LCEF Service Day
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Christian Friends of New Americans was richly blessed on June 17th as nearly 35 volunteers from the Lutheran Church Extension Fund (LCEF) dedicated a full day of service to helping improve the new CFNA Peace Center for future ministry initiatives. The LCEF team’s visit, consisting of volunteers from the St. Louis region and also others from as far as Minnesota, reflected a long-standing partnership with CFNA that has faithfully supported the ministry since 2018, when their generous donations helped launch CFNA’s annual Christmas Give-Away.
As CFNA’s summer intern, I had the opportunity to work with this amazing group of adults and reflect on how God brought these people together from different places, backgrounds, and congregations to serve with one heart and purpose. The day began with Pastor Stanish sharing the story of CFNA's ministry. LCEF volunteers learned how the Peace Center serves as a place of welcome, friendship, practical assistance, and gospel proclamation for New American families from many nations.
Following the presentation, the volunteers worked on projects put together by CFNA Staff – Mrs. Amy. The group worked willingly and tirelessly in parts of the building without air conditioning, and together they transformed the lobby where CFNA plans to have an affordable Thrift store that will serve refugee families. The team also painted the outer nursery wall, and refreshed the multipurpose room in the basement. This space hosts worship, fellowship, and celebrations for New American families. LCEF men assembled planter beds and picnic tables, while others deep-cleaned carpets and surfaces. They were also very ingenious in providing paint, wallpaper removal supplies, and baseboards for the remodeling of the front lobby.
Devin, one of the LCEF volunteers, reflected on the day by saying - "It was great hearing about the work that you do. This is an important ministry, and we enjoyed our time serving and blessing a worthy mission cause." CFNA Operations Associate Mr. Gary was equally grateful for the volunteers' dedication - "The LCEF group was tremendous. They were willing to jump into every project and were a huge blessing for our new space.”
What stood out the most for me was the spirit of service that filled the building that day. From the painting to the assembly of planter beds and picnic tables, the work reflected care for the families who will use the space. Through teamwork, fellowship, and a shared purpose, God worked through ordinary tasks to help prepare a place where extraordinary ministry will happen.
CFNA is deeply grateful for LCEF’s faithful partnership, generous support, and servant-hearted volunteers. This day was a reminder that when God’s people come together, He multiplies their efforts and creates something wonderful that will bless the families we serve and create new opportunities to share the hope of Jesus in the years to come – “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” (1 Peter 4:10)
By Ruth Buckman
CFNA – Summer Intern
