Health and Wellness

Dolma gurung (ascension Lutheran Church) serving as nepali interpreter for judy streufert, Rn (concordia kirkwood)

The threatening weather held off, and the Lord provided a beautiful morning for our March Health and Wellness screening. We continue to be blessed by the many willing volunteer workers that make our screenings possible.

Pastor Stanish opened the morning with an encouraging devotion based on Jesus’ feeding thousands with limited bread and fish. In addition to the spiritual needs, Jesus was concerned about the physical needs of the people. Pastor Stanish reminded us that we too, by helping the refugees at the screening, provide assistance for the physical needs of our fellow man. Our service is helpful, needed, and following Christ’s example.

Making multiple trips, four dedicated volunteer drivers brought most of the clients to the screening (the average is now between 25 and 30 per screening), and took them home afterwards.

Four volunteer translators, refugees themselves, helped to translate for our Nepali-speaking clients. Such assistance is invaluable for all—the clients, the registrars, and the practitioners. Gagan Gurung was available for translation help throughout the morning as well.

With welcoming smiles, three individuals helped with registration. Two of these volunteers are students at Saint Louis University.

Barb hartung (Ascension lutheran church) Rn, and client

Five dedicated practitioners—one physician and four nurses—volunteered their time to examine the clients. The practitioners’ insight affords clients information about their health and enables us to assist in accessing follow-up care.

After the screening, working in partnership with the International Institute and various local schools, we are able to refer identified needs, and initiate medical appointments for those seen at the screenings.

Of course, without the diligent efforts of Gagan Gurung and Richard Leigh, we would not have many clients to serve. They meet and make connections ahead of time with many of the families and individuals that come to the screenings. This initial contact enables the screening process to run more smoothly than it otherwise would, and connects them to Christian Friends of New Americans.

We look forward to our upcoming screenings. Audiologist Amy Krueger, Hear USA, will continue to assist in providing hearing screenings. Dr. Kriendler, Intero Health Care, will provide bone scans at our May screening.

By: Laura Brink (Ascension Lutheran Church)

Valentine’s Day Party 2014

Isatta enjoys a party treat

Volunteers from Webster Gardens and Bethlehem Lutheran Churches celebrated Valentine’s Day on Saturday, February 8, 2014 at the Peace Center on South Grand with 23 refugee kids from kindergarten to grade 6. The Valentine’s Day program was organized by volunteers from Webster Gardens Lutheran Church along with their Pastor of Children’s Ministry, Rev. Brian King, and leaders and students from Bethlehem Lutheran Church. The party started at 1:00 p.m. with children of various nationalities registering and then proceeding to the Chapel for a time of gathering with Pastor King. Chapel time included singing of songs of praise and a message of God’s love in Christ Jesus for all people. Everyone had a great afternoon of fellowship, playing games such as Bingo, making Valentine cards, decorating cupcakes etc. The joy of kids along with the helpful interactions of volunteers made the occasion a truly memorable one for all present.

Making valentines

At the center of this celebration was the message of “sharing and love” exhibited by the volunteers from Webster Gardens and Bethlehem Lutheran Churches. Through their interaction with Peace Center kids, believers from these churches reminded the children that in spite of our different ethnicities, God’s people consider it a blessing to spend time and share their resources with others in need. The party was a witness to the truth that God in Christ is our true “Valentine” for He has laid down His life in love for all, as all are in need of redemption from sin. God loves little children, including those who have been uprooted from their native land. God welcomes the Peace Center kids to be a part of His great community of “sharing and love.”

By Rev. Stanish Stanley

Heart to Heart Sisters Meet at the Peace Center

The nepali singers

Fun, fellowship, ethnic appetizers and a Bible study, “Naomi, Ruth and Me” was the agenda followed as thirty-one ladies from twelve countries gathered on January 18, 2014. A light snowfall, beautiful ethnic dresses, laughter and smiles, Nepali music and singing mixed with a medley of accents marked the first Heart to Heart Sisters meeting at the Peace Center

Heart to Heart sisters

.Heart to Heart Sisters is the branch of the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League (LWML) that focuses on welcoming immigrant, refugee, and minority group women and encourages them to share their faith journey, their rich heritage, and their spiritual strength. Many of these women have gone through the fires of persecution, loneliness, and tragedy. They are strong women that will encourage and enrich our church. We are honored by the presence of these young women, these moms, and these matriarchs. We are honored, too, by the presence of a sprinkling of LWML ladies with “international hearts” joining these friends from around the world.

