1st Congregational of Southington Hosts “Building Bridges: Portraits of Immigrants and Refugees”

First Congregational Church of Southington invites the community to experience Building Bridges: Portraits of Immigrants and Refugees, a temporary photography and storytelling exhibit on display at the church through October 18.

Created by Family Diversity Projects, Building Bridges shares photographs and interviews with people who have come to the United States as immigrants and refugees from countries around the world. Through personal stories and compelling portraits, the exhibit seeks to challenge harmful myths and stereotypes while inviting viewers to encounter the humanity, courage, hopes, and experiences of immigrants and refugees.

The exhibit has been brought to First Congregational Church by the church’s Social Action Team, which has been engaging the congregation in education and advocacy around justice issues affecting immigrants and immigrant communities.

“Our faith calls us to see the humanity and dignity of every person and to listen to one another’s stories,” said Rev. Laura Kisthardt, Associate Pastor of First Congregational Church of Southington. “We are grateful to our Social Action Team for helping to bring this exhibit to Southington and creating an opportunity for our congregation and wider community to learn more about the experiences of immigrants and refugees. We hope these portraits invite people to look beyond headlines and political debates and encounter the real people and stories at the heart of these issues.”

First Congregational Church will host a free community reception on Friday, September 18, at 6:30 p.m. The reception will take place on the second floor of the church in Rooms 201/202 and will offer an opportunity to view the exhibit and gather in community.

The exhibit is free and open to the public and may be viewed during the following hours:

●      Monday–Friday: 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.

●      Sundays: 8:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

Building Bridges: Portraits of Immigrants and Refugees will remain on display at First Congregational Church of Southington through October 18.

Building Bridges Community ReceptionFriday, September 18 at 6:30 p.m.First Congregational Church of SouthingtonSecond Floor, Rooms 201/202.