Partners in Mission

ism Volunteers

ISM & CFNA

Their journey begins outside of this country, thousands of miles from St. Louis. They come here with very little and have few connections. But, there are two groups determined to greet them with the love of Christ and Christian hospitality. International Student Ministry-St. Louis (ISM) and CFNA have similar goals. Each, though working with different groups of internationals, prays that the light of Christ shines through them as they reach out to those that are new to the United States.

It is a blessing that at times, both ISM and CFNA work together to accomplish their goals. This happens throughout the year as they reach out to international students and those new to this land by providing a practical need: furniture.

CFNA collects furniture throughout the year in case new families arriving in this land need a bed, table, dishes or other items to furnish their home. ISM collects furniture in August to give to international students arriving in our city for the first time. Throughout the year, ISM refers individuals wanting to donate furniture to CFNA. But in July and August, CFNA refers donors to ISM. CFNA also encourages ISM to take any items they need for students from their storage area during the month of August.

ISM serves students that may only be in this country for a few years, and CFNA serves those that may be staying forever. Nevertheless, both realize this is an opportunity to do international missions right here in our own backyard. Both groups know that Jesus died for his children from every nation and they are blessed to work together to tell that good news!

By Sharon Riordan, Director, ISM St. Paul’s, Wildwood