Upholding One Another
/CFNA at the Concordia Seminary Theological Symposium
Each fall, CFNA is invited to share its ministry through an exhibit at Concordia Seminary’s Theological Symposium. This year, CFNA was also blessed to serve as a sponsor of the September 22–23, 36th Annual Theological Symposium, centered on the theme, “I Will Uphold You … with My Righteous Right Hand: Ministry in Mental Health,” (drawn from Isaiah 41:10).
Mental health issues have increased significantly in our communities in the last 25 years. CFNA ministry encounters it among the refugees and immigrants it is privileged to serve. Some arrive in the United States having experienced warfare, persecution, political upheaval, displacement, famine, separation from family, or other forms of trauma. Even after arriving in a place of safety, the challenges of beginning life again in a new country, culture, and language can bring additional stress, anxiety, loneliness, and uncertainty.
Throughout the Symposium many pastors, seminarians, and laypeople stopped by the CFNA exhibit to learn more about the needs and challenges of refugees and immigrants who are making St. Louis their new home and how CFNA is providing assistance to them. Visitors asked whether mental health is a challenge among the people CFNA serves and reflected with us on how the Church can respond with greater awareness, compassion, and care.
The Symposium highlighted the importance of church workers and pastors within the larger work of caring for those experiencing mental-health challenges. Licensed counselors, psychologists, psychiatrists, and other professionals bring important expertise and care. At the same time, pastors and Christian communities are an integral part of this healing process. They offer a listening ear, compassionate presence, prayer, community, and the enduring hope of the gospel. Jesus says, “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly” (John 10:10), and now the Church is called to walk alongside people in their struggles, helping them know that they are seen, valued, and not alone.
CFNA was encouraged by its participation in the Symposium as it shared how its mission is providing an opportunity for the Church and its people to bring Christ’s healing to those from the nations whom God has brought to our community. Through relationships, practical assistance, friendship, and the gospel, CFNA walks alongside our New American neighbors, bringing Christ’s peace to the mind, heart, and soul of those struggling with mental health challenges and comforting them with His light of hope.
Lois, a recent supporter of CFNA who attended the Symposium, captured this connection after spending time at our booth and interacting with participants: “You do important and meaningful work at CFNA. This is what the Church should be doing, and it is wonderful that you are at such places sharing the story of mission among the nations and inviting people to come and be a part of it.”
By Pastor Stanish in consultation with
Gary Schaefer, CFNA Operations Associate
