After 3.5 years of faithful service to CFNA, Debbie McBride is retiring from being ESL Driving Coordinator. Debbie shares, “This journey that God put before me was certainly unexpected, but so very interesting and rewarding. CFNA will always hold a special place in my heart in so many ways.”

What made this market truly special were the people behind the booths. Each table was run not only by CFNA volunteers and staff, but also by community members and families who CFNA’s ministry has touched.

Every Wednesday at the Peace Center, CFNA volunteers gather with a group of Afghan women and their children for an afternoon of sewing, fellowship, and friendship. Volunteers share their skills, provide childcare and transportation, and help create a welcoming space for these New Americans. Alongside these practical efforts, volunteers share the message of the Gospel, engaging in meaningful conversations about faith and life. The ministry has also been showcased at several local churches, where generous community support continues to strengthen and expand this outreach.

Sheryl Mattes describes how her involvement with the Sewing ministry at CFNA helps New Americans get acclimated and develop key skills which help them with their futures.

On a day which included a variety of opportunities to help others, middle school students from Immanuel Lutheran School in Valparaiso, Indiana served by teaching New Americans English, others helping prepare the all new peace center to welcome clients and volunteers as they enter and much more!

Let’s dive into an historical study of the attempt to answer the question, “Why is there a difference in when the Passover and Crucifixion took place in the book of John versus the other gospel books?” 

“God is with us everywhere we go. He doesn’t stay in the U.S. and watch from a distance; rather, He is an ever-present God, faithful Father, and the One who strengthens our souls.” We are at Christian Friends of New Americans because we have experienced what our refugee students are experiencing, and we want to continue building connections with African students and other internationals. We are thankful that God has brought us to CFNA, and I look forward to seeing how we can be a blessing to those who come through our doors.

Recently, a local congregation chose to designate CFNA as one of the service locations to help get projects completed in preparation for our open house event at our New Location! Dig in to learn more how these volunteers helped connect so many who are participating in what Jesus is doing in and through CFNA!

The Golf Benefit is meant to be a fund-raiser AND a friend-raiser. There are many golfers who return year after year, and there are always some new golfers who are not as familiar with CFNA. One of those golfers this year was Ken Mersmann. When asked about his experience, he said, “It was my first time playing in the CFNA Golf Benefit. What a great group of people, super well-done event, and all for a great cause! I didn’t know much about CFNA beforehand but was really impressed. Jesus calls us to action, and caring for refugees is such an important ministry!”

Discover how Pastor Ted’s time with CFNA in volunteering blessed both he and his wife Abby, and many more as they contributed to “Christ to the Nations” right next door!

Though I have worked with many non-Lutheran Christians in the past, I recently began working with a man who is Ethiopian Orthodox. I’d like to share with you aspects of this very interesting and ancient form of Christianity. 

People from many different nations, education levels, financial backgrounds, and life stories come together to be neighbors serving one another in Jesus’s name. Like the tributaries flowing into the Mississippi, CFNA is a center for cultural confluence, a place where, when joined together, we are filled with more life and love.

CFNA’s open house and dedication brought many people to the new building! Everyone was excited not only to see the new location, but many also discovered afresh how the ministries of CFNA are impacting the community. After signing in and getting a name tag, attendees were given a “passport” that listed all of CFNA’s ministry areas. Refreshments from all over the world helped attendees truly get a taste of what happens every week at CFNA!

An evening filled with laughter, food, music and much more, 60 CFNA volunteers, Board members, staff, and summer interns gathered together in Ascension Lutheran Church’s basement for the annual Volunteer Appreciation Night. Ministry coordinators expressed their sincere thanks to volunteers for their diligence and hard work.

13 refugees received eye exams (including 11 receiving new glasses!) recently as Dr. Cheryl Davidson performed eye exams as the new Peace Center. As a part of their eye exam, patients had the opportunity to choose a new pair of prescription eye glasses that fit their style, free of cost.

Starting their journey as participants of CFNA’s Trivia Nights to now actively helping with event logistics, engaging in the coat drive for Afghans, handling donations, driving refugees, and moving items into the new Peace Center, the Maddens show how big a difference volunteers can make!