Island International Fellowship - (Belated) June Update

"So, how's your international student program/internship thing going?"

 - the frequently asked question that contains an ever-changing answer of which can vary in length. For in short, it is going wonderfully; however, there indeed are things that could be better and some things to still be managed. None the less, the past several weeks have been marked by many opportunities/adventures, new-formed relationships, memories, and lessons that I am beyond grateful for and shall treasure for a lifetime.

My goal in the following is to briefly update you on the progress, happenings, and needs of Island International Fellowship (IIF) in general as well as the personal side of ministry. 

IIF - Progress & Happenings

Words cannot express my joy for the many students that have become friends and apart of IIF, nor for those who have been playing roles - big or small - in helping IIF function by driving, fellowshipping, praying, or opening their homes. Likewise, I am beyond grateful for the churches who have shown interest in partnering with IIF and have provided so much moral and prayer support; I could not do this without them.

Indeed, IIF has taken off and begun to soar in way's that I could have only hoped for. Currently, we have students representing at least 3 continents and 5-6 countries (not including USA/North America) involved and we are still expanding. Already, with various groups of students, we have been able to go to Ocean City MD, Berlin MD, Crisfield MD,  and a few trips to Salisbury MD (the closest "city"). Likewise, we have been able to provide some home visits and spontaneous "American experiences" and hang out times like late a night jam session, beach day, being pulled over for a broken headlight, and just driving around some interesting areas - just to name a few. Each one of these things has been filled with laughter, strengthened friendships, and a sense of "adventure". I don't think I would be far off to say that IIF is indeed providing an opportunity for students to explore on and beyond the Island, and to fellowship with Americans and other students alike!

Next week I am excited to say that IIF will be taking it's first "step up" from local outings and will be going to Washington DC for a day. The trip was highly requested and will be heavily attended - likely requiring myself and/or a friend to drive a chase vehicle beyond the 14 passenger van we have rented, which is really exciting! Furthermore, some ideas are being bounced around for another day trip or two in early August, as well as some students coming to Lancaster (where I go to college) for a few days in September.

In the realm of the Gospel and IIF, we have already had a few opportunities to talk and debate some spiritual matters, most often as instigated by a student. Seeds have been planted and the gospel has been spoken in word and action to many of the students, thus, I ask that you continue to pray as we continue to relationally witness 

IIF - Current Concerns/Needs

Although IIF is seemingly off to a flying succus, I would be lying to say that all is completely well and running as planned. None the less, although I may be concerned about a few matters I am not worried, for I trust that God in His sovereignty shall work everything out according to HIs plan to bring Himself glory. Following are some of the most pressing concerns, would you partner with me in praying for them, and in filling them if you feel lead?

• Co-leader & Leadership team. 

• Leaders train leaders; but only if there are leaders to train. I have been blessed by many people who have filled roles as needed, and even by a small core group that has been at near everything; I could not have done this and IIF would not be where it is without them. None the less, I have been pulling most of the planning solo and have yet to find anyone willing to rise to "official" leadership or who is interested in caring on IIF after me. As of now, next summer IIF will rest in the hands of a partially aware community and semi-mobilized churches with no one in local leadership (I likely not be in the area). My heart is fully engaged in these students and this opportunity and I am willing to do whatever is necessary to present, train, and partner with the community and individuals to continue IIF, I need only opportunities and people willing to rise up.

• Drivers/coordinators 

• It has become apparent that trips (local and day) are in high desire, however, even with the help of a friend driving in addition to myself, we are still only able to take 7-8 students on a given trip. Thus, I am potentially looking for:
• A mini-van to borrow for local trips (or day trips)
• Peeps to drive for local trips
• People over 25 willing to drive a rented van for a day trip
• People willing to help coordinate and plan day trips

• General community involvement 

• As stated, many people and some churches have arisen with interest in partnering with IIF, however, there is a significant difference in the amount of interest and in actually following through - especially on the Island itself (if I may step on some toes). As I attempt to route IIF so it will last the coming years, I am looking for opportunity-filled soil to share the program with, and people to help tend the growing program in general. 

• Home visit hosts 

• As more students "join" IIF, schedules and coordinating become even harder. Thus, I am looking for several people to open their homes for an evening/afternoon to students to help build relationships and let them see an American home, ideally with each student being able to go to at least one or two. Home visits do not have to be fancy, nor your home elaborate :) 

The Personal Side of Ministry 

Nothing will make you feel more stretched, inadequate, humble, and not uncommonly stressed than leading; and leading IIF is certainly no exception. Although there have seldom been moments when I resented what I am doing in the slightest, there have certainly been many when I questioned my qualifications for doing it. Perhaps one of the greatest instances of this is in trying to plan for the DC trip, and more specifically, finding a van - of which you must be 25 to drive and have a credit card to rent. None the less, I am grateful for those who have been helping me as they are able; for coming, driving, and offering prayer and moral support.

