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Our First Decade—1984 To 1994
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- Our First Decade—1984 To 1994
Our First Decade—1984 to 1994
The first decade of International Student Ministries Canada saw tremendous expansion from two cities in Alberta, to over ten from Victoria, BC to Guelph, ON. Here are a few of our early programs, and what they look like now:
Friendship Partners
One of the first ways ISMC connected believers in Canada with international students was through the Friendship Partner program. Culturally sensitive Christians invited international students into their homes, often leading to opportunities to share the faith that was central to their lives. Today, you can see the focus on friendship echoed in hospitality programs such as Friends for Dinner, where we see hundreds of relationships formed each year. And you can still find the original Friendship Partner Program in the Niagara Region and Conversation Partners in Guelph, ON.
ESL Programs
ISMC’s first ESL program formed quite by accident in 1985. A group of Chinese graduate students attending an ISMC wiener roast expressed a desire for an English class. Writes Audrey Shultz: “Before I realized it, I was standing before seven Chinese men and two Chinese women. My goal was not only to teach them conversational English but also to share with them the joy of being a Christian.”
Today, teaching conversational English (and French, in Quebec) is still an effective way to connect with international students. ISMC offers ESL/FSL programs in nine cities.
Bible Studies
The Bible is, of course, integral to sharing the love of God with international students. Since the early years, ISMC staff have facilitated regular Bible studies, often in their homes. Now, as then, it’s so exciting to see a student open the Bible for the first time. It is even more exciting when students choose to accept Jesus. A Bible study in Edmonton welcomed three students into God’s family recently!
FOCUS Club
FOCUS Club started as a campus club in Edmonton in 1986 to build additional student connections. Then, as now, international students struggle with social isolation. Our twelve Focus Clubs in cities across Canada meet weekly or monthly for dinners, faith discussions, and cultural activities to foster social interactions.