CFNA’s Beautiful Game
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Editor’s Note (courtesy of Rev. Dr. Stanish Stanley): On Saturday, June 28th, CFNA organized its first soccer game for CFNA kids and youth at Salem Lutheran Church’s soccer field. Led by Rev. Tony Boos and support coaches, Charles Nshimiyimana, Senaf, and Vincent, around 15 CFNA children (including 2 kids from Salem Lutheran) attended…The soccer program will be organized every other Saturday (twice a month) targeting deeper engagement with refugee kids and their families. Thank you, Rev. Wayne Heubener, Salem Lutheran, Rev. Tony Boos and CFNA soccer coaches!
There is a reason they call soccer – or fútbol – the “Beautiful Game.” In my opinion, it doesn't have much to do with the game itself, but the beautiful people who play it! God’s word says “I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully [or beautifully and marvelously] made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well” (Psalm 139:14).
I’m Rev. Tony Boos, the 1st called missionary at CFNA, privileged to return to St. Louis after 18 years. It is an honor to continue to serve God, particularly through CFNA, which continues its work to fulfill John 15:15-16 by befriending refugees from around the world and bringing Jesus into these relationships. I specifically have served in this ministry by leading a group of kids interested in soccer.
As a coach, my goal is to provide a soccer training experience that accomplishes two objectives: first, to equip young aspiring coaches how to lead (I have a U.S. Soccer Federation national coaching license); and second, to teach refugee kids the game of soccer and share the Gospel of Jesus Christ!
I’m thankful to all the partnerships and contributions made toward this program—especially CFNA volunteers who faithfully pray and participate; young adult coaches who dedicate their time and expertise; churches like Immanuel and New Wells, MO, who gave specifically to make this happen; Impact City F.C., a Christian travel soccer club who donated balls and shirts; and Salem Lutheran Church who provide the facilities and players! I’m also grateful to CFNA’s Executive Director, Rev. Stanish Stanley, who supports this endeavor.
What a joy it is to share the Good News to beautifully made children from Congo, Rwanda, Afghanistan, Tanzania, Uganda, the U.S., and more! It is a truly beautiful thing to see them all come together on a soccer field – to play, learn, grow and, of course, have fun playing the “Beautiful Game”!
By Rev. Tony Boos