By Carol Buckman

Govinda Ghalley - New American Of The Month

NEW AMERICAN OF THE MONTH

Now 18 years of age, Govinda arrived in St. Louis three years ago together with his parents, a brother and a sister. Govinda and his family were relocated to the USA as refugees from Nepal, and came to St. Louis as followers of the Hindu tradition. A little over a year ago all of them were baptized at Messiah Lutheran Church and are now members of that congregation. Now a member of the Church Council, Govinda credits the Home Bible Study led by Rev. Sam Thompson as the gateway to his baptism and membership at Messiah.

A few months ago, Govinda became involved with CFNA in the capacity of Facilitator for its Adopt A Student scholarship program. As such, he is responsible for assisting the children of New Americans, especially those from Nepal, with enrollment in Word of Life Lutheran School and the recently established Eagle Prep charter school. Led by Dr. Matt Hoehner, Eagle Prep meets on the campus of the former King of Glory Lutheran School located adjacent to St. Johns Lutheran Church.

Govinda is also enrolled in a pre EIIT (Ethnic Immigrant Institute of Theology) class taught by Dr. Hoehner. EIIT is the certification program established by Concordia Seminary for the purpose of providing a route to ordination for lay leaders, primarily New Americans. Govinda plans to enroll in the EIIT program this fall.

If you were to ask Govinda, he would be quick to tell you his dream is to become a Lutheran pastor. Please join us in welcoming Govinda to ministry among New Americans.

Twenty-One Baptisms and One Adult Confirmation of Nepali Christians Celebrated

One of the main aspects of the season of Epiphany is the recognition that Jesus Christ is the Savior who has come for all nations. This wonderful truth was very much evident at Ascension Lutheran Church in St. Louis on Sunday, January 12 during the congregation's 11 am service where 21 Nepali worshipers were baptized and one adult, Gagan Gurung, was confirmed.

Over the past three years, Christian Friends of New Americans (CFNA) helped connect these new Americans from Nepal to Ascension for Word and Sacrament ministry. Thanks to the dedication of many lay volunteers, 20-25 Nepali worshipers get a ride to and from worship at Ascension each Sunday morning. At Ascension, Nepali Christians participate in a bilingual Bible study, worship, and enjoy fellowship.

The partnership between CFNA and Ascension is reminiscent of the apostle Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 3:6-7, “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth. So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth.”

Individuals from CFNA, Ascension, and the Nepali community have labored among this group of immigrants, and yet God is the One who has given this growth. May the Lord of the harvest continue to bless the work of CFNA and the congregations with which they partner!

By: Rev. Matt Clark, Ascension Lutheran Church

Photos by LCMS Communications/Eric M. Lunsford

See all the pictures at the LCMS Photo Site.

Christmas at Holy Cross

Mandira Tamang, Buddhi Tamang, Beki guragai

There was joy. Resounding, loud, wild, excited joy filled the hallways and old classrooms of the school building at Holy Cross Lutheran Church. The world was there in all sorts of accents and colors—and there was joy.

Approximately 70 children and adults gathered on Monday December 16th to celebrate the Joy of the Christ child with Christmas festivities. Warm food and drink started the evening off as youth and adults visited, sharing conversation and even some sharing their dinners. Youth divided into age groups and created ornament crafts as well as playing games and transforming friends into tissue paper Christmas trees!

Joy continued as the group marched over to the Holy Cross sanctuary, pouring itself out in songs and scripture readings. Pastor Bob Bernhardt shared a message of hope and trust reflecting on the good plan of God to send a Savior to our broken world, and someday restore our full joy in His New Creation. Children cheered as heartfelt thank yous were shared with tutors and leaders of CFNA. The evening closed as children received gifts donated by Village Lutheran Church and SLU’s Filipino Student Association, and then skipped away with siblings and chaperones taking joyful hearts home to share!

The Lord has come and the Lord is coming—Joy to the World!