Through IIF I have made many friends and connections, and have been blessed to hang out with some students at events that they plan or spontaneous hangouts; I will truly treasure these relationships for a lifetime. Likewise, I have learned many lessons through IIF, both in regards to leadership as well as my spiritual walk; I have also seen many things I learned in college play out before my very eyes. Perhaps the greatest lesson I have been learning is also the main thing I have seen from my classes at college: balance. For in trying to balance working more than full time, running a ministry, getting the community involved in the ministry, figuring out my own life, as well as my family, I have seen why they said it would be one of the hardest parts of ministry! It is indeed a stretching process and I still have much to improve on, none the less, I am trying my best and finding that my best can be nothing less than total surrender to God and His plan - for it is infinitely greater than my own. 

There are many other lessons and stories I could tell you, and I happily shall if you ask, however, for now, that's it. I am beyond excited to see what God does through IIF in my remaining 6 weeks on Chincotueaceas well as beyond then!

Ways You Can Pray

I do ask for your prayers on a personal level as well as for IIF. There are many stressors in both realms and a God who hears them all. Below are a few praises and prayer requests; your prayer support in the most presious way you can partner with me and IIF.

• Praises:

• The growth of students in IIF and relationships formed with them.
• Opportunities to explore on and beyond the Island with some students already.
• Those who have been helping with IIF in big and small ways.
• My friends who have been an amazing help in fellowshipping with/driving students.
• Finding a driver for the DC trip.
• The seed planting spiritual conversations that have already begun.
• God's grace, sovereignty, and guidance through trying to coordinate everything - Lord knows I can't do this alone.
• The opportunity to even be here in the first place, and the desire God planted in my heart to start IIF.

• Prayer Requests:

• For a co-leader & Leadership team to arise.
• The hearts of the students to be opened to the gospel through our relational witness.
• That the upcoming DC trip will run smoothly.
• Guidance and peace for me as I attempt to lead the DC trip and plan future events.
• For all those currently involved in helping with IIF.
• That the community would rise up and seize the opportunity that is before their very eyes.
• Discernment and wisdom for myself as I ponder changing my academic pursuits path by changing my minor or major.
• That I will be able to effectively balance all the aspets of my curent life situation. 
• That my car will not die from all the ware on it this summer from serving as a ministry vessel - as silly as it may sound, it's a legitimate concern at times.

Conclusion 

As always, I am very grateful for your time in reading this and intrest in this ministry; I could not do this alone, nor do I have intention in trying. I encourage you to join the IIF Facebook group if you would like to stay more in the loop, and to email me if you have any questions, would like to help fulfill a concern, or just to send encouragement to as admittedly slightly stressed 19 year old haha I am excited to see what God has in store for IIF, the students, those involved in helping, and the community. Thank you again for your time!

Contact:

Email: Chrissy.islandif@gmail.com

Phone: 757-894-5059 (please leave a message)

Facebook group: Island International Fellowship (request to join)

IFF Brief Overview

Island International Fellowship is a program for international university students who have come to Chincoteague Island to work for the summer as part of their work and travel program (or other reasons). IIF was officially started by Christine Elliott - a college student with a heart for relationships, the gospel, and the nations - in hopes of involving the community in building relationships and helping students "experience America" on a larger scale then she has been able to do the past two summers mostly by herself with the help of a few friends. 

Purpose Statement 

The primary goal of IIF is to involve the community in helping international students experience a growthful, fun, and memorable time in America by providing opportunities to explore on and beyond the Island, fellowship with American's and other students alike, and experience a taste of American culture. 

The Gospel and IIF

It is the hope of IIF that by the relational witness of volunteers young and old—in word and action—that students will be drawn to question our beliefs, thus opening the door for mature religious discussion (on differences between their beliefs and ours) and ultimately gospel presentations. From this, it is our greatest desire that seeds will be planted, and if He wills, that God would open the eyes of even just one student to their need for Him and that they may take their newfound faith back to their home country. Above all, it is our prayer that no student will leave at the end of the summer without hearing the gospel message spoken and having at least a New Testament in their native language to take home, for how will they believe in a God of whom they have not heard (Romans 10:14)?

From a Learning Mind - Introductory

"It's interesting" my professor once said, "those we know the most about from the past are often those who wrote." Thus, as he told us many times, we should "write to be remembered". Not of course, in a sense that we should write so we ourselves will be remembered for what we have done, but so others can learn and prosses form our thoughts, plans, and stories. For, at least as I understood it, to keep to ourselves the creativity and intellect found within our mind - however advanced or not it may be - would be to withhold at most grand, life-changing ideas, or at the lest a good laugh. I learned many things from that class, of which had nothing to do with writing, however, this concept is perhaps one of my greatest takeaways.

