Long Time Supporter…First Time Visitor
by Pastor John St. Pierre
(From the October 2019 CFI Newsletter)
I have served as one of the pastors at Berean Community Church for the last five years. During that time, Philip Dongre has invited me to visit CFI with him many times, but I never had the time, until last year. It was a great blessing and I’m so glad that I went!
The staff at CFI received us very warmly. I was grateful for both English conversations and for the translation provided. They showed a kind and thoughtful hospitality that—despite modest means—was second to none in love.
Some of the benefits of my trip were easy to anticipate, but some took me by surprise. Here are a few of the notable ones:
Visiting CFI confirmed our trust in this ministry. We would all like to think that we know what is going on with our missionaries. Newsletters, photos, and websites give some general idea. Missions conferences are helpful. However, nothing can beat a “boots on the ground” experience with a ministry. I knew that the staff believed in their mission when I heard that many had been raised in Christian orphanages. Additionally, I was heartily encouraged to hear Hindu government officials praise CFI.
Visiting CFI gave me personal ways to encourage the staff. It was great to interact with the staff, pray with them, and encourage them in a difficult work. As a minority religion in a hostile country, they need all the encouragement they can get!
Visiting CFI offered many opportunities to share the Gospel. When I went on this trip, I wanted to both see the ministry and do whatever I could to make an impact. Philip was very kind to line up many occasions to speak to the children of CFI and a Bible school with which they partner. Although it was easy for the children to see us as representatives of the United States, proclaiming the Gospel—the truths that save both Indians and Americans—helped demonstrated our worldwide unity in Christ.
Visiting CFI connected us with our church’s supported children. Our church members have supported children for many years. Meeting them was a special highlight.
Visiting CFI opened doors for future ministry. I was excited to show our church a video tour of the campus with Philip as tour guide. In addition, CFI has invited us to conduct a short-term Bible school for the children in the future. Last, but perhaps most importantly, when we saw that there is no full time pastor to serve the believers at CFI, we reached out to a partner seminary in India. Would you pray with us that God would send a pastor to plant a village church to serve CFI and their neighbors?
Thank you again to Philip and CFI for their warm partnership with us!
John St. Pierre
Associate Pastor
Berean Community Church
