Fun February!

Hello again!

This is only the second post of 2012 and I already have wonderful things to share. Exciting things have been happening around Athens, but especially so with my international friends! Several of the students who I have known for years became believers at the end of last semester! This was especially surprising news for me to hear, as we are oftentimes a ministry that sows without seeing fruit. God is definitely moving in this ministry, and I am so privileged to see how His plans are playing out.

The number of friendship partners (American students who partner with international students to foster cultural exchange, conversational practice, and yes, friendship) this year is higher than it has ever been. Even sophomores and freshmen, who are younger than our typical volunteers, have been emailing me to ask for partners - again, this is something that has never happened in my six years of involvement with ISM! Many of our friendship partner pairs come to our weekly Bible study together, which has positively impacted our discussion groups and worship. This semester marked the start of our using the Alpha course in our small group. Now, with an average of over 25 people coming every week, it's hardly a "small" group anymore!

I am continually amazed at how God is moving through every aspect of our ministry, whether it be through friendship partners, individual relationships, Bible study, or events. Our latest event, our Valentine's Day Snack 'n Chat, was a big hit! We ate spaghetti and meatballs, enjoyed a nice dessert, and danced together. Dancing is generally not high on most international students' list of fun activities, but many participated and enjoyed themselves. Here are some pictures of them learning the "Cupid Shuffle":

Our wonderful ISM leadership staff after our International Thanksgiving event this year.  I'm  in the back row in the purple sweater to the left!

 Things at Wesley are also going well. This month, we're celebrating "Fun February" both as a staff and a larger body. Every Wednesday night service is themed (Spring Break-themed, space-themed), and we decorate the meeting room at Tate accordingly. Fun February was created to make this normally dreary month more vibrant, and it has been a time of very powerful worship and healing. I am stoked to see what else God has in store for us this month!

As always, your prayers and support enable me to keep ministering to the thousands of international students that make their temporary home in Athens. Thank you for your time and gifts, and thank you for reading!

Jessica