COV LIFE BLOG

Biblical Living – Friends of Internationals

With this week another new school semester begins. This means Friends of Internationals has new ways to get involved and help reach students in our own backyard at the University of Tampa.

Through this partnering ministry, our church has a wonderful chance to live out our mission statement, to work for the gospel renewal of Tampa and all nations. There are several ways you or your whole Missional Community can help by being the first American friend a student makes.Most importantly, we would love to see meaningful relationships built and nurtured. For the first several days and weeks that a student is in the U.S., they will more than likely cling to the first person willing to offer a helping hand. It would be amazing if every international student at UT connected to a believer.

When a student comes to the U.S. for the first time, they may have a variety of things in mind. While furthering their education perhaps they hope to soon achieve a specific career goal, or to get one step closer to reaching some aspect of the American dream. We desire that many would hear and accept the gospel for the very first time. Some may find their home at Covenant Life Church or another gospel-centered church in the area, only to return to their home country as a Christ-following missionary!

There are several events on the horizon requiring volunteers. To sign up or get more information, contact Jay Gregory:

• August 20: Ray’s game (leaving UT at 6pm) – Tickets $15-20 – Drivers needed
• August 21: Beach day (time and location TBD) – Drivers needed
• September (date TBD): Welcome Party
• September 20: Kennedy Space Center and Downtown Disney

You can also commit to pray for Friends of Internationals this year. As Jay Gregory is on campus each week, pray that he will build lasting relationships. Pray for doors to be opened, students to be reached and lives changed by the gospel. Also, pray that our own hearts would continue to deepen for the nations through the efforts of this ministry.

Kevin Wilder