Although I struggled with learning to read until I was 13 and still struggle with spelling, written words have become the greatest keepers and processers of my ponderings - and one of the few places of which my at times outdated vocabulary is at least marginally accepted. None the less, because of my struggles with some aspects of grammar and spelling in tandem with an insecurity of coming across as prideful or as though I have greater knowledge than others, I have seldom shared my written thoughts and ponderings. However, with all humility and glory given to God for everything that has come forth from my mind, I have recently begun to share some, and have been encouraged to share more. Thus, I humbly interduce my new "series" of posts - From a Learning Mind.

The purpose of From a Learning Mind is not to provide doctrinal teaching or to bring glory to myself by any means, nor is it to promote my intellect as superior to others. Actually, some of my greatest fears in sharing are that my name and thoughts bar even the slight the possibility of being seen as such. Rather, the purpose of From a Learning Mind is simply to share, with all glory to God and in utmost humility, my thoughts and ponderings of certain topics as I learn and grow, in an effort to inspire others to think deeper than before and dig into the scriptures to think for themselves, ultimately with the goal of further inspiring a deeper pursuit of God and truth. Ultimately, my desire is not to teach or impose on others what I am finding to be true or what I am learning, but to humbly share it in an effort that others may be inspired to learn and decern for themselves - hence the title "From a Learning Mind".

Thus, I invite you to read "Change", which is the first post of From a Learning Mind and contains the poem of which started the encouragement to share.

Thank you so much for your time in reading this; I hope and pray the words that come forth from a learning mind may somehow serve as a vessel and in your edification and pursuit of Christ. As a side note, I am not opposed to feedback the idea or content of this new venture :)

Change - From a Learning Mind

Personal Ponderings

A beautiful garden in Spain - where I first
began to craft "Change" last fall

For most of my life, I have viewed change with much hesitation, contemplation, and anxiety. Once I found what worked best for me, I shuttered to think of doing otherwise without ligament reason. Furthermore, when given the chance to keep things as they were or to change, I would typically push to keep things the same. However, over the years and particularly the recent months, I have been realizing more and more that to try and hold on to what once was in an effort to avoid what shall be is futile. For the present has no place to go apart from the past, and although there is a place to learn from the past, it shall not keep the future from coming. Furthermore, to unnecessarily hold to the present or the past is only to hasten the future in becoming as such, only in a way of which contains far less delight then if it had been fully embraced. Things would never be as they are if they never changed from what they were, and if things do not change from what they are they will never be as they should in the future.

Ultimately, as a Christian I have learned that there is much beauty to be found in change; a beauty of that although it does not abolish the anxiety of change far suppress it. For God has created all things, including change and time, and likewise reigns above them. Furthermore, He has created a majestic plan to bring Himself glory in the end of all things and every change that has ever happened has been apart of it, as will every change that has yet to come about. Thus, if we believe that our purpose is to honor and glorify God and we know that He has sovereignly crafted a plan to bring Himself glory, when change comes about in our lives we should rejoice; for we know that it is all part of His plan to bring forth glory and even though in our fallen human minds it may seem uncomfortable, ultimately it is not our comfort but His glory that matters.

All of this is not by any means to say, however, that we should never again fear change; for fear is a natural emotion and for me to encourage an attempt to fully ignore it would be far beyond my place and intent of this post. Rather, my intent in this post is merely to share some thoughts that I have learned upon the matter in hopes that they may cause you to think further for yourself. Interestingly enough, however, the thoughts of which  I intended to share are of the following and all previous are a bonus - but the underlying inspiration none the less. Thus, may this edify you and stir your thoughts further and may all glory be given to God for the entirety of these words and anything that comes forth from them.

The Poem 

Change
        The word that can strike fear into the mind of a man in an instant
        The idea of which brings forth uncertainty and breeds anxiety

        The thing of which is so often avoided

                but at its core is unavoidable;

                        for things would not be as they are today
                        had they remained as they always were.

Indeed, the only thing immune to change is God

        who is Himself the author of change and essence of consistency;

                 for He is as He was when there was nothing

                 and for Him to be otherwise in the future would be a contradiction of His character.

Thus, although change is not only normal but necessary as we walk this earth
       we needn't fear it;

                we need only to cling to the one who authored change 

                and remains constant beyond time as we seek to honor and glorify Him through it.

From a Learning Mind

The purpose of From a Learning Mind is not to provide doctrinal teaching or to bring glory to myself by any means, nor is it to promote my intellect as superior to others. Rather, the purpose of From a Learning Mind is simply to share, with all glory to God and in utmost humility, my thoughts and ponderings of certain topics as I learn and grow, in an effort to inspire others to think deeper than before and dig into the scriptures to think for themselves, ultimately with the goal of further inspiring a deeper pursuit of God and truth

Island International Fellowship - From Vision to Reality

As the warm air rustles the blooming flowers and the sun goes to sleep later and later, I am reminded that time has taken its natural course and what seemed a blink ago to be January will soon be summer. Likewise, I am reminded that it is high time for a much overdue update on Island International Fellowship (IIF). If you are unfamiliar with IIF, I encourage you to read my "introductory" post for the full rundown of its beginning, vision, and plans beyond the following breif overview.

