Imagine leaving your home for the last time, taking only what fits into two bags. You’ll never return or see
your friends and neighbors again. This is the reality for refugees.

In October 2021, images of Afghan refugees clinging to planes shook the world. The following Sunday,
Marisa Schoening, a member of Indian Run United Methodist Church, was moved by her pastor’s sermon
on World Communion Sunday. Rev. Jeff Allen spoke about loving your neighbor and engaging in mission
both locally and globally. Inspired to act, Marisa reached out to Community Refugee & Immigration
Services (CRIS), a nonprofit supporting refugee integration in Central Ohio.

Three weeks later, Marisa invited her congregation to join her efforts. “There are refugee families that
need our support,” she said. The response was overwhelming. Members of Indian Run contributed time,
funds, and resources. On Christmas Eve, Marisa’s family welcomed an Afghan family of four. Since then,
the Indian Run Refugee Support Team has resettled nine Afghan families and one Syrian family.

“Our goal is to empower families, not foster dependence,” said Rev. Allen.

Sama, a young Afghan girl, shared her gratitude: “In Afghanistan, I wouldn’t be allowed to attend school
past sixth grade or become a doctor or make a difference in the world. I am very grateful to be in the
United States.”

This ministry has profoundly impacted Indian Run, with the congregation stepping up to meet every
need. “It feels good to know you may be saving a life,” Marisa said. “This is what God calls us to do.”