Mission Stories & Impact

June 10, 2025

How One Prayer and One Violin Melted Every heart

“Daddy, could you please buy me a real violin?” eleven-year-old Janeth asked.

Nicolas sighed. As assistant pastor of the Great Commission Baptist Church, the weight on his shoulders had been immense. After their entire community of believers was expelled from their indigenous village, they spent seven months living in a gymnasium before relocating to a cattle farm—starting from scratch to build homes for 46 families. Now, over 170 people were looking to Pastor Rogelio and Nicolas for guidance, provision, and hope.

Though God was faithfully providing through His people, the challenges were relentless—and Nicolas didn’t have a peso to spare.

Still, he had watched his daughter endure the trauma of displacement with quiet courage. Music, especially the violin—even borrowed or broken ones—had brought a sparkle back to her eyes.

So, he took a deep breath. “Honey, you know I don’t have any money. But let’s ask God to provide.” Together, they prayed.

A few weeks later, Janeth and her family visited Kikomar to rest for a few days.

While they were there, a staff member named Diana asked Janeth what she enjoyed doing most.

“Play the violin!” she replied immediately, her face lighting up.

Diana suddenly remembered a violin that had been donated just days earlier and was sitting quietly in the storeroom. In that moment, she knew it wasn’t just a donation—it was a gift from heaven meant for this beautiful girl.

When Diana brought it out, Janeth’s eyes sparkled. It was even her favorite color. After tuning it, she played “Nothing but the Blood of Jesus.” There wasn’t a dry eye in the room.

That day, everyone present witnessed a simple prayer exquisitely answered—a powerful reminder that we are fully seen by our Heavenly Father. Before we even speak, He knows the deepest longings of our hearts.

June 5, 2025June 5, 2025

Letter From the President

I want to share some important—and very personal—news with you. After 25 years serving as President of Christ For the City International, I will be retiring from my leadership role on June 30.

This decision comes after much prayer and reflection. It’s hard to put into words what these past two and a half decades have meant to me. From the very beginning, when I stepped into this role in 2000, I believed that God had something powerful in store for this mission. And what He’s done since then has gone far beyond anything I could have dreamed.

When Mary and I first served as missionaries in Costa Rica in the early ’80s, we saw firsthand how God transforms lives through local ministry. That same passion followed me into this role—fueling a vision to expand into more cities, launch new initiatives, and make it possible for more people to say “yes” to missions.

By God’s grace, we’ve grown from 6 countries to 17. We’ve launched new bases across Latin America, Africa, North America, and most recently in Asia. We’ve created programs like Urban Plunge, Global Teams, and Global Ambassadors that have allowed thousands to step into service and experience transformation.

And none of this would have happened without you.

Whether you’ve supported CFCI for decades or just joined the journey, your partnership has made a difference. Your prayers, your giving, your encouragement, and your faithfulness have built this mission. Thank you—for trusting us, for believing in this work, and for being part of it.

As I step away, I do so with complete confidence in the future. Beginning July 1, Jake Hjemvick will become President of CFCI. Jake and his family first joined the mission field with CFCI in 2011, serving in El Salvador. In 2015, he became the director of our El Salvador base, where he led with compassion and vision. Then in 2020, Jake and his family moved to Omaha as he stepped into the role of Chief Operating Officer. I’ve had the privilege of working closely with Jake these past several years, and I can tell you—he is a man of integrity, wisdom, and deep love for the Lord. I believe with all my heart that God has prepared him for this moment.

Mary and I will continue as faith missionaries with CFCI and support Jake and the staff in any way they so desire. The mission continues, and it is in trusted hands.

I truly believe that the best is still ahead. The Lord is not finished—and neither are we. I hope you’ll continue to stand with us, to invest in what God is doing, and to stay connected to the stories of hope and transformation still being written around the world.

From Mary and me—thank you. These 25 years have been the honor of our lives.

With gratitude and love,

Dr. Duane “Chip” Anderson

May 22, 2025

All I felt Was Hate…

When Jim Brewer said yes to being a part of Christ For the City International’s Asia vision team, he expected to serve and support others—not to be undone by a dinner cruise.

Thailand was wonderful, just as planned. But Vietnam… Vietnam was different. What was meant to be a peaceful evening on a boat in Saigon turned into a collision with 50 years of buried pain. Jim and the team had unknowingly stepped into the middle of the country’s official celebration: the 50th anniversary of the fall of Saigon. The war was over, and they had won—and they were partying.

Uniformed Vietnamese soldiers filled the boat. There were toasts, speeches, laughter. Celebration.

And all Jim could feel was hate.

“My dad fought in Vietnam,” he said. “He came back a wrecked man. A drunk. Our family never recovered. All I’ve ever known is that those guys were the enemy. That’s what I grew up with. So to be surrounded by them—celebrating—that shook me. I was so angry I didn’t even know what to do.”

But then a pastor on the team turned to him and asked a simple question: Why don’t we go have a conversation with these guys?

Jim hesitated. Then—why not?

As he looked into the eyes of one of the Vietnamese veterans, something unexpected happened.

“The Lord opened my eyes,” he said. “I saw that he was just as broken as my father. And in an instant, I felt something from the top of my head to the bottom of my feet. I literally felt the healing hand of God. I don’t even know how to explain it.”

Fifty years of bitterness, grief, and unprocessed trauma—gone in a moment.

The very people he had despised embraced him. One soldier insisted on introducing Jim to his commanding officer. Another hugged him.

“I couldn’t have anticipated any of this,” he said. “I went to minister—and God ministered to me.”