IFF Brief Overview

Island International Fellowship is a program for international university students who have come to Chincoteague Island to work for the summer as part of their work and travel program (or other reasons). IIF was officially started by Christine Elliott - a college student with a heart for relationships, the gospel, and the nations - in hopes of involving the community in building relationships and helping students "experience America" on a larger scale then she has been able to do the past two summers mostly by herself with the help of a few friends. 

Purpose Statement 

The primary goal of IIF is to involve the community in helping international students experience a growthful, fun, and memorable time in America by providing opportunities to explore on and beyond the Island, fellowship with American's and other students alike, and experience a taste of American culture. 

The Gospel and IIF

It is the hope of IIF that by the relational witness of volunteers young and old—in word and action—that students will be drawn to question our beliefs, thus opening the door for mature religious discussion (on differences between their beliefs and ours) and ultimately gospel presentations. From this, it is our greatest desire that seeds will be planted, and if He wills, that God would open the eyes of even just one student to their need for Him and that they may take their newfound faith back to their home country. Above all, it is our prayer that no student will leave at the end of the summer without hearing the gospel message spoken and having at least a New Testament in their native language to take home, for how will they believe in a God of whom they have not heard (Romans 10:14)?

The Current Reality

As I ponder upon the best way to frame the current state of IIF's development in light of its ensuing "launch" in late May-early June (depending upon when students begin to arrive), I fear both on the side of sounding too positive and neglecting honesty, as well as in sounding too negative - as though I'm pleading for help amidst uncertainty. Thus, it is with the utmost effort that I shall try and capture both sides of this in an attempt to provide an accurate update on the amazing provision, remaining gaps, and current - although perhaps different - game plan of IIF. All of this, of course, is with the understanding that complete glory belongs to God and full surrender is given to His sovereign plan.

Amazing Provisions 

I have been beyond blessed over the past several months to have had the prayers and moral support of many as I have shared about IIF. It has not only been comforting, but also humbling in a sense, to have so many offering to be in prayer, give ideas, or even a few offers to help this summer however they can. Specifically, I am immensely grateful to report that a few people have already graciously stepped forward to open their homes for a meal to the students and I have a few leads on potential trips/events over the summer. 

Perhaps the provision that has bewildered me the most thus far, however, has been that of finding (rather out of nowhere) fairly affordable housing on the Island. Although it was not the utmost item on my radar in making arrangments, it was certainly a great hope and now as a reality shall save much travel time and aid tremendously in the ministry of IIF as a place of which I can have students over to  for games, food, or just to hang out and build relationships. Ultimately, God has provided many opportunities to grow both in faith and planning as I have attempted to piece together the puzzle of vision to form the finished reality. For apart from HIm everything that has happened for IIF would have not been so, and everything that shall be would never come to pass.

Remaining Gaps

Although I have been amazed by the pieces of IIF that have been coming together, I would be dishonest if I were to claim that there and not still many gaps that I hope and pray to fill. Perhaps two of the greatest gaps I foresee are that of laking a co-coronation/leader and community partnerships/involvement; for one of my main goals in starting IIF is to involve the community and have IIF live on beyond my time on the Shore, as this summer is more than likely my last there. I have had people offer to help, and am immensely grateful to the few who have committed to some form of help or another, none the less I know I can't spearhead this alone and am still looking for someone to embark directly alongside me through the structuring and execution of IIF who can ideally carry on after me. 

Furthermore, although there are currently no official partnerships, I am still hoping to involve the community and local churches in as many ways as possible in hosting/coordinating events, opening homes, building friendly relationships, or near any other creative ideas that are proposed. For although I could very well continue this summer with near the same as I have the past two in regard to IIF, I have little desire in IIF being remembered as Christine's ministry or even her college internship. Rather, I would like IIF remembered as the empowering of the community to seize an opportunity that is largely recognized but not filled by helping lay and build upon the foundations of this summer. Thus, I strongly desire to bridge the gap of community involvement and work alongside rather then spritely from within. None the less, all of my plans and hopes rest in full surrender to God's plan.

