Editor’s Note: Every year for the past 12 years, CFNA has had a Christmas Party for New American children that at times drew up to 80 participants. This year however, such a gathering would well exceed COVID-19 safe-distancing guidelines. Rather than abandon the idea, CFNA again had a party—in conformity with established guidelines. Here, CFNA Executive Director, Rev. Dr. Stanish Stanley, tells us about it.

This year, the Christmas Party was a three-day event, with 30 kids gathered over two days for a party in keeping with safety guidelines, while another 40 kids received their gifts on the third day via drive-up.

Highlights for the party and gift distribution included a special Christmas meal provided by Umetulisha Food Ministry, cookie making, special craft activities, and Christmas devotions. Rev. Mike Schempff and Rev. Dr. Mike Zeigler shared the story of Jesus’ birth through their messages, and each of the kids returned home with a Christmas gift provided by Christ Community Lutheran School (CCLS).

The Christmas spirit of joyous generosity and bold faith were on full display again this year. The joy of sharing an extra gift was pointed out by CCLS Executive Director Rev. Dr. Matt Hoehner: “Our families at CCLS loved being a part of the CFNA tutoring program’s Christmas party. The 70 gifts requested were immediately delivered by generous CCLS families.”

As kids from more than 10 birth nations (including Eritrea, Congo, Nigeria, Bhutan, Afghanistan, and Yemen) received their gifts, the surprise of getting a Christmas gift in the midst of COVID adjustments was visible. “Pastor Stanish, I love my Christmas gift. I did not expect this,” exclaimed Furaha (7th grade) from the Congo, who has been a regular student on Thursdays this year. “You did a Christmas party and helped us again this year,” was Anisha’s (3rd grade, from Nepal) observation.

Even in the midst of COVID realities, more than 20 volunteers, including several students from Concordia Seminary along with 10 junior volunteers, helped make the tutoring program for refugee kids possible this year. Tuesday sessions were managed by Mrs. Jennifer Janssen and Thursday sessions by Mrs. Amy Zeigler. CFNA remains thankful for the leadership and support provided by these volunteers, and we praise God for keeping kids and volunteers safe.

Indeed, our appreciation and thanks go to all our volunteers for engaging at the tutoring program during these challenging times. We send a special word of thanks to CCLS, especially their families, for blessing our kids with Christmas gifts this year. From thankful kids and CFNA: a Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year to you!

By Rev. Dr. Stanish Stanley
Executive Director, CFNA, St. Louis

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