Gagan Gurung and Meena Rai lived as refugees in Nepal for over twenty years, even briefly in the same camp. But they had never met. That didn’t happen until shortly after their arrival in St. Louis five years ago. Earlier this month, they both became US citizens! Along with their marriage, Meena’s baptism, and the birth of their son, Ethan, this was a highlight of their lives in America.

Shortly after his arrival, and with the encouragement of his sister Shiva, Gagan became very much involved with CFNA as an evangelist, as he had served in a similar capacity while in Nepal. Indeed, through his leadership, the New Life Bible Fellowship was formed at the Peace Center and established as a satellite of Ascension Lutheran Church. It began with 25 members. Now, their Sunday morning meetings at the Peace Center and/or Ascension draw over 80 participants. Through Ascension, there have been 39 baptisms, 53 confirmations, and 7 children currently attend Word of Life.

In addition to working on her English language skills and managing a household, Meena works full time as a packager at the Volpi Food Company. Her biggest challenge, however, has been coping with the enormous amount of change that has taken place in her life. Her father has passed away, and her mother and brothers remain in Nepal. She, therefore, very much looks forward to the times she can gather with other Nepali people for special events at the Peace Center, such as the Sewing Class. These gatherings, including the New Life Bible Fellowship, provide opportunities for fellowship and encouragement and, along with it, a sense of well-being and hope.

Our congratulations to Gagan and Meena in their new identities as citizens of the US, as well as members of His Kingdom. Please join us in keeping them in our thoughts and prayers.

By Rev. Al Buckman with Gagan Gurung, and Meena Rai

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Refugees to Citizens!