Current "Game Plan"

As all the visions and ideas begin to piece together into a rough plan, I very excited to see what lays in store for the summer. As of now, IIF looks to be taking a smaller scale approach then what my ambitious mind originally envisioned, which as many have pointed out is not a bad thing considering the newness of IIF. None the less, it is my hope that IIF may grow over the course of the summer as word spreads. What follows is a rough outline of what I currently foresee being plausible as well as specific ways people can be involved in each. If you desire to help with anything, or have any suggestions on existing plans/proposals for new ones, please do not hesitate to contact me at chrissy.islandif@gmail.com

• Post Work Fellowship: 2-3 evenings a week students will be invited to hang out at my summer dwelling (our other's if hosts arise) after work. This would be a time to unwind, meet other students, eat food, hand maybe have a campfire. 
• Getting Involved: As this is a more casual time, extensive planning/involvement is not nessasarly needed. None the less, I would love to potentially have some college-age students (any age really - but it will be rather late at night) involved to hang out and form relationships. Likewise, as a college student myself, help in supplying food or money for food to feed the students would be most welcomed.
• Home Visits: Bi-weekly (or weekly, ideally) students will be invited into someone's home for dinner and a glimpse of American culture and home life (or whatever else the host has planned). Although not set in stone, home visits would likely occur on Thursday or Sunday evening, depending on host/student availability. The goal is to bridge and explore cultural gaps, form relationships, and probably eat food.
• Getting Involved: There are still many slots open for hosting home visits (sing up organizer in the works). Likewise, depending upon interest amidst the students, there would be a need for transportation.
• Trips/Events: Bi-weekly (opposite home visits), some form of trip or event will be offered. It could be as simple as a trip to the local beach, or as venturous as a trip to Ocean City MD. Ultimately the trips/events will be largely influenced by the interest of students and what opportunities arise. None the less, to get the ball rolling as IIF continues to develop, I currently hope to have (based on past summers) a beach day, trip to Ocean City, a shopping trip to the mall in Salisbury, and hopefully some form of history tour through the iconic towns of the Shore. Although not set in stone, these trips/events will likely be on Tuesday's - or Sunday's if schedules demand.
• Getting Involved: I would love to see people from the community step up and help coordinate trips/events - especially if there are people with something unique to offer. Furthermore, I would like to have people who are interested in building relationships with the students along; for trips are perhaps one of the best times to make memories. Lastly, although IIF is not intended to make a charity case out of the students and I would hesitate to offer all trips for free, I would like to be able to cover travel expenses to help keep overall costs down. That being said I would appreciate help in covering that expense and/or potential help in transporting students for some trips; depending on how much interest there is.
• Church Visits/Bible Studies: Students will be invited to come to church with myself or any other person of whom they have begun to form relationships with. It would be a good chance to experience "American church" as well as to meet new people. None the less, it is important to remember that Christianity is not Western and our relational witness will likely speak louder than a church service in a language that is secondary to them. I would also like to offer Bible studies for students who are interested in learning more about the Bible and Christian faith - or to question it
• Getting Involved: Its as simple as building a relationship and inviting them to church (and maybe lunch). I would also like to have people with a deep knowledge of scripture and healthy debating skills to lead Bible studies.
• Grocery Runs: Once a week (more depending on coordination/transportation) students will have an opportunity to get a ride to an off-Island grocery store with normal prices. As simple as this sounds, lack of transportation beyond their bikes is one of the greatest gaps I've observed in past summers. 
• Getting Involved: Want to drive some students with you when you go to a store? As the pieces continue to fall into place for IIF I will be creating an online sign up to coordinate many things, rides to a store is one of them.
• First Aid Kits: Another of the greatest gaps I have observed in the past is lack of first aid supplies (mostly due to students not being able to get to a store due to work schedule). Thus, I would like IIF to be able to offer first aid kits/specific personal supplies that they can obtain if they can't get to a store. 
• Getting Involved: As the students are not charity cases and I have found most do not want to be given supplies for free, kits and supplies will be sold at far discounted prices with all proceeds going directly back into IIF's budget. None the less, the donation of first aid/personal supplies and kits are greatly appreciated as the "sale" price will not cover the actual cost of supplies. My current goal is to create 30-40 kits and have some more "advanced" supplies on hand.

There is still work to be done in hammering out a final plan and coordinating everything, however, I hope as word gets out to students and the community alike IIF will continue to take form and grow. 

I am currently in the prosses of creating a summer schedule and online sign-up to aid in coordination and effective communication. Likewise, I have created a facebook group for students as well as those desiring to help. The group is primarily where I shall be posting updates on events, sign-ups, and ways you can get involved (it is a closed group and upon requesting to join you will be asked why you want to. Simply say something along the lines of "student", "interested in helping", or "want to stay updated"). I will also be posting here throughout the summer.

Ways You Can Pray

I am beyond excited to see what lays in store for the coming weeks and hope and pray everything pulls together. I also greatly appreciate your prayers as they are perhaps one of the greatest forms of support and thus, I ask that you will continue to partner with me in prayer as IIF moves forward. Following are some praises as well as prayer requests for IIF as well as personally as the summer comes upon us. 

