A New Start for Refugee Women - 2/22

Every refugee has a unique story, but almost all of them share a common need – a safe place to live. Delphine Busch will present the success of a one-year adventure of an unfolding ministry to refugee women, including the joys and challenges. With support from the Sisters of the Holy Names, Mariposa Ministries was founded in 2017 to provide a home and caring support for women who want to succeed.

Mary’s Woods, Cascadia Hall, Dunn Community Center, 17520 Menard St., 7:30 pm

Mariposa Ministries takes its name from a love of butterflies and the hope they symbolize. It is a collection of five women — four refugees and Delphine Busch, a transplant to Oregon from the Midwest — who live together under one roof with the support of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary.

Busch modeled the format and values of Mariposa Ministries after the Holy Names House of Peace in Manitoba, which focuses on creating family for the people who live there. Each woman is encouraged to have career and personal goals, and learning English is a priority.

Mariposa Ministries opened in August 2017, with Catholic Charities identifying each refugee woman as an accepted refugee applicant by the government. Every refugee has a unique story, but almost all of them share a common need – a safe place to live. Community guidelines include requirements to participate in household chores and group activities and get education so that they can be productive members of society. The house is also a sacred place for study, reflection and prayer.