While slowly restoring a run-down part of downtown Oklahoma City through living and working in it, the Refuge is an urban ministry project that builds community from a Christian foundation.
Throughout the year, Oklahoma Christian University students join the Refuge in their restoration projects.
“The goal they work towards is spreading the love of Christ by serving those that are poor and lost in sin and addiction,” first-year student David Kurt said.
Kurt said he enjoys the mission work and is excited about upcoming events.
“They restore the physical aspects of the neighborhood as well as restoring people’s lives… with Christian love and the joy of the Lord,” Kurt said.
The Refuge is a group of people living in a renovated warehouse, previously a high drug traffic area. Junior Elizabeth Rojas lived at the Refuge and said she is anticipating their future plans.
“The Refuge is a community of people who are seeking together what it looks like to really be the church and not just go to church,” Rojas said. “I’ve lived with this community for over a year and a half, and in that time there have been many things that I’ve done. I’ve prayed, I’ve lived, I’ve made people cookies, I’ve taken people to the airport, I’ve cried with, I’ve laughed with, I’ve confessed to and confronted.”
Jeff McMillon, dean of spiritual life, said there is obvious effort in every activity and mission the Refuge is a part of.
“When watching some of the students at OC participate in the outreach programs, I realize that simple acts of kindness in underprivileged communities can really give hope to people that God is still working in their lives,” McMillon said.
McMillon said he experiences the presence of God when he participates in work with the Refuge.
“While you work or do anything with [The] Refuge, you feel the sense of God with you,” McMillon said. “I hope the people that we spent time with and helped out really felt impacted in a good way. Talking to some of the people we encountered made the experience even better.”
Oklahoma Christian occasionally partners with the Refuge to provide kudos for students involved in missions.
“Many have been involved in this non-profit but many more have been impacted,” Kurt said. “[I] hope to continue this good work as long possible because it is so amazing when you are the person who gave some one a smile. I just hope others from OC will contribute to [The] Refuge and find time to give back to the surrounding community.”
More information or how to get involvement with the Refuge is viewable on their website.
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