Be an Intentional International Friend

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Are you ready to be a part of spreading the gospel to all nations without leaving your college campus? 
Students from around the world are studying at U.S. colleges and universities. Many come from places where Christian witness is forbidden. By intentionally offering friendship to these students who are far from home, you can show them the love of Christ while providing needed support and community during their time on your campus.
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How can I be a friend to an international student?
  • Consistently pray for the international students on your campus, asking God to use this season in their lives to draw them to Himself. Specifically pray for your new international friend, asking God to help you show love and friendship.
  • Be intentional about setting aside time to interact with your international friend.  Many internationals don’t know how to interpret vague invitations such as “let’s get together “ or “stop by any time.” Be proactive in setting up specific times and places to meet. It’s a good idea to meet in public places on or near campus at first — somewhere that is easy to get to as many international students do not have cars. Suggest a cup of coffee or tea together at the coffee shop on campus or, in nice weather, a meeting on the campus quad or outdoor dining area.
  • Consider what your international friend might be feeling. Think about some of the concerns and fears you might be facing if you were an international student far from home and in a foreign culture. Be sensitive to the needs, desires, interests, beliefs, and cultural backgrounds of the students. Be patient, flexible, and adaptable to what’s happening as you engage in friendship.
  • Also consider practical ways you could serve your new friend.  Practice the English language with your friend and help them understand common idioms, and slang. Offer to help him/her find furniture, kitchen appliances, clothes or other necessities. Be willing to help them navigate the logistics of life here that may be unfamiliar to them, from understanding public transportation to how to access healthcare.
  • Help them understand and explore American culture. Suggest outings to destinations in your community, such as museums, zoos, farmer’s markets and community festivals or events. Also encourage them to teach you about their culture. Examine similarities, as well as the difference, between the cultures.
  • Just be a good friend! This includes being a good listener, which is important in all of our relationships but is especially important with someone whose first language is not English. As they share with you about their lives, be willing to share your own joys and struggles.
  • Be prepared to be amazed at what God can do through you!
“You shall treat the stranger who sojourns with you as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God.” Leviticus 19:34.
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Join our post LCMS Youth Gathering zoom calls to learn more about being an Intentional International Friend. Click this link and leave your name and email address. We will send you the zoom link to join one of the zoom calls the week of July 25, 2022. You will also be added to a google group with other LCMS university students in which you can share your experiences and ask questions of your peers about being an international friend. ​
Caution: It is best for gals to be friends with gals and guys with guys. Find out why! 
This booklet shares some helpful ideas on Getting Started with International Friendships.
View or download Getting Started with International Friendships PDF booklet
Lutheran Hour Ministries has free online courses with helpful ideas of sharing spiritual truths with our international friends. Find them at The Spiritual Conversation Curve.

You may also write to sue@isminc.org  She will give you a call to help you get started.