Essays in Honor of Stanley M. Burgess and Ruth V. Burgess, and Women in Pentecostal and Charismatic Ministry: Informing a Dialogue on Gender, Church, and Ministry. See lois.olena.com.