Recovering From Violence

bal and dil gurung

Born in Bhutan, Bal Gurung traveled as a refugee to Nepal, where he lived for several years in the Goldap Refugee Camp, located approximately 300 miles from Katmandu. On September 11, 2009, he, and his wife, Dil, were resettled in St. Louis.

Having been baptized in Nepal, both Bal and Dil became involved with CFNA shortly after their arrival and became members of Ascension Lutheran Church, along with 50 or 60 other members of the Nepali community.

Three months ago, while returning home one evening from a shopping trip, he was stopped by another vehicle and robbed at gunpoint. When he hesitated to hand over his wallet, he was shot; the gunman fled, leaving Bal gravely wounded. Bleeding severely and unable to make a phone call because his phone had been taken, he drove three miles to a relative’s home, who called 911.

Rushed to SLU hospital with his life hanging by a thread, he was promptly given emergency care and remained in the hospital for 13 days. Three months later, Bal is much improved, though he still experiences episodic pain. This has prevented him from returning to his previous employment, though Dil does work part-time as a housecleaner in one of the St. Louis hotels.

Bal and Dil are profuse in their thanks to the members of Ascension Lutheran Church, New Life Bible Fellowship (Ascension satellite), and CFNA for their prayers and help with rent, utilities, and groceries. One family from Webster Gardens Lutheran Church even provided a car—used, but in excellent condition. The transfer process was greatly facilitated by Rev. Ted Wuerffel, a longtime CFNA volunteer.

As he continues his recovery with Dil’s help, Bal solicits your prayers. Any financial assistance you may wish to provide for Bal, Dil, and their four children (Guman, Munoj, Anish, and Joel) should be directed to Ascension Lutheran Church at 5347 Donovan Ave., 63109 or CFNA at 4019 S. Grand Blvd., 63118.

By Rev. Allan Buckman with Rev. Ted Wuerffel