Lindsay Blake – Page 6 – Christ for the City International

March 11, 2025March 7, 2025

Women in Mali Sewing a New Story

In Mali, a group of determined women is stitching together more than just fabric—they’re weaving hope, dignity, and a brighter future for themselves and their families.

At Christ For the City International Mali’s sewing center, vulnerable women are gaining the skills they need to become financially independent. One woman shared how this opportunity completely changed her home life. Before, financial struggles caused constant tension with her husband. Now, with the income she earns from sewing, she helps provide for their family, and peace has replaced conflict.

“These women are fighting to rise above vulnerability and become independent,” said Amos, the CFCI Mali Director. “Seeing them work with joy and efficiency, knowing they are building a better future, is truly inspiring. We pray that this support continues so even more women in Mali can find hope and dignity through this program.”

Each woman in this program is determined to stand tall in her community. They have expressed deep gratitude for this opportunity and pray that more women can receive the same life-changing support.

Will you stand with them? Your prayers and support can help expand this ministry and give more women the tools they need to break free from vulnerability and step into a future of confidence and independence.

Pray. Give. Share. Let’s continue sewing hope into the hearts of women in Mali and across our bases around the world!

March 4, 2025February 4, 2026

From Intern to Leader: Eleanore’s Mission to Bring Hope

For Eleanore Hyvonen, missions never was just a calling—it’s a way of life. From a young age, she knew she was meant to serve the Lord, not just in words, but through action. That passion became a reality when she first connected with Christ For the City International through an internship at Wheaton College.

During that time, she spent six months in Costa Rica serving at an adolescent girls’ rehab home, an experience that deepened her faith and fueled her passion for bringing Christ’s hope to others. She fell in love with CFCI’s Global Teams ministry, which sends teams to serve in communities around the world.

“I love how well-structured the trips are and that the main mission behind this organization is that there is no place without hope,” Eleanore shared. “That’s something our world really lacks right now. We want Christ to be a hope for everyone—for the lost and the found.”

Now a Spanish teacher, Eleanore is still answering the call to missions. Last year, she led a team to Costa Rica, and this year, she’s preparing to lead teams to both Costa Rica and Guatemala. Through these trips, she has witnessed firsthand how God is using His people to transform cities by transforming lives.

But missions isn’t just about the places we go—they’re about the people we meet, the lives we impact, and the hope we share. Through Global Teams, Eleanore has seen the power of faith in action, the beauty of communities coming together, and the undeniable truth that when Christ is at the center, lives are changed forever.

Now, she’s inviting you to be part of this incredible movement. Whether by going, giving, or praying, you can help bring Christ’s love to those who need it most.

Be part of the journey. Be part of the transformation. Go on an international trip and make an impact! Let’s start a conversation!

March 3, 2025February 4, 2026

Send Me Where I’m Needed – Xaiver’s Story

When Xavier, a college student from Pennsylvania, felt the call to serve internationally, he had no idea where to start. With limited time between classes, he needed an opportunity that fit his schedule while allowing him to make a real impact. That’s when he found Christ For the City International.

“CFCI immediately responded to my email,” Xavier said. “They were willing to be flexible, sending me not only when I could go, but also where I was most needed.”

That place was Zimbabwe.

For three weeks, Xavier poured himself into ministry, stepping into new and unexpected opportunities. He cared for orphans—singing worship songs, reading Bible stories, and even helping build bunk beds for a boys’ orphanage. He visited the pediatric ICU in Bulawayo, where he witnessed the power of prayer as a paralyzed child began to move and walk.

“I’ve been on a journey to understand the full nature of prayer,” he shared. “Seeing faithful prayer change a life right in front of our eyes was nothing short of powerful and miraculous. Our God is always listening!”

Xavier also joined local pastors for street evangelism, sparking deep conversations about faith and leading Bible studies for young adults. At a healing with horses program, he saw the incredible impact of therapy animals—helping disabled youth improve their speech and mobility. And on his final day in Zimbabwe, he experienced a moment he’ll never forget—three boys at the orphanage gave their lives to Jesus.

“There is a beating heart within Zimbabwe that is hungry for the Gospel,” Xavier said. “Even for those who’ve already heard of Jesus, they need people who live out His name and seek to let others know of the true relationship Jesus desires to have with us.”

Now, Xavier isn’t done. He’s preparing to return to Zimbabwe later this year—with a team—to continue the work God started.

Missions change lives—not just for those we serve, but for those who step out in faith.

Are you ready to say, “Send me where I’m needed”? Let’s start a conversation!

December 30, 2024

2024 Year End Giving

We hope you had a wonderful Christmas filled with joy and peace! As we approach the New Year, we want to thank you for being such a vital part of our mission to transform cities by transforming lives.