All the things he thought would be difficult—the war tunnels, the museums, the memorials—none of that touched him like that boat ride. That boat, that moment, was where the Lord did something miraculous.

“I never pictured myself going to Vietnam. Never thought I’d want to,” Jim said. “But God knew. He knew I needed healing I didn’t even realize I was still waiting for.”

It was the most emotional part of the trip—for all the right reasons.

“I held a grudge for 50 years. And in a single moment, God healed me.”

April 22, 2025

Something Powerful Just Happened—And It’s Spreading!

Fourteen students from Hillcrest Academy in Iowa took a five-day Urban Plunge in Omaha, and it changed everything. Led by longtime teacher Bryan, who had been on a Plunge before, the group of freshmen, juniors, and seniors stepped into a whirlwind of service, faith, and transformation.

Jonathan, the Omaha Urban Plunge facilitator, saw a shift happen. “By the end of the trip, they truly became the hands and feet of Jesus—not just to the people they served in Omaha, but to each other,” he said. “I believe they will carry that attitude back to their school and community in Iowa.”

And that shift was real. Talon found joy in serving at Open Arms Food Pantry, not just handing out meals but sitting down, talking, and listening—really listening—to people’s stories.

“When you see their face light up because of food, it makes you feel so good inside.”

Norah stepped out of her comfort zone to share the gospel for the first time, realizing that faith isn’t just about believing—it’s about action.

Gibson felt a new calling: “Before this trip, I would’ve felt bad for a homeless person, but I wouldn’t have done anything. Now, I want to go up to them, see how they’re doing, and pray for them.”

Adrian saw the power of prayer in a whole new way, understanding that hurt is real, but so is hope—and we’re meant to be part of that hope.

This wasn’t just a trip; it was a launchpad. The students left Omaha determined to bring what they learned home. They’re already making plans—prayer walks downtown, serving at food pantries, stepping into conversations with people they might have overlooked before.

“We make a difference anywhere we go,” Norah said. “God is on our side, and we can do this in our own city.”

The Hillcrest Academy students didn’t just experience change—they became it. And now, they’re taking that fire back to Iowa, ready to live out their faith with boldness, compassion, and action.

March 25, 2025March 25, 2025

Bringing Abundant Life Behind Bars: How God is Transforming Prisoners in Zimbabwe

In Zimbabwe, an incredible door has opened—one that leads not to confinement, but to freedom in Christ. Through CFCI’s Abundant Life program, inmates are engaging with the gospel in powerful ways, even marking Bibles to be used in future boot camps.

“To hear an inmate sentenced for murder confess that he is forgiven in Christ—this has been one of the most powerful moments I have witnessed,” shares Mubaiwa Mangwende, CFCI Zimbabwe’s base director.

Since the program began, 20 inmates have made decisions to follow Christ, discovering their true identity in Him. Each participant receives their own Bible, a cherished guide for their spiritual journey. The transformation taking place is undeniable.

“Seeing prisoners, once without hope, now embracing the gospel fills my heart with unspeakable joy,” Mubaiwa says.

These marked Bibles are now being used in rural and urban communities—and even reaching Kenya and Zambia. With plans to impact over 4,000 inmates, the ministry needs continued prayer and support, especially for transportation to reach more prisons and remote villages.

Yet, as the ministry expands, so do the challenges. One pressing need is reliable transportation for teams traveling to prisons and remote areas. Many roads require a high-clearance vehicle—something they currently lack. But with faith and perseverance, they continue pressing forward, trusting in God’s provision.

“The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few,” Mubaiwa says. “God has opened a great door—let’s walk through it together.”

Would you partner with us in prayer and support to bring transformation where it’s needed most?

March 18, 2025

Riley’s Leap of Faith & Life-Changing Adventures

Riley Bird grew up in a large family—one of eight siblings—just outside of Seattle, Washington. Raised in the Mormon faith, his spiritual journey took a transformative turn when he gave his life to Christ and was baptized in February 2024. With a newfound passion for following Jesus, Riley felt an undeniable call to missions, inspired by stories of his father’s mission work in the Dominican Republic. With his mother’s help, he discovered Christ For the City International (CFCI) and became a Global Ambassador.

Drawn to Latin America, Riley felt an immediate connection to Costa Rica. Now, months into his time on the field, he has been deeply involved in ministry—teaching English, organizing events, visiting senior citizens, playing with children, engaging in prayer walks, and sharing the Gospel.

One moment that stands out to Riley is praying with a man at a senior center who had recently faced hardship.

After we prayed, he told me he finally felt happy and relieved, like he could wake up in peace instead of sadness,” Riley said. “It gave me so much joy knowing the Lord worked through me to comfort him.

Originally committing to six months, Riley quickly realized he wasn’t ready to leave.

“There were so many opportunities to serve that I wanted to be a part of,” he said. “And I’ve made many friends here that I didn’t want to leave quite yet.”

His time in Costa Rica has transformed his faith, strengthening his trust in God and opening his eyes to the powerful ways He moves in difficult circumstances.

“The work being done here is not only helpful but life-changing,” Riley said. “Many people have so little, but what we provide gives them a way out of physical and spiritual poverty. The joy on their faces makes every bit of effort worth it.”

God is using Riley to make an impact in Costa Rica—and through his story, we are reminded that when we say ‘yes’ to God’s call, He takes us places beyond our imagination.

Would you pray for Riley as he continues his journey? Pray for strength, wisdom, and continued opportunities to share the love of Christ with those around him.

Explore Global Ambassador & Mission Trip Opportunities!

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, 2025March 3, 2025

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, 2025

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!

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/