Through events that encouraged teamwork and camaraderie, teaching classes about geographical phenomena and animal life found in select national parks, education was multiplied as were relationships, key skill learning, and the overall equipping and empowering of CFNA students!

That same gospel, that same good news. is yours today. It is yours in your baptism because God himself took action and drenched you in his love, as it were, through water and his word. He made you his own. Like everything else God has done on our behalf, that may sound too simple and too easy; but that is how God has decided to work. And who better to do it than God himself?

“I’m blessed to have the opportunity to work with fabrics and sewing at CFNA. I’m always amazed by the love, hospitality, and generosity the Afghan women and the other volunteers share. I love the smiles the women wear when they come to class.”

Service has a great, everlasting impact. The outpouring of love from staff has deeply resonated with children; in response, they are now living vessels for Christ’s kingdom. We can only praise God and ask that you, too, consider serving at CFNA for His greater purpose. The culture of service fostered at CFNA overflowed through partnerships into young leaders immediately seeking to bring joy to others.

Though her journey has not been easy, her faith and connections have led to breakthrough moments and unexpected joys along the way. Carol Buckman, CFNA founder, recounts a recent, happy surprise ZZ received through the generosity of Lunch and Learn participants.

Discover how Shruti Chakrapani’s volunteer work at CFNA leads to experiences which include, “Building meaningful relationships with the students I tutor has been a highlight. I feel blessed to work with students from diverse backgrounds and learn about their cultures.”

This special ministry partnership leads to having attendees from 6 different countries—Malawi, Congo, Zimbabwe, Gambia, Nigeria, and India—experience a practical and meaningful service: African hair braiding for women and haircuts for men.

Programs included Driver’s Ed. for adults, Sewing for women, and After-School Tutoring for children provided practical help while creating opportunities for gospel-centered interactions. These efforts were made possible by the faithful support of volunteers!

As we welcome the start of 2025, CFNA is thrilled to spotlight Dr. Judith Meyer as our Volunteer of the Month and introduce her in her new role as Board Chair. Judith brings a wealth of experience and vision to the organization.

Serving as board chair of Christian Friends of New Americans (CFNA) in 2024 was a profoundly enriching experience, showcasing God’s work through His people. CFNA’s mission to welcome and assist refugees and immigrants resonated deeply with me because of my conviction that God's mission often works through migration.

50 tutoring students and 45 volunteers gathered at Epiphany Lutheran Church to celebrate Jesus’s birthday. Games, crafts, food and activities helped to foster joy that was tangible, laughter that was voluminous, and all around, friendships were growing. 

The annual Giveaway provides an opportunity to reach out to our friends who are in great need of basic items upon arrival to the U.S. Beyond providing these necessities, volunteers and staff have a chance to share the love of Christ through followup conversations with attendees.

As refugees who once faced uncertainty and hardship, we understand firsthand the transformative power of education. Thanks to the support of our Lord and Savior along with organizations like CFNA, we overcame adversity and achieved our dreams. Now, we’re committed to paying it forward by founding the Member-Meneh Foundation, in partnership with CFNA.

For the past 25 years, Dr. Al & Mrs. Carol Buckman have committed their lives to sharing Jesus with immigrants and refugees. They have planted many seeds and have called others to work with them to water. Always, they have relied on God to make it grow. On November 9, 144 friends and family gathered to celebrate what God has done through Al & Carol at Christian Friends of New Americans. 

By the grace of God, five people received the gift of faith, were baptized, and committed their lives to Christ. This was definitely a highlight for the entire visit. Additionally, between 300-350 people stated interest in learning more about Luther’s teachings. They also received requests for assistance in establishing a school, as well as an orphanage. 

Concordia Lutheran Church, Kirkwood celebrated its 10th Annual Turkey Blessing event in three parts consisting of fellowship (Happy Hour on November 21st), packing (of cartons) on the 23rd and the distribution of turkey dinners on Sunday, the 24th. More than 50 dinners which were quickly distributed to refugees from Nepal, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Sierra Leone, Liberia and Congo.