Challenges for Sure Foundation
Three years after Sure Foundation Lutheran Church (SFLC) in New York City opened its doors in 2000, English classes became instrumental in reaching people with the gospel. A staff minister started the English as Second Language (ESL) course. He left shortly into the start of the program, so the pastor’s wife took it over. She 
secured funding from a private donor, and was able to grow the program considerably. Sadly the ESL program was forced to close its doors when it lost the use of its building during a two-year renovation.
Kristy Goodman has now joined the staff. SFLC has learned to plan English around events at the church. Students are invited to special events such as bilingual services and Advent by Candlelight. “If we get them to one of our fellowship events, they see it is a great place to be involved,” says Timothy Bourman, one of two pastors at the church. Of course when English classes are not in session, both pastors try to meet with the students to build rapport. They will often share God’s great exchange. Art was a newcomer to Bible class. He had never read a Bible before. He didn’t know how. Bourman met with him, gave him his first Bible and told him he was about to embark on a marvelous journey where he would meet his Savior.
No ministry is without its challenges. About two years ago SFLC was having construction work done on their building. Some difficulties ensued, leaving the congregation without the use of their building for two years. During that time they worshiped in a school building, but were limited to when they could use it. As a result, they didn’t have a Thanksgiving service for a few years, and ended up having some services in members’ apartments. As soon as their building was renovated and open for business, they started offering English classes again.
Thankfully God balances challenges with blessings. SFLC has developed a stellar reputation in the neighborhood and surrounding areas. Word of mouth and a sign posted on the street will bring people to the classes in droves. The reputation also brings in a vast array of volunteers.
Half the volunteers are from the Queens community. These people often volunteer off the street. The pastors always explain the mission and purpose of their ESL program to the volunteers. It is another way in which they are able to lay the gospel on their hearts. One such young woman ended up taking Bible information class with her mom, and they have since become members. During one of the last English sessions, five Chinese tutors came from St. John’s University to fulfill their community service hours. These people were introduced to the church through a referral from someone in the Friends of China program.
No matter the size, number of classes, or amount of volunteers, God has blessed SFLC’s endeavors. Bourman shares, “We look forward to welcoming more people to our program, and we ask God to work powerfully through his gospel like he always has.” The Lord is doing great things in New York. Kingdom Workers is happy to be a part of it.
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