By:  Sarah Bernhardt

Space Heaters for New Americans

gagan gurung, Mani gurung

During the recent cold snap, with wind chill temperatures at times nearly -30 degrees, sufficient heat in homes and apartments became a genuine concern. In response to a CFNA appeal sent out shortly before Christmas, 30 space heaters were received from numerous generous donors. Each heater was received with much gratitude.

Through the good efforts of CFNA volunteers and facilitators, especially Mr. Gagan Gurung, these were distributed to New American families either prior to or during the cold weather. It is estimated approximately 125 New Americans were the beneficiaries of this effort. A majority of the recipients had arrived in St. Louis from refugee camps in Nepal within the past six months. All credit to Gagan for quickly identifying the most needy families.

As with all refugees, they arrived with very little.  In addition, some were experiencing heating problems, as was the family of Mani Gurung. His rented home had been without heat for the previous three days, forcing the family to move in with others.

For Mani and all the recipients, the heaters were received as a most fitting Christmas gift from those in the Lutheran community who took this opportunity to be of service, responding as Christian friends.

Nepali Singers Surprise TRIVIA NIGHT Attendees

By Bonnie Matzat — Photos by Ron Virus

CFNA held its sixth annual Trivia Night on Saturday, November 16th, at Webster Gardens Lutheran Church and with approximately 225 participants; it was their largest Trivia Event to date. Significant for CFNA, the number of New American participants was also the largest – perhaps 30 or more. To the delight of everyone, Nepali Singers led by Gagan Gurung sang Thy Loving Kindness in Nepali and in English, and captured the essence of CFNA.

Pastor Joel Christiansen welcomed the attendees who enjoyed a light supper of chili and snacks. Following the meal, trivia competition and bingo games began. Joanie Harwell and Stanish Stanley read this year’s trivia questions. Jerry and Joyce Birk served as bingo callers. Throughout the evening, a silent auction was held. There was a grand offering of sale baskets, gift certificates, and an assortment of useful and interesting items.

Many helping hands contributed to the success of the evening. Volunteers sought donated items for the silent auction and picked them up, prepared food, organized auction items, managed ticket sales, set up tables and chairs, and served in various other ways. CFNA extends its sincere thanks to each and every one of them.

CFNA is especially grateful to the congregation of Webster Gardens Lutheran Church for the use of their facilities and for their helpful support. Appreciation is also expressed to the Christ for Youth Charities Foundation and to several Thrivent chapters providing matching funds.

Thanks to all who came, all who served, and to other generous donors!

Thanks OGT!

With 18 branches, the Orphan Grain Train network extends across the nation, and their reach is global. During approximately 20 years of ministry they have provided assistance to children in Uganda, students in Trinidad, orphans in Mongolia – and many more! The Scripture passage undergirding the ministry is from John 14:18 “I will not leave you as orphans.”

Though initial efforts began by sending shipments of grain and goods to the Former Soviet Union, OGT also operates a center in St. Louis located on the premises of the former Concordia Seminary campus on Jefferson Avenue.

From this facility they provide many items local churches, food pantries or mission societies need in their efforts to assist the underserved, including growing numbers of immigrants and refugees (primarily refugees) now residing in urban St. Louis.

During the past five years OGT has partnered with CFNA for outreach to these New Americans. Their steady supply of food items, warm winter clothing, medical supplies, small appliances and more have been gratefully received by numerous recipients. To be sure, this plays a vital role in CFNA’s “quick link” initiatives; i.e., the commitment to link with New American families as soon as possible upon their arrival in urban St. Louis.

OGT is blessed with approximately 30 volunteers who serve on a regular basis, thereby enabling this mission agency to move tons of needed supplies through their facility on a monthly basis.

Questions or donations?  Contact chairman Robert Eggers at 314-856-0537.

Again, THANKS OGT!

From information provided by Mel and Carolyn Stortz, members of Faith Lutheran Church, Oakville.