Praises

• Those who have already stepped up to help with IIF, offering guidance, prayers, and future hospitality to students.
• Lessons learned over the semester that have helped give direction on making IIF a reality. 
• Provision of summer housing.
• The excitement of some past and some returning students for IIF.
• God's amazing grace and sovereignty and the assurance that He shall be glorified through all things.

Requests

• Pray for God to be working with the students as they finish their year and prepare to come to America.
• For the community to desire to act upon the opportunity before them in regard to the international students, perhaps leading to a partnership with IIF.
• For someone to co-coordinate/lead with me who can help form IIF and carry on after I leave.
• Peace and guidance as I attempt to pull together more details for IIF and my own future while balancing my job, family, and overall well-being; for I would be lying were I to claim that my life is currently like a calm stream.
• Financial provision for IIF (budget available upon request).
• Humbleness and surrender for myself and all involved present or future; for we are mere vessels and things may not go us as we planned.

Conclusion

Thank so much for your time and interest in staying updated with IIF. Although there is still work to be done and several pieces I would like to see fall into place, I am excited to see what God has in store for the students, community, and IIF alike as June swans upon the horizon and May fades out. 

As always, if you have any questions, suggestions, concerns, or would like to help in any way, please do not hesitate to email me at chrissy.islandif@gmail.com. Likewise, I encourage you to join IIF's Facebook group to stay in the loop on current events/volunteer opportunities. 

Contact:

Email: chrissy.islandif@gmail.com 

Facebook: Island International Fellowship

Although not a profiting organization, Island International Fellowship is not currently a registered non-profit.

Island International Fellowship - Coming to Chincoteague Summer 2018

A  Beautiful Chincoteague Island Sunset

Island International Fellowship (IIF) is a program for international university students who have come to Chincoteague Island to work for the summer as part of their Work and Travel program (or other reasons). IIF was officially started by Christine Elliott - a college student with a heart for relationships, the gospel, and the nations - in hopes of involving the community in building relationships and helping students "experience America" on a larger scale then she has been able to two the past two summers mostly by herself and some friends.

The Vision

It started with a simple introduction to a Russian girl one night in the summer of 2016, an introduction that became the first of many conversations which lead to local adventures and a dear friendship that has lasted thousands of miles. It started when my international student co-workers became one of the main reasons I enjoyed my job so much and through story-filled late nights, bi-lingual jam sessions, and dance/dishwashing parties, we became like a family. Ultimately, it started when I had no idea it did; when in His sovereignty and by His perfect plan God begin to lay out the pieces He would later pull together in my flawed human mind to form IIF - all glory to Him for the entirety of the following (and our existence, salvation, creation in general - you get the picture).

That being said, this past summer (2017) is when the pieces really started to come together in my mind. For in addition to the co-worker "family" bond, throughout the summer I was blessed with many opportunities to build relationships with several students through things like makeshift unofficial English lessons, rides home from work (in rain/bike failure), and conversations about cultural background and religion. I was also able to take a few on some "American adventures" of a larger scale than the summer before and become especially good friends with them as a result. Amidst all these things and many more, my mind put it all together and I realized something:

There's a Glorious Opportunity Before our Very Eye's.

Each summer, there are countless university students from all over the world who come to Chincoteague Island to work. Although they come from different backgrounds and are each seeking a little something different from their experience here, the majority of them come through their university on a Work and Travel Program in hopes of improving their English or fulfilling something in relation to their program of study (kind of like a travel abroad). Many have stories and experiences abounding and are just as interested to learn of our culture and background as we are of theirs. Further, beyond their jobs (they frequently have two to get in their hours), they're seeking to meet new people, experience a new culture, and have fun.

However, most students, especially first-timers, have a hard time accomplishing this due to "gaps" such as lack of connections, transportation, and opportunities. "Gaps", I thought as I was driving my Belarusian and Russian friends home from our last adventure of this past summer, that would not be hard for us to help bridge on a larger scale then what I had been doing the past two summers. After all, although there are many more students then I have been able to reach, there are also many more people in the community that may be willing to help. After much prayer, I brought the idea of starting a program to help students bridge these gaps and "experience America" before my international student friends, as well as some people at church,  and they loved it. Likewise, I mentioned it to my college advisor and he not only liked the idea, but said it would count as the required internship for my degree. Thus, with all glory given to God for sovereignly working everything together to inspire IIF, it began the process of becoming a reality.

So, What Exactly is IIF?

Well, I'm glad you asked! The primary goal of IIF is to help students experience a growthful, fun, and memorable time in America by providing opportunities to explore on and beyond the Island, fellowship with American's and other students alike, and experience a taste of American culture. Ideally, my hope for IIF is that through our welcoming interaction and sincere interest, the students will be as open about sharing their culture and background as we are with them; thus, everyone involved will end the summer with friendships that will bridge thousands of miles, unique experiences to tell of for years, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Taking 3 students to Ocean City, MD for
our last adventure of the summer.

