Unlike Philip in Acts 8:26, it is not necessary to go to a desert road to encounter important individuals from other countries who desire to have God's Word explained. It is not even necessary to leave Pasadena. Students and scholars from all over the world are coming in large numbers to Caltech and Pasadena City College, as well as other leading colleges and universities throughout Southern California. It is remarkable that 60% of Caltech's graduate students and scholars are internationals. Caltech is ranked #1 in the world in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. Pasadena City College also attracts the best and brightest international students because it ranks #1 in the transfer of Asian students to four-year schools.
Friends of International Students (FIS) has been a ministry of Lake Avenue Church since 1987. FIS invites the LAC family to be involved in significant cross-cultural ministry without:
• Learning another language
• Obtaining a passport and visa
• Getting "travel" shots
• Taking long plane flights
• Using vacation time
• Worrying about exotic diseases
• Leaving family and friends behind
Did you know that 75% of international students in the U.S. never enter a home? FIS can connect Americans with international students at Caltech, Pasadena City College, or other local colleges and universities. Many students are anxious to meet new friends and learn more about American culture. Opportunities include being matched with a Caltech scholar as a Conversation Partner, serving at the FIS Friday night fellowship, participating in holiday parties and activities, or hosting an international high school student for four weeks in the summer. Through a bridge of friendship, there can be sharing at a deep level and lives of future leaders will be impacted.
Please contact Andy Pearce, FIS Coordinator, at or 626-817-4578 if you would like more information about being a part of this cross-culture "journey" to the nations in our backyard.
To His Glory,
John Secrest
Associate Pastor of Adult Ministries