Students of the Month

By Judith Meyer

If you are talking with Karina (age 12) and Spencer (age 9) Ferguson, you would never guess that 3 years ago, they lived in a small town about two hours from Tegucigalpa, Honduras, the capitol city, and spoke only Spanish. They and their parents moved to St. Louis to join their grandparents and other family members. One reason for coming was to help care for their grandma, who is in a wheelchair. Initially, they went to a public school, but the Adopt a Student scholarships they both have received enabled them to transfer to Green Park Lutheran School in Fall 2012. They live quite close to the school and their family has joined Resurrection Lutheran Church, where their baby sister was baptized.

Karina and Spencer’s mom served as a translator for doctors and other professionals before their baby sister was born last year. Their dad owns a roofing firm. A cousin from Honduras has been visiting for the last month; he is here in St. Louis visiting colleges with the plan to attend college somewhere in the United States next year.

Karina’s favorite subject at Green Park is literature, which is not surprising since her favorite activity is reading fiction. Karina really likes Green Park, not only because she has lots of friends, but because she likes how they teach—“I understand more.”  Spencer likes that Green Park is smaller, less crowded, so he can actually know more people. He sings in the Green Park Choir, and is a member of the LEGO Club. Spencer’s favorite out of school activity is playing with LEGOS, whether alone or with friends, and he plans to be a builder when he grows up.

Both Karina and Spencer expressed thanks for the scholarships which enable them to attend Green Park Lutheran School.

Thank You Abiding Savior!

Steve and Blake wofford install handrails

One of the enthusiastic SendMe teams from Abiding Savior Lutheran Church in South County (4355 Butler Hill Rd., STL 63128) served at the Peace Center on Saturday, October 19. The help they gave CFNA was amazing, and the cheerful cooperation of the seventeen men, women, teenagers, and children on the team was a joy to see. Look what was accomplished by the SendMe team:

• The Peace Center received an attack of “deep cleaning” on all 3 floors, creating a freshness throughout the building by the end of the day.

• Construction work in the lower level included installing attractive paneling in the art room—very nice! Two handrails were added for safety on basement stairs. Adjustments to the restroom will prevent possible leakage and improve the lighting. A pine doorframe in the basement was sanded.

• On the main floor, ceiling tiles were replaced.

• Outdoors, concrete was poured to extend of the concrete ramp to the parking pad. Trees were trimmed. Weeds were pulled. Exterior windowsills where paint was peeling were scraped and painted. Missing screws were replaced in the benches on the deck.

During the team's lunch break, they participated in a devotional Bible study with the Christian Friends of New Americans leaders present. Another part of the SendMe mission was to distribute “Random Acts of Kindness” items, Life Books, and money to bless someone at the work site or in the surrounding community.

A teenage team member used his smartphone to send pictures taken of the servant event at the Peace Center to another service team creating a power point “collage” for the 29 teams at work throughout the St. Louis area. To conclude the day, CFNA leaders, Rev. Stanish Stanley, Rev. John Loum, & Mr. Rich Leigh, were among those who joined the teams at Abiding Savior for a meal and praise service.

The full day’s agenda for Abiding Savior’s SendMe included breakfast, packing lunches, announcements, and worship at the church from 7:00 to 8:30 a.m.; traveling and working at sites, 8:30-4:00; barbecue supper at church with guests from the work sites, 4:30; celebration reports and praise service, 5:30 to 7:00.

Again, our thanks to the Servant Team from Abiding Savior for their great work at the Peace Center, and for their partnership in reaching out to New Americans!

By Ruth Mattson

Betty Bass - Student of The Month

Betty Bass, an eighth grader at Word of Life, came to St. Louis from Sierra Leone when she was five years old. She, her mother and baby brother joined her grandmother, grandfather and several aunts and uncles, who had come to St. Louis several months earlier. She remembers very little about Sierra Leone, including the language she spoke there, although now she speaks Creole, which helps her communicate with fellow immigrants from Sierra Leone. Her father and her three older brothers remain in Sierra Leone and she has not seen them since she left eight years ago.

Betty attended Scruggs Elementary for kindergarten through second grade, which is where she learned English. She transferred to Word of Life for third grade and is debating between Lutheran South, Gateway Science Academy and Central Academy for the Arts for high school.

