Global Refuge Pastor-in-Residence Eric Shafer to Speak in Carefree
Christ the Lord Lutheran Church in Carefree invites congregations and community members to a free forum and Sunday worship with the Rev. Eric C. Shafer, pastor-in-residence at Global Refuge. Pastor Shafer will share insights into refugee resettlement around the world and practical ways Lutherans can accompany refugees, immigrants and asylum seekers.
The weekend’s events will take place at Christ the Lord Lutheran Church, 9205 E. Cave Creek Road, Carefree, Arizona:
Saturday, October 3, 2026, 2–4 p.m.: Forum followed by a wine and cheese reception in Nelles Hall
Sunday, October 4, 2026, 9 a.m.: Pastor Shafer preaching during worship
At Saturday’s forum, Pastor Shafer will introduce the mission and work of Global Refuge, formerly Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service. He will offer examples of the organization’s ministry, explain how congregations can become partners and suggest steps leaders and members can take to embody Lutheran accompaniment in their communities. The program will include time for questions and informal conversation.
For more than 85 years, Global Refuge has worked with congregations across the country to welcome and support refugees, immigrants and asylum seekers through resettlement and long-term integration.
Pastor Shafer’s ministry has included service as a senior pastor and as communications director for the ELCA churchwide organization. His experience also includes helping develop the first U.S. shelter for college students experiencing homelessness, teaching in Madagascar and South Africa, traveling to Jerusalem and the West Bank, and hosting the YouTube program Hope Matters.
Rooted in God’s grace, Lutherans understand welcome as more than hospitality alone. Accompaniment calls us to walk alongside our neighbors, listen to their experiences and participate in God’s work of reconciliation, compassion and justice. This weekend offers congregations concrete ways to deepen that ministry.
The Saturday forum and reception are free. RSVP by Friday, October 2, by emailing admin@ctlcarefree.org with your name and the number attending. No RSVP information was provided for Sunday worship.