An opportunity to get close to God and to people who love you

How would you like to experience the fascinating culture of another part of the world, like China, or India, or Southeast Asia? Normally it would cost a lot of money, time, and effort to do that, but we have a very special opportunity. Those cultures and peoples have come to us! There are about 6,000 international students, plus family members, at OSU. Most of the married ones live in the area of Buckeye Village.

This is a strategic outreach. About one in four world leaders comes to the United States for their college education. They will go home as people of influence in their cultures. Their number one concern while here is to do well in their studies, and their second greatest desire is to get to know Americans, to build friendships. Yet 70 percent of international students never get into an American home and 80 percent never get to an American church. Many experience loneliness and are very open to friendship.

So The Promise, in cooperation with International Friendships Inc., will do a short term mission trip to Buckeye Village Wednesday through Saturday, July 8-11, and host a “Festival of Friendship.” We’ll lead activities for the children in the afternoons—sports, crafts, and lessons. In the evenings we’ll take whole families to a Clippers game, and to tour some downtown attractions, and to enjoy an American BBQ. Some of the mission team will stay on site at a local hotel. Others will come and go as their schedules allow. We have lots of opportunities for involvement—not only with teaching and leading, but assisting with sports, food, driving, and more. There are opportunities for adults and youth as we reach out together with the love of God. If you would like to learn more, or get involved, call the church office, 740-549-1716.

Promise of the Week

 View this week's church service bulletin. Sermons are available in both print (pdf) and sound (mp3) formats.