'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 Caf?
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.'