Although I do not currently have a set in stone plan for how IIF will accomplish this, and I am open to suggestions, one of the main ways I have been envisioning doing so is though having activities at least once or twice a week (more often if location and volunteers allow) such as:

• Coffee houses: A time to meet new people, catch up with friends, eat food, play games from around the world, and unwind.
• Movie Nights: stay-in or go out.
• Swap Shops: Students can trade clothes among themselves if they are tired of their wardrobe.
• International Meals: Students are encouraged to make their favorite dish from back home and bring it to share in a "global feast" (American food provided).
• Beach Days: A trip to the beach that - hopefully - they don't have to bike a few miles for.
• Grocery Runs: A quick escape from the Island and a chance to pay normal price for groceries.
• Home Visits: Paring students up with locals for a chance to see an American home and eat a homecooked meal.
• Rollerskating/Bowling/Laser Tag: Not nessasarly all in one event, just three ideas. 

In addition, throughout the summer I would love to see some day trips and bigger activities come together, like:

• Ocean City, MD day trip: One of the most sought-after exploration destinations of the students - also home to the Tanger Outlets.
• Salisbury shopping trip: The closest "city" with a mall.
• Grand History Tour: A day spent traveling the Shore and exploring its rich historical towns (surprisingly, this was requested this past summer).
• Norfolk/VA Beach Day Trip: the closest "real city", containing many destinations of potential interest.
• Amusement Park Day Trip: another requested destination.

As the summer gets closer, I hope to have a better idea of a rough outline for the summer, however, it will greatly depend on many factors that are still in the works (see "Getting Involved"). I would also like to be able to provide bike repair services, basic first aid supplies, and personal care items to students who may not be able to obtain them due to schedule or funds.

The Gospel and IIF

Anyone who knows me knows I have a passion for getting the gospel to the nations, and IIF provides a phenomenal opportunity to do so; as they have literally come right to us through these students. Over the past two summers, I have found that most students are far more willing - and actually quite interested - to discuss religious beliefs after a relational foundation of trust, respect, and intentional curiosity is established, rather than taking a "street evangelism" approach (ask me about the "Russian Bible's" sometime). That being said, my hope is that by the relational witness of volunteers young and old - in word and action - the students will be drawn to question our beliefs, thus voluntarily opening the door for mature religious discussion (on differences between their beliefs and ours) and above all, gospel presentations. From this, it is my greatest desire that seeds will be planted, and if He wills, that God will open the eyes of even just one student to their need for Him, and that they may take their newfound hope back to their home country.

Post-church visit snow cones

Above all, regardless of their initial receptiveness, it is my prayer that no student will leave at the end of summer without hearing the gospel message spoken and having a New Testament in their own language to take home. For, "How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching?" (Romans 10:14).

Getting Involved

There is much that needs to be done in the coming months in order for the vision of IIF to successfully become a reality, and I greatly appreciate your interest and prayers in helping make it so. What follows are some of the current most pressing needs.

If you can fulfill, aid in the fulfillment, or know someone else who can, it would be a huge help and I encourage you to contact me at chrissy.islandif@gmail.com 

I also encourage you to request to join the "Island International Fellowship" Facebook group which will serve as the hub for events, sign-ups, and connections as summer draws closer (you will receive a message after requesting from me asking why you want to join. You can just put "Interested in helping" or "following for ways to pray"). I likewise encourage you to contact me if you have any ideas or ways you can serve that are not listed. None the less, regardless of your physical abilities, prayer is always greatly appreciated and I welcome all to get involved in that way (see "Way's You Can Pray" for futher specific requests).

Pressing Needs of IIF:

• Volunteers: I can't do this alone. Thus, I'm looking for people who are genuinely interested in investing in the lives of the students to help; and no, you don't have to be college age to help (although I would certainly appreciate a good number in that age range). I'm looking for relational people willing to help with things from cooking American foods for events, to building relationships with the students through the events or opening of your home, to teaching ESL (unofficially or officially), fixing bikes, sharing the spoken gospel and answering questions, and almost anything in between. Basically, if you love God, meeting new people, and learning about new cultures, there's something you can do.
• Co-Leader: IIF is far more than just my college internship, and I have no plans of it just being a one summer-long program. None the less, my passion and call is currently overseas, and I won't be able to head IIF forever. Thus, I am prayerfully seeking someone willing to embark along with me from the "start" as we relentlessly pressure Christ and His plan for IIF, in the hopes that they will be able to lead in my future absence.
• Location: Someplace on the Island, that can be used frequently for cheap or free, and likely at night (after work). I currently have no leads, and this is one of the greatest stressors.
• Church Partners: I would absolutely love to partner with local churches on this, for it is indeed a remarkable missions opportunity. Church's could partner in prayer, financially, by providing volunteers or a space, by giving/renting use of vans & drivers for events, or some unique way.
• Finances: I cannot offer a figure at the current moment, but I have no doubt that between potentially having to rent a location, buying food for events, offering personal care and first aid items for students, transportation, Bibles, and other miscellaneous expenses, IIF will need substantial funding. 
• Nearby Lodging (for myself): This is not so much a necessity, but would be a huge blessing. In addition to IIF, I am planning on returning to my job on Chincoteague to work full time (because college isn't cheap) and between the two, I will be on the Island 6-7 days a week -likely until rather late at night. I currently live a hop, skip, and a jump away from the Island and drive a car older than myself, thus, being able to stay at least part of the week on or near the Island would be a much-appreciated miracle. 

