Reflections on Reaching the International Student Diaspora in North America

Abstract

One way of viewing and distinguishing the broad context of Diaspora people groups is according to their status as being permanent residents or temporary residents in their new or host country.  International students, scholars, and faculty, along with their families, constitute one of the sub-categories of temporary foreign residents.  They may live on North American campuses or in our communities for a few months to several years.  It is no accident, but the sovereign act of God that brings the future leaders of the world to us, and in increasing numbers.   Therefore, a profound local ministry opportunity with tremendous global impact exists.  But even though the opportunity may exist immediately around us, it does not presume that the opportunity is readily seen or acted upon.