Partners in Mission
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rev. khurram khan, executive director, POBLO
Rev. Duane Maas, Missouri Representative, POBLO
Christian Friends of New Americans (CFNA) and People of the Book Lutheran Outreach International (POBLO) have signed an agreement to better serve refugees and immigrants in the St. Louis area. In a unique partnership, the two organizations will share information and meeting space, partner in specific ministry efforts and proclaim the Gospel among New Americans arriving in St. Louis and beyond.
“The stream of refugees, especially into St. Louis, will grow; it’s already very substantial,” said CFNA Chairman, Rev. Dr. Allan Buckman. “We anticipate a large area of growth will be of Muslim people. A significantly increased flow would very likely over-stretch our capacity. POBLO will definitely help fill this gap, and their participation in this effort will therefore be most welcome and much appreciated.”
The aim of both mission societies is to provide skill giving and capacity building opportunities for New Americans and, as links with these newcomers intensify, to extend them to nearby churches, primarily LCMS congregations. Both organizations have demonstrated a capacity to dynamically link with growing numbers of these New American arrivals.
“CFNA is powerfully impacting the immigrant community through the tremendous services they provide, and the way in which they have brought the Gospel one-on-one to Africans, Nepalese, and many others,” said POBLO Chief Executive, Rev. Khurram Khan. “Now, POBLO International is beginning a new ministry in St. Louis, to specifically meet, serve, and witness to Muslims.”
The partnership represents a true milestone insofar as this is probably one of the few times two LCMS mission agencies have agreed to work cooperatively in a specific area within a specific population segment for the purpose of bringing New Americans into LCMS congregations.
To learn more about this agreement, to donate, or to volunteer, contact CFNA at mail@cfna-stl.org or POBLO at office@poblo.org.
By Marjorie Schmeerbauch and Rev. Dr. Allan Buckman
Rev. Dr. Allan Buckman, Chairman, CFNA
Rev. Stanish Stanley, Executive Director, CFNA
