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The Third Degree

Monthly column on student work

'My name is Kathy. I'm from China, and I'm wanting to find out about God.' What an introduction! As we began to chat, after a lunch bar event at Leicester University, I saw she was like so many international students in the UK. Kathy hadn't been to a Christian meeting before, or even seen a Bible. However, she was curious to know about the nature of God, and fascinated by the person of Jesus.

In London alone there are a quarter of a million international students. Higher Education is bringing the 'nations' to our doorstep, so we can think globally, yet act locally. At an international evening in the Midlands, the Christian Union welcomed students from literally around the globe. From Brazil to Malaysia, Albania to China, Kazakhstan to the Maldives, Japan to Cyprus, they enjoyed food and friendship, as well as hearing something of Jesus. Many churches and CUs are committed to such work, yet 80% of international students in the UK return to their countries without ever having made a British friend, let alone one who is a Christian.

Globe Cafˇ

Emma Brewster, who co-ordinates international student work for UCCF has found that 'Globe Cafes' are the most popular and effective forum for conversations and friendships with students from around the world. 'Over the last year there has been a significant increase in the number of these cafes. Often set up in university chaplaincies or church halls, these are informal settings where students enjoy meeting others from different countries, as well as practising their English.' The calendar often allows for food to be a major focal point, whether it be pancakes, a Chinese meal at their new year, or Easter eggs and hot cross buns. Slowly friendships are built up, with the prayer that these are a bridge that Jesus can walk over. Steve Nichols, International Student Worker at All Souls, Langham Place, recalled a student who told him: 'This cafe is the only place I have a conversation all week,' but Steve points out: 'It's not only about seeing them as needy, but loving them as Christ loved them.'

The work among international students is not limited to unbelievers. Many come from countries where the church is persecuted. These students can offer a powerful challenge to Christians in the UK who have it relatively easy. Many too are young Christians, who have had little fellowship in their home country. Their time in the UK can be one of significant spiritual growth.

Praying in English

Jackie Mann of ISCS worked along international students at this year's mission at Warwick University. She stayed with Dirra, a first year student from Indonesia: 'She was brave enough to allow me to sleep on her floor for the week, brave enough to cook me an Indonesian meal (which was so hot it made my voice squeak!), and brave enough to ask me one evening: "Will you teach me to pray in English?" She had been asked to co-lead a small group in halls. Dirra knew she needed to make the step of praying in English, but it seemed a big hurdle to her. God graciously nudged her over it, and I had the privilege of listening in!'

Lindsay Brown, General Secretary of IFES (International Fellowship of Evangelical Students) is grateful to a Christian student from overseas for contributing to his own father's conversion. Lindsay took him home during a holiday, and his father asked the international student questions about Christ in a way he would never have asked Lindsay.

International student work is often difficult, lonely and intense. 'Everyone wants you to be their best friend', said one leader. That's why we all need to be involved, whether it be inviting an international student home occasionally, helping them practise their English, studying the Bible with them, helping to run a Globe Cafe, or praying for the work.

If you would like to know more about reaching out to international students, contact UCCF (Universities & Colleges Christian Fellowship) 0116 255 1700 or ISCS (International Students Christian Services) 020 8780 3511.

Emma Carswell