Drawing and fashion design are favorite activities for Betty, who is considering a career in fashion design. She is learning to sew, and has several books that allow her to design clothing for paper models. She also loves music—hip hop, gospel and rap—and sings in the Word of Life Choir; she dreams of being a female rapper and singer. Another career option she is considering is teaching. Right now she plays basketball, and expects Word of Life to have a good girls’ team this year.

She is in confirmation class at Timothy Lutheran Church, where she is also an active member of the Junior Youth Group. Occasionally she joins the Tagloma Fellowship for their Saturday evening gatherings at the Peace Center organized by Gerald Brewah, although most of the people who participate are adults.

By Dr. Judith Meyer

Dr. Maze Bi Ndukum - Volunteer of the Month

My name is Gerald Brewah, Facilitator for the CFNA Scholarship Program, originally from Sierra Leone, West Africa. It is my delight and honor to introduce to CFNA E-News readers one of the newest members of the CFNA family (and volunteer of the month). She is Dr. Maze Bi Ndukum, a postdoctoral trainee at Washington University. Maze is one of the few female scientists in the diaspora hailing from Africa and I believe her involvement with CFNA will send a strong and positive message to all New Americans, particularly women, to seriously consider the study of science. Without a doubt, science is not only meant for boys, but for girls too.

It has been recently reported that St. Louis has the potential to become one of the fastest growing tech centers in the nation, not unlike Silicon Valley of just a couple decades ago. Moreover, St. Louis could remain strongly competitive because it has some of the finest universities in the nation. I therefore hope CFNA and Dr. Maze will continue to encourage the young minds of New Americans to consider science as a field of study. Here is what Dr. Maze Bi Ndukum wishes to share with our readers:

“I was born and raised in the city of Bamenda located in the Northwest Province of Cameroon, West Africa. I had the privilege to attend a Catholic elementary school for 4 years, it was great time in my life. My parents raised us in the Catholic Church. Due to financial constraints however, my parents had me transferred to the public school. Because of the initial exposure to early Christian education, I always wanted to go back. So my parents let me attend a Catholic high school called St Augustine’s college Nso, and this is where I received my High School diploma in 1997. I enrolled at the University of Buea, in Cameroon where I studied for a Bachelor of Science and later a Master in Science degree in Microbiology. I developed a deep interest in science. Shortly thereafter, I received an opportunity to attend graduate school to study for a PhD at Saint Louis University, which I received with great joy.

“Presently, I am a postdoctoral trainee at the Genome Institute’s Human Microbiome Project laboratory at Washington University School of Medicine here in St Louis. As a research trainee, I am receiving training to become a Research Scientist. Specifically, I am studying the effectiveness of the pneumococcal vaccine given to children in two developing countries — The Gambia in Africa and Bangladesh in Asia. This is a very interesting study that has prospects to help reduce disease burden in these places. It is also a great opportunity for me as I get a chance to experience what it takes to set up and carry out international collaborative research.

“I learned about CFNA during a conversation with Pastor John Loum. With his encouragement our son started attending school at Word of Life Lutheran School, and we are honored that our son is a recipient of the CFNA scholarship this year. When I can, I like to speak with other children about the work I do now, to inspire them to think positively of their future. To this effect, my children and I recently enjoyed being part of the Peace Center Tutoring program for a science presentation to the students about DNA extraction from strawberries.

“I have had several challenges in life including moving from Cameroon to St Louis and adapting to life here as a student, new wife, and new mother. However, my most recent challenging experience is still on going. My family recently went through a divorce. This has been a very difficult time for us, really devastating for our family and so hard to watch our children suffer for what they did not cause and for them to feel pain they did not deserve. I say so because my parents are still together after 45 years of marriage, and I had many negative feelings, like feeling that I failed my children. This experience has also helped me and our children to draw close to God. I gradually have learnt to rely on God’s Word. I felt we are lost with no family and I have been consoled by God’s Word in Psalm 68:6 which says “God places the lonely in families; He sets the prisoners free and gives them joy.” I feel that God has answered our prayers and has placed us in several families, of which the CNFA family is one of them.

“It is a blessing for me to be the mother of three wonderful children; Nevin, Nina-Annette, and Lisa. With them, Aunty Frunwi and our extended family, I have the most enjoyable experiences. My children are still very young and they need me a lot now and I enjoy very much doing things with them and watching them grow.”

