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.