Christmas International House
“Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it .”
Hebrews 13:2
The United States College University system houses thousands of international college students for whom a trip home - during the holidays - is an impossibility. Christmas International House (CIH) is a program designed to provide housing for those college students who have no place else to go once their campus empties for the holidays. Through Christmas International House, we provide an opportunity for these college students to experience the Christmas season with American Christian families.
Originally, during the two weeks of Christmas break, the basement of our church was transformed into a collegiate dormitory. Although this worked well for over fifteen years, three years ago, we elected to transition the students into congregants’ homes. What a difference this made – both for the student and their host family!
Having a foreign exchange student in your home does not mean you have to quit your job. CIH ensures that student activities are coordinated during every day (with the exception of Christmas and New Year’s) of their two-week stay. First Presbyterian volunteers become Atlanta travel guides as we transport students (using church transportation) to tour all the sights in and around our city. In addition to daytime activities, many evening activities are planned as well.
The work that the Lord has done through CIH is remarkable! Many members of the congregation have built long-standing bonds with their CIH students and report that they are still in touch… even several years later. We find that our student/host family relationships are blessed and there is each year we see a number of tearful goodbyes.
Currently, CIH is in need of a team of volunteers. We need individuals who are interested in coordinating this wonderful ministry, planning day and evening activities, securing housing, etc. If you have any interest in helping with Christmas International House ministry, please contact John Wells (770-427-0293) immediately!
Put a face on international missions at First Presbyterian Church and be a part of God’s plan for these amazing students.
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