Editor’s Note: CFNA was blessed to have had Ellie as a Lutheran Young Adult Corps intern for 10 weeks this summer. From Scottsdale, AZ and currently attending Concordia University Nebraska, Ellie shares with us her reflections. Christian Friends of New Americans matters to me because I love children and I have really enjoyed getting to know all of the kids involved with the various programs CFNA offers. Clearly, all of the programs are designed to instill curiosity in unbelievers as well as deepen the faith of new believers by introducing them to the unconditional love of our Savior Jesus Christ.

I was also pleasantly surprised over and over again by the kind of God-loving, amazing staff and volunteers who have become involved with this ministry, and was so blessed to have had the chance to learn from them. Even though I was a stranger to Saint Louis, the people of CFNA welcomed me as one of their own, and I am so thankful for that love and kindness.

Highlights included the short car rides with many of the New American children which provided an excellent opportunity to get to know them in the context of their experiences, families, and passions. The Arabic and Nepali sewing classes were another genuine source of learning and enjoyment. Even though I did not know much about sewing when I started, the volunteer women serving this ministry were most helpful and patient with me and my lack of knowledge and skill. All of them were so pure of heart, and I will not forget the laughs and good times as we stitched beautiful articles of clothing together.

Working with Pastor Stanish Stanley and his family was another great part of working with CFNA, as they were especially welcoming and helpful when I needed assistance or some encouragement. The same may be said for co-interns Riley Schelp and Peyton Anderson, as well as other staff members and the volunteers who give so much to this organization.

My biggest challenge had to do with my lack of experience working in a cross-cultural setting. My time with CFNA provided me with lasting insights regarding the challenges and opportunities in this kind of ministry.

By Ellie Mackowski Lutheran Young Adult Corps

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