Note: Dr. Ndukum and her family attend worship services at Timothy, and occasionally Ascension, Lutheran Churches.

By Dr. Maze Bi Ndukum with Mr. Gerald Brewah

CFNA Welcomes Mr. Charlie Caciano

Please help CFNA welcome Mr. Charlie Caciano as its new Treasurer, replacing Carrie Duesenberg who now serves as Business Manger.

 By way of introduction, Charlie serves as a Senior Partner of Morgan Consulting LC, which he founded 13 years ago. He earned his M.B.A. with an emphasis in finance from Webster University, and holds a B.B.A. from McKendree University. Charlie has been a licensed certified public accountant since 1983.

He recently served The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod (LCMS) as Chief Financial Officer for the Concordia University System (CUS) comprised of ten colleges and universities located across the country, and as Director of Financial Affairs for The LCMS Board for Higher Education (BHE) consisting of two seminaries. During this time, he was also appointed as Chief Operating Officer of Concordia University in Ann Arbor, Michigan to lead a team to position the university for future growth.

Charlie has also served on numerous non-profit boards in Missouri and Illinois, and currently serves as a co-captain for Team Caciano, a volunteer cycling team that raises funds to support cancer research.

He is married to Marcia and they have four children: Adam, Darcey, Caroline and Reed. They are members of Concordia Lutheran Church, Kirkwood.

Again Charlie, WELCOME!

CFNA Golf Event

will woelzlein, keith beier, mark kiessling

“FORE!” rang across the rolling green hills graced by gorgeous puffs of white in a brilliant blue sky. The putter of golf carts mixed with the sounds of chirping birds, and jolly banter filled the green of the Norman K. Probstein Golf Course at Forest Park in St. Louis on September 25. CFNA hosted their inaugural golf benefit complete with a putting contest, deli luncheon, ethnic food tent, delightful dinner, raffle, prizes, and of course—plenty of golf! The course was dotted with signs that explained the CFNA ministry, and while snapping pictures throughout the day I was approached by numerous other golfers (not with the event) eager to find out more about our efforts.

Eighty one golfers participated in the festivities, with a repeating chorus of comments at dinner affirming, “What a wonderful event and turn out, we can’t wait to invite more next year!” CFNA extends its sincere appreciation to all who participated and to the hard-working committee.

By Sarah Bernhardt

Baptisms at Messiah

Sunday, September 8 was special as three members of the Bhutanese community, who have been attending worship services at Messiah Lutheran Church, were baptized and officially became part of God’s family, drowning their old sinful self and bringing to life a new self dedicated to God. They are Giri Basnet, Bhim Basnet, and Ganga Bhandary, all of whom have been active in a Home Bible Study, and with whom initial contact was made through the ministries of CFNA. As each came forward to be baptized you could see their joy of anticipation as they looked forward to receiving their new life in Christ.

Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.  The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.” (Acts 2:38-39).

This Bible verse accurately describes what happened Sunday, and the baptism demonstrated how God welcomes all into his family regardless of race or gender.  Hopefully their example will serve as a beacon to guide others who remain skeptical to God’s love and sacrifice for all.

By Jonathon Okine

Festival of Nations

Buddhi Tamang, jerry birk, joyce birk, rev. eddie mekasha, mandira tamang

On August 24 and 25 the International Institute again sponsored the annual Festival of Nations event in Tower Grove Park. With more than 100 ethnic communities represented and over 125,000 participants, this almost certainly represented the largest diversity event, not only in St. Louis, but in the Midwest as well.

For the fifth consecutive year CFNA was among those invited to provide an exhibit, one of the few faith-based organizations asked to do so. During the two-day Festival more than 300 people stopped by to enquire about CFNA and an even larger number of brochures were distributed. Several signed up to be included in the distribution list for the monthly CFNA E-Newsletter.

We extend our thanks to Ann Crosslin (CEO), and the staff of the International Institute for featuring CFNA on their exhibit list. Our thanks also to Rev. Eddie Mekasha, Jerry and Joyce Birk, New Americans Buddhi and Mandera Tamang, and several other volunteers who helped staff the exhibit for the two days.

