Christ Gathers His Church
/The Church gathers around the Risen Christ!
Christian Friends of New Americans was blessed to participate in the 69th Regular Convention of the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod, held July 18–23, 2026, in Phoenix, Arizona. Organized around the Convention theme, “Christ is Risen Indeed” (1 Corinthians 15:20–22), the gathering welcomed more than 1,300 voting delegates and over 3,000 attendees from across the Synod.
Through an LCMS RSO Synod Convention Exhibitor Assistance Grant, CFNA was able to participate as an exhibitor and send Pastor Stanish and Pastor Lewi Jermiya to represent the ministry. Throughout the Convention, the CFNA information booth welcomed pastors, delegates, missionaries, church leaders, and members who stopped to learn more about CFNA’s work among immigrants in St. Louis. Many signed up to receive CFNA's Enews, committed to pray for the ministry, and expressed interest in supporting this mission of sharing Christ's love with people from many nations. CFNA was also honored to be recognized in front of the Convention delegates when Rev. Steve Heimer highlighted the work of CFNA during his report on “All Nations” outreach ministry that he leads for the Synod.
For both Pastor Stanish and Pastor Lewi, this was their first opportunity to attend an LCMS Synod Convention. "I am so thankful to the LCMS Grant Office for providing me the opportunity to be part of this Convention," shared Pastor Lewi. "I was amazed to see so many of our church ministries doing gospel work here in our country and throughout the world." Pastor Lewi also had the opportunity to share his own faith & life journey with those who visited the CFNA booth. From arriving in St. Louis as a refugee from Eritrea, to being welcomed and served through CFNA, to preparing for ministry through EIIT, and now serving as pastor of St. Trinity Lutheran Church in St. Louis, Pastor Lewi had a story to tell. His story beautifully reflected God's faithfulness and the life-changing impact of Christ's Church walking alongside those in need.
Beyond our own exhibit, the Convention was an encouraging reminder that CFNA is part of a much larger mission. We were inspired by the many LCMS ministries serving both across the United States and around the world, proclaiming the risen Christ in diverse communities and cultures. It was a blessing to learn from fellow ministries, build new relationships, and celebrate the many ways God is advancing His Kingdom through His Church.
We thank the LCMS, the RSO Exhibitor Assistance Grant program, and everyone who visited our booth and encouraged our ministry. Thank you for your prayers and support. We returned home encouraged and reminded that together, as the Body of Christ, we proclaim the good news of Jesus to all nations - "Declare His glory among the nations, His marvelous works among all the peoples!" – Psalm 96:3
By Pastor Stanish Stanley
CFNA