This year, through your generosity and God’s provision, we’ve raised just over $40,500 for our Transformation Fund. Every dollar is helping missionaries around the world create life-changing projects like vocational training, feeding centers, children’s programs, health and dental clinics, gang ministry outreach, and more—all while sharing the hope of Jesus.

Our goal is to raise $75,000 by midnight on December 31 to continue advancing God’s kingdom around the world. Your gift today—no matter the size—will directly support these incredible projects and help meet both physical and spiritual needs for those we serve.

If you’ve already given, thank you from the bottom of our hearts! You’re helping us bring hope and transformation to communities worldwide. Would you consider sharing this campaign with your friends and family to help us reach our goal?

If you haven’t given yet, there’s still time to make a tax-deductible year-end donation. Every dollar makes a difference in building God’s kingdom.

Click here to give today and see the impact of your donation!

Together, we can create lasting transformation in the lives of those who need it most. Thank you for walking with us in faith and generosity. Let’s finish 2024 strong and step into 2025 ready to continue transforming lives and communities for His glory!

With joy and gratitude,

The Christ For the City International Central Office Team

December 9, 2024

Don’t Miss Out: 12 Days of Christmas Surprises Await!

Get ready to celebrate the season with CFCI’s 12 Days of Christmas! From December 12th to December 23rd, we’re spreading Christmas cheer with daily surprises just for you. Think exciting prizes like:
🎄 $ off Trips
🎁 Amazon Gift Cards
🎅 Personalized Holiday Video Messages
🎉 CFCI Swag
…and so much more!

Each day offers a new way to participate and win. Be sure to check your texts for daily instructions, from Insta Lives and social media challenges to fun surprises like creative Christmas text contests.

Want in on the magic? Here’s how to join:
1️⃣Follow this link: www.cfci.org/12days
2️⃣Sign up with your name, email, and phone number to receive updates and daily instructions.

🎉 Plus, here’s how you can make an even bigger impact this season: While enjoying the fun, join us in transforming lives by giving to the Transformation Fund. Your generosity this Christmas helps bring hope and love to those in need, making a difference that lasts far beyond the holidays.

📅 Mark your calendar for December 12th to dive into the magic! Let the countdown to Christmas begin. Don’t wait—sign up today for 12 Days of Christmas Cheer and an opportunity to make a lasting difference.

October 23, 2024October 23, 2024

Global Ambassadors – Andy & Deborah Knapp

At Christ For the City International, we’ve always believed in the power of partnership, especially those that feel like family. For my husband Andy and me, that family began back in 2012 when we went on a short-term mission trip to El Salvador. I had been on mission trips before, but there was something about that trip that felt different—something deeper. Within 24 hours of being in El Salvador, I felt the overwhelming sense that I was home. I remember saying to myself, “This is where I belong.” It was as if the Holy Spirit had wrapped me in His arms and whispered, “This is your comfort zone.”

People always ask, “How were you able to leave your comfort zone and move overseas?” But what they don’t realize is that I found my comfort zone in El Salvador. I was 60 years old, and I had never had any desire to travel to Central America. In fact, I’d always dreamed of going to Africa. But when God called, He called me to El Salvador, and I knew without a doubt that this was where we were meant to be. Andy thought I was crazy. I remember telling him, “We’re going to move here.” He thought it was just talk—but I knew God had bigger plans.

A few months later, I convinced Andy to return with me CFCI Global Ambassadors. At first, he wasn’t so sure. Our third grandchild had just been born, and he didn’t want to leave our family. But during that trip, something changed. One night, while doing a Bible study, he came across the passage where Jesus says, “If you aren’t willing to leave your family and home, you aren’t willing to be My disciple.” It hit him hard. He wept, realizing that God was calling us to leave everything behind and follow Him. That night, Andy said, “We’re moving to El Salvador.”

In December 2013, at 60 years old, we moved to El Salvador as long-term missionaries. I’m sure some people at CFCI thought, “What are these old people doing here?” But let me tell you—those years were the best years of my life. Our lives became beautifully simple, focused solely on Jesus. Every day was about loving the people God had placed in front of us. We built such deep, genuine relationships with people who didn’t want anything from us—they just wanted to be loved. It was a life-changing experience.

Andy and I did everything from teaching English to photography, leading Bible studies, and even hosting short-term missionaries. We were like the mom and dad for every mission team that came through. Our home was always full—we’d invite 40 people, and 60 would show up because they’d bring their friends! And in El Salvador, people don’t call ahead— they just show up. At first, it was a little unnerving, but it quickly became one of the most beautiful aspects of our time there—real relationships, no appointments, just showing up for one another.