From information provided by Rev. Eddie Mekasha

Art Exhibit

Self Portrait. Danait Gebremedhen (Ethiopia), age 11, no previous art experience.

The scent of injera (Ethiopia) and Tikil (Nepal) Gomen mixed with African rice and spicy salsa wafted across the kitchen, delighting the appetites of visitors as they contemplatively paged through a long line of sketchbooks. Drawings, paintings, sketches, writing, thoughts, feelings, wants, filled the pages of 15 books that started the summer empty and ended overflowing.

August 16th CFNA hosted an open house art exhibition for the students who participated in Intersect—a summer program that used art as a catalyst to empower, teach, and build relationships. The youth experienced basic drawing and painting techniques, sketching people and animals from life, block printing, dry point etching, as well as photography and film. Over the course of three months we explored the topics of belonging, identity, community and storytelling. We practiced a range of skills from rendering techniques, to developing content, to constructive critique. We focused on extending our attention span for visual thinking and critical reflection. Over 30 youth participated throughout the summer with 15 showing in our exhibition and about 50 people including students, families and volunteers and community members celebrated at our open house.

The exhibition focused on sharing that process. The process of seeing and making. The process of connecting and growing. The sketchbooks revealed our students’ very inner discovery and commitment to thinking, practicing and creating. Each day of art class students took time to work in their sketchbooks exploring whatever was on their minds, practicing skills, or responding to prompts. The walls of the basement art room at the Peace Center were covered in a mass of colors and shapes and marks. In the transition space of the hallway upstairs we projected two films created collaboratively by the youth; one an ‘idea map’ about belonging and the other a gestural performance about the paradox of childhood play and violence. In the upstairs space we shared a wonderful international buffet, our well-worn sketchbooks and a very personal film from a high school student, Lewam, about her history as an Eritrean refugee.

This was the process of creating a place to belong. This was the process of making art and relationships. These were the processes of building a community that loves one another as Christ has loved us. This is the process of learning to know Jesus.

We hope to continue weekend classes during the year- please contact Sarah Bernhardt if you are interested in being involved! Check out the Intersect Project website for contact information, to find out more, and view some of our art!  http://www.intersectstl.com/

Bhutanese Elders at Messiah

rev. Michael okine, tara basnet, govinda ghalley, rev. will miller

Messiah Lutheran Church recently added two Bhutanese men to their board of elders. This was done to ensure that the needs of the Bhutanese refugee community in St. Louis (now more than 1,000, located mostly in south City) are constantly before the pastoral staff and remain a priority for the elders. The two men are Tara Basnet and Govinda Ghalley.

Tara and his family became baptized members of Messiah on August 21, 2011. Govinda became a baptized member shortly thereafter. Formerly of the Hindu faith, both arrived in the USA three years ago and settled in St. Louis. Their initial contact with Messiah was through a Home Bible Study in Tara’s home initiated by CFNA in partnership with Messiah Lutheran Church.Both were approached by the pastoral staff to serve as elders because of their maturing Christian faith. Their consistent and reliable support for both Pastor Will Miller and Rev. Sam Thompson as they continue work among the Bhutanese as part of Messiah’s larger outreach to South City has been greatly appreciated.

We wish the very best for Tara and Govinda as they undertake their new responsibilities, and may our Lord bless Messiah Lutheran as it continues its outreach efforts among New Americans.

From information by Rev. Will Miller

Vacation Bible School

With over 40 registered students between grades K and 6 from six birth nations (Nepal, Eritrea, Mexico, Ethiopia, Iraq and Sudan), the 2013 VBS got off to a great start. During the three day event (July 15-17), 33 of those registered participated at least once, but most were present for all three days.

Webster Gardens Lutheran Church again partnered with CFNA for this special cross cultural ministry event, providing curriculum materials with a focus on the prophet Jonah, large group programs, snacks and nine staff members led by Rev. Brian King.

CFNA was pleased to provide a similar number of staff members, many of whom were New Americans (from five birth nations). Their primary role was to serve as small group leaders, which they handled very well. Interestingly, most of these leaders have been studying in Lutheran schools as CFNA scholarship recipients for the past several years.

Our thanks to Webster Gardens Lutheran Church for their partnership, and to the New American youth for their participation.