CFA Founders, Sir Scott & Dame Nicole Fleckenstein, were honored to be seated in the front row during the papal audience with the Knights and Dames of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem in Rome, an event that deeply affirmed the work of the Christian Foundation for Advancement (CFA).
During his address, Pope Leo XIV recognised the Order’s historic mission of pilgrimage and care in the Holy Land. He noted, “Protecting the Tomb of Christ… means supporting a Church made of living stones.”
His words reminded us that our grant-making, mentorship, and partnerships are part of that living presence — rooted in faith, service and enterprise.
The pope spoke of three dimensions of hope: “hope-filled expectation”, “hope in service”, and “hope as a journey.”
In our role at CFA, these words provide a compass:
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Expectation: We believe Christian entrepreneurs can grow businesses that reflect Gospel values.
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Service: Our grants and guidance aim not only to build enterprises but to strengthen Christian communities.
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Journey: Supporting business leaders in the Holy Land is not a one-time act—it’s a commitment to sustained presence.
At the heart of our foundation’s mission is this: to support Christian-owned businesses in the Holy Land and surrounding regions so families stay, communities flourish, and faith remains visible. The audience in Rome wasn’t just symbolic—it reinforced that what happens in the region, behind the scenes of commerce and stewardship, matters to the global Church.
We left Rome with renewed resolve. Our work isn’t abstract—it’s deeply relational, regional and eternal. Every business we fund, every partner we engage, is part of that “living stones” building the body of Christ in a land that holds unique Christian heritage.
“Advance in goodness. Do not stray from the path, do not turn back, do not stop.” — Pope Leo XIV
What this means for CFA
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Our grants will focus on entrepreneurs whose businesses strengthen local employment, support Christian families, and demonstrate integrity.
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We will deepen partnerships with trusted organisations in the Holy Land to ensure resources reach the right communities.
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We remain committed to long-term presence—ensuring Christian enterprise is not just aided, but rooted.
We share this experience with you because your support makes it possible. Together, we are part of a mission larger than business: upholding Christian dignity, sustaining Christian presence, and advancing faith through enterprise.