The relationships we built in El Salvador laid the foundation for something even bigger. In 2019, God placed it on our hearts to launch the Abundant Life Bible Bootcamp, based on John 10:10: “The thief comes to steal, kill, and destroy, but I have come that they may have life and have it abundantly.” Our passion was to share this abundant life with as many people as possible. Thanks to CFCI, we were able to take Abundant Life beyond borders, expanding from El Salvador to Guatemala, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Zimbabwe, and beyond.

Looking back, I can see how God orchestrated every step of the journey. From the moment we said “yes” to that short- term trip to El Salvador, our lives were changed forever. Had we not gone, Abundant Life wouldn’t be what it is today. CFCI was the conduit that allowed us to fulfill what God had placed on our hearts. They were there when we needed them, providing direction, support, and encouragement. And through it all, we’ve learned that no matter where God sends us— whether it’s El Salvador, Africa, or right here in the States—He has a purpose, and we have a choice. We can either embrace what He has for us, or we can let fear hold us back.

But let me tell you this—if you’re still breathing, God still has work for you to do. We’re never too old, and we’re never too young. I’ve never loved anything more than sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ, and I’m so thankful that CFCI has allowed us to do that, not just in one place, but across the world. It’s been a journey of transformation—both for us and for the countless lives we’ve been able to touch. We are just in awe that we get to be part of His perfect plan.

Would you like to be a part of our November Costa Rica Vision Tour Trip? Sign up here: https://cfci.org/trips/costa-rica-vision-tour/

October 7, 2024October 23, 2024

Come to Costa Rica with Christ For the City!

Something amazing is coming up, and we want you to be a part of it!

Join us for an unforgettable experience on a Vision Tour of our Costa Rica base!

This trip is a unique opportunity to witness firsthand the incredible work God is doing through CFCI in different parts of Costa Rica.

The trip will take place from Thursday, November 14 to Monday, November 18, 2024.

Learn more here: https://cfci.org/trips/costa-rica-vision-tour/

September 23, 2024

Empowered by Love: How a Community’s Generosity Changed a Life Forever

A few months ago, we shared a powerful story about the transformative work happening in one of our community centers in Costa Rica, specifically in the community of La Carpio.

Today, we want to share the journey of a young man named Emerson Maltez, whose life has been radically changed through the relentless love and guidance of our missionaries. For over three years, Emerson has been mentored, learning to place God at the center of his life. The dedication invested in him has borne fruit in ways that are nothing short of miraculous.

In late February, after a team visited La Carpio, Emerson formed a deep connection with some of the team members. Moved by his story and determination, they provided him with the funds to attend English classes—an opportunity administered by our missionaries that has opened doors Emerson never imagined.

But God wasn’t done yet. Later that year, Emerson met another wonderful couple, Chuck and Shalene Gustafson, from Desert Song Church. They witnessed the fire in Emerson’s heart firsthand and were inspired to bless him beyond measure. They provided a stove for Emerson and his family, a gift that left both him and his mother in stunned disbelief.

When the stove was delivered, the joy and gratitude in their home were palpable. It was a moment that allowed Josue Sanchez, Emerson’s mentor, to share with the family about the overwhelming blessings that come when you stay close to God and trust Him with your burdens. Josue also expressed heartfelt thanks to the Gustafsons for their incredible generosity.

Emerson’s faith continues to flourish, and his passion for helping others burns brightly. He is driven by an unquenchable desire to serve, and his journey is a testament to the power of God’s love and the impact of a supportive community.

Please join us in prayer for Emerson as he continues to grow in his faith and fulfill the calling God has placed on his life.

September 9, 2024September 23, 2024

SEEDS OF TRANSFORMATION: WITNESSING DIVINE WORK IN CARPIO’S YOUTH

“God, what do you want from me?” Sixteen-year-old Emerson asked with tears in his eyes on the final night at La Montaña Christian Camp in Alajuela, Costa Rica. “What do you need from me?”

For two decades, Christ for the City International has hosted a camp for youth in Carpio, the largest slum in Costa Rica.

“Abuse, violence, and drug dealing are tragically normalized here,” remarked Josue Sanchez, a missionary for CFCI Costa Rica.

Josue and his wife, Nikki, began assisting with the La Montaña Christian Camp three years ago. Upon returning from their inaugural camp experience, they, along with another missionary couple, started a weekly Bible study with kids from Carpio who had attended the camp.

“At first, it was challenging to establish control,” Josue recalled. “But they kept coming, and by the end of that first year, we started to notice subtle changes.”

Emerson was just 13 when the Bible study commenced. Subsequently, Josue invited Emerson and three other boys to join a smaller discipleship group. All of them returned to camp the following year, where Emerson surrendered his burdens to God.

