The role played by faith-based organizations in supporting newcomers to the UK has long been neglected. This article seeks to address this gap by exploring the ways in which churches are working with people seeking asylum. Churches offer support through activities aimed at 'settling' those who have arrived-pastoral care and worship-and efforts aimed at 'unsettling' the established population's attitudes and government policies-awareness-raising and advocacy. As a result, they are often regarded in colloquial terms as 'angels'. The reasons why churches can and do provide such support are explored, in addition to a range of challenges which can inhibit their work. Three features of religious groups are used as a framework for discussion: transcendent motivation, organizational nature and strategies, and resource mobilization. The conclusion suggests directions for further research. © The Author 2011. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved.

Advocacy United Kingdom Church Faith-based organizations Asylum seeker Adaptation

United Kingdom religion church role asylum seeker advocacy