The Despised Samaritan: What it means to welcome the stranger
The latest episode of Immigration with Holy Imagination provides a powerful reminder that hospitality is not simply a virtue. It is a reflection of the heart of Christ.
In the latest episode of Immigration with Holy Imagination, host Krista Idowu sits down with Krista Kartson, vice president of community building and engagement at Welcome.US, to discuss sponsorship, refugee resettlement, and the biblical call to welcome the stranger.
Drawing from her own family story as the granddaughter of Ukrainian refugees, Krista shares how one church sponsor helped her family begin a new life in the United States—and how that single act of welcome created a generational legacy that continues today.
Together, Krista K. and Krista I. (#KristaSquared) explore the Good Samaritan, the ministry of reconciliation, the role of churches in welcoming newcomers, and practical ways everyday people can support immigrants, refugees, and lawful permanent residents pursuing citizenship.
This conversation is a powerful reminder that hospitality is not simply a virtue—it is a reflection of the heart of Christ.
Together, they discuss:
A family story of refuge, displacement, and welcome
How a church sponsor changed a family’s future
The biblical vision of neighboring and hospitality
The Good Samaritan as a model for modern welcome
Sponsorship and newcomer support in the United States
The impact of the Uniting for Ukraine program
Why welcoming benefits both newcomers and communities
Citizenship support and volunteer opportunities
Compassion, unity, and reconciliation in divided times
What a kingdom-aligned immigration system might look like
The episode concludes with a prayer for wisdom, compassion, and a holy imagination for the Church’s role in welcoming newcomers.
Resources Mentioned
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The CCPL For the Good of the Public Journal of Ideas essay
AND Campaign Immigration Action Guide
“Your voice can make a difference” engagement opportunity
Krista Kartson serves as Vice President of Community Building and Engagement, equipping individuals, churches, and organizations to welcome newcomers through sponsorship, volunteerism, and community engagement.
Learn more about our sponsors at Welcome.US
Check out more of our recent episodes from the Immigration with Holy Imagination podcast series below.
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