However, six months later, Emerson’s well-being seemed to deteriorate. Concerned, Josue, as his mentor, confronted Emerson with higher expectations.

Fast forward to February 2, 2024, when the Holy Spirit ministered to Emerson for two hours on the camp’s final day.

“It took three years to bring Emerson to this moment,” Josue remarked. “This is what we want to witness—the Holy Spirit taking charge.”

After actively participating in Carpio’s Bible study for three years, Emerson, on Thursday night, courageously led the group in a review of the story of Gideon for the very first time.

“I was excited to see him take the lead in the Bible study,” Josue expressed. “It’s been amazing to see his leadership skills develop over these past three years.”

Josue and Nikki feel privileged to be part of the divine work unfolding within Carpio’s youth.

“It’s not about us,” Nikki humbly stated. “But the seeds we’ve sown will undoubtedly bear fruit.”

July 30, 2024September 23, 2024

EMBRACING THE SACRED CALLING: WHY MISSIONS IS VITAL TO THE CHURCH

In the grand narrative of the Bible, from the dawn of creation to the culmination of history, the theme of God’s kingdom resounds with resolute clarity. Embedded within this overarching narrative is the sacred calling of the Church – the community of the King – to participate in the divine mission of advancing God’s kingdom on earth. At the heart of this mission lies the imperative of proclamation, embodiment, and demonstration of the sovereign kingship of Jesus Christ. In this exploration, we unveil the profound importance of missions to the Church, rooted in the timeless truths revealed from the book of Acts to the culmination of Revelation.

Understanding the Kingdom Mandate

From the inception of creation, God’s intention has always been to extend His kingdom from heaven to earth, mirroring the peaceful perfection of the Garden of Eden described in Genesis. This divine mandate finds its fulfillment in the redemptive work of Jesus Christ, who inaugurated the kingdom through His life, death, resurrection, and accession. The Gospels vividly depict Jesus proclaiming the arrival of the kingdom and demonstrating its transformative power through acts of compassion, healing, and deliverance. In Matthew 4:17, Jesus declares, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” Furthermore, in Luke 4:18-19, Jesus quotes Isaiah 61, revealing His mission to proclaim good news to the poor, freedom for the prisoners, recovery of sight for the blind, and to set the oppressed free.

As recipients of this grace, the Church is entrusted with the sacred task of heralding the Gospel of the kingdom to the ends of the earth. The book of Acts chronicles the early believers’ fervent proclamation of the Gospel, resulting in the expansion of the kingdom amidst opposition and persecution. Acts 1:8 records Jesus’ commission to His disciples, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” This narrative serves as a timeless reminder of the Church’s calling to be ambassadors of Christ, bearing witness to the reality of His reign amid a broken and fragmented world.

Moreover, the early Church in Acts demonstrated the kingdom’s transformative power by serving one another with selflessness and generosity. Acts 2:44-45 depict the believers sharing everything they had, selling their possessions, and giving to anyone in need. This radical communal living showcased to the world a different way of living, guided by the principles of God’s kingdom.

Proclamation, Embodiment, and Demonstration

Central to the mission of the Church is the threefold mandate of proclamation, embodiment, and demonstration of the kingdom of God. The Gospels depict Jesus as the embodiment of the kingdom, where He walked, the kingdom manifested itself through acts of love, mercy, and justice. In Matthew 9:35, it is written, “Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness.” Similarly, the Church, as the body of Christ, is called to embody the values of the kingdom – caring for the marginalized, advocating for the oppressed, and extending grace to the brokenhearted.

Moreover, the kingdom of God is demonstrated through the tangible expressions of God’s love and power in the world. This includes feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, healing the sick, and delivering those oppressed by the forces of darkness. In Matthew 25:35-36, Jesus instructs His followers, “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.”

Co-Laborers with God

While the advancement of God’s kingdom ultimately rests in His sovereign hands, He invites the Church to co-labor with Him in this divine endeavor. The New Testament never instructs believers to “build” the kingdom but rather to participate in its unfolding through obedience and faithfulness. In 1 Corinthians 3:9, Paul writes, “For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building.” This entails a radical reorientation of our priorities, where we align ourselves with God’s purposes and seek first His kingdom and righteousness.

In conclusion, missions is not merely an optional activity of the Church but the very essence of its existence. Rooted in the timeless truths of Scripture, the Church is called to embrace its sacred calling as co-laborers with God in advancing His kingdom on earth. As we proclaim, embody, and demonstrate the reality of God’s reign, may our lives bear witness to the transformative power of the Gospel, inviting others to experience the abundant life found in Jesus Christ. Let us, therefore, rise to the challenge, knowing that the kingdom of God is not a distant future reality but a present reality to be embraced and proclaimed with boldness and conviction.