Karibu! A Joyful Welcome to the Malumba Family
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Click images to enlargeEditor’s Note: In early 2025, Pastor Timothy Staffeld at Epiphany Lutheran Church connected with a CFNA family, the Mulumbas. Since then, Epiphany’s congregation has been blessed to share the love of Christ with this family while also learning their language and culture. Read on to learn more about this exciting development.
“Karibu! Welcome!”
The new phrase is one example of how Epiphany Lutheran Church is changing and welcoming new friends to its congregation. To welcome in the Mulumba family, the congregation has been learning their native language, Swahili, by incorporating one new Swahili word each week through worship or Bible study.
Epiphany first connected with the Mulumba family through a partnership event between CFNA and Epiphany Hair & Care Salon. It was here that Rev. Dr. Stanish Stanley brought the family to receive hair care and join in for worship. The all-day adventure brought joy and a fresh look to everyone – the Mulumba family all looked great with their new braids!
Since their first visit to the church, the Mulumba family has not missed a single Sunday worship service or event at Epiphany Lutheran. When the Mulumba family asked if someone from the church could provide a television for their home, Don Fassold, a congregation member, gladly sprung into action. He donated a TV, installed necessary equipment, and instructed the family how to use it.
What a joy to have the Mulumbas join Epiphany! The congregation is committed to growing with them by sharing the love and care of Jesus with them. Likewise, it is certain that the Mulumba family will continue to bless, teach new things, and care for their new church family.
Karibu – Welcome – to the Mulumba family!
By Pastor Timothy Staffeld
