Lutheran High School South/CFNA Swim Program

snack time

“Pastor Spanish, I want to go swim today. You coming to pick me up?” screamed Merwa Jabir (Sudan) when she saw my car pull up near her house. Her enthusiasm was enough for me to disregard her misrepresentation of my name as I struggled to keep control over the six Sudanese and Congolese kids who were already jostling to get into my vehicle.

Learning to swim during winter is not the most appealing thing to do. Nevertheless, after convincing the parents of the importance of water safety, the swim program organized by Lutheran High School South for refugee kids enjoyed high demand. Undeniably, the enthusiasm of the New American kids was something parents took into consideration as they conquered their own fear of their kids being in danger. By the end of the four-lesson swim program, all 52 of these young participants had gained considerable confidence and ability.

riley handing out certificates

Ably led by Lutheran South National Honor Society president, Riley Schelp, more than 13 swim team members served as volunteers for this effort. Having placed the students into groups according to water familiarity and ability, they began teaching swim skills. By the end of the program, all the students had advanced one or more levels. All of them received Certificates of Achievement.

Bible-based devotions, together with friendly, caring mentorship by the volunteers, served as the basic building blocks for a meaningful witness of Christ’s love for each of us. As a result, youngsters from eight birth nations (Eritrea, Ethiopia, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Sudan, Bhutan, Nepal, and Congo) enjoyed fun and fellowship, even as they acquired swimming skills.

CFNA extends sincere thanks to Lutheran High School South and especially members of the swim team. Additionally, we thank Mary Anne Rall, Carol Buckman, and the LHSS students for having provided snacks (bagels and juice) for each session.

mothers and students

Clearly, these classes impacted these New Americans. As Bhumika Gurung (Nepal) put it, “Wow! Thank you for talking to my dad. Now I can swim. The swim teachers are so nice. I would like to come again.”

By Pastor Stanish Stanley Executive Director, CFNA