Ways You Can Pray

Your prayers are perhaps one of the most valued forms of support through every venture, and I thank you once again for supporting me and now IIF with them. In addition to the needs listed above, below are some more personal requests as well as praises.

Visiting my Russian friend
in NYC last semester

Praises 

• God's sovereignty through past opportunities and friendships regarding the international students that have so beautifully fit together to form this vision.
• God's provision for IIF that has already begun through the opening of a few doors and affirmation of His will.
• The fellow saints who have already come forth in moral and prayerful support.
• The already present excitement from some returning students for IIF.
• The assurance that God will be glorified through all things, even though at times it feels like I've blown it. 

Requests

• For God to be working in the hearts of the students and the volunteers alike, even as we are months away from summer. Pray that he would lay it on people's hearts to help and that he would move in the students' hearts too be open. Only He can save, and it's never to early to pray. 
• To remain humble and give God the glory that is due Him.
• Diligence in keeping with deadlines and communication (if I don't get back to you, please remind me).
• Guidence. Beyond IIF, I have some major decisions to make for college and have also been given an opportunity to go overseas in late May.
• Consistency in my pursuit of God, and that I do not get so distracted by the many things requiring my attention that I vear from it.

Conclusion

Yes, at last, the end of my longest post to date is in sight. Words cannot express my gratitude to your taking the time to read this, nor for your interest in journeying with me through it. If you have any questions, would like to know more about anything mentioned, or would like to partner with me and IIF in any way, please do not hesitate to contact me at chrissy.islandif@gmail.com. This will not be possible without God at the forefront and people like you all around. Thank you ever so much and have a blessed day!

Contact:

Email: chrissy.islandif@gmail.com

Facebook: Island International Fellowship (closed group - simply request to join and respond to my message asking why you want to)

Spain - From Next Semester to Next Week

It's actually happening. One week from now I will be on a plain with 47 other college students on our way to Spain (if you're not sure what I'm talking about, see my Spain/Choir Tour post).

I am beyond blessed and excited to say that by the abundant prayers and generous help of many along with an unaccounted for scholarship, I have been funded for my trip to Spain next week! I owe many great thanks to all who have been praying with me through this journey, and of course to God for working everything out according to His sovereignty.

Going into the semester I was worried I wouldn't be able to keep up with the intense pace of the choir and learning the music for the tour in time. However, I am happy to say that with help from some friends and many hours in the practice rooms, Chorale has become one of my greatest stress relievers. I have learned so much and although I have so, so, much to still learn in the realm of singing in music I am beyond enthusiastic to keep pressing forward. I also count the relationships I am forming within this musical family very precious.

It's hard to believe we will leave so soon, and I ask that you would keep the team in prayer. As would be expected from a group of this size, there are many who have never flown and/or have not yet been overseas. Further, there is a lot going on in Spain politically right now and although our immediate safety is not expected to be endangered, complications could arise (check the news or contact me if you desire more info). I also ask for prayer for guidance and boldness among the team, as well as for God to work in the hearts of the Spaniards we come into contact with; for perhaps we were meant to go to Spain to proclaim the Gospel at such a time as this. Lastly. but certainly not of least importance, I ask you would keep those who are organizing the tour in prayer - both on the Spain and stateside end. There is so much weighing on them and I fear people get so caught up in the people performing to think of those or arranged for them to even come.

I will likely not be bringing my laptop to Spain, so I encourage you to connect on Facebook and/or Instagram for brief updates throughout the trip (if wifi allows). My hope is to have an update of the trip up within a few weeks of return. Thank you so much for taking the time to read this, it actually means a lot! As always, feel free to contact me anytime. Have a blessed day!

Contact:
elli5255@lbc.edu

Sophomore Year Underway

As I sit here pondering how to bridge the time gap between my last update and now, I can't help but think of how fast time has flown. It seems as though it were only last week when I set out to Ocean City with some glorious international students that I had the privilege to befriend, and just yesterday when I clocked out for the last time at my summer job. It almost feels like I blinked while packing my car to return to my home away from home at Lancaster Bible College, and when I opened my eyes I was six weeks into my sophomore year. However, even as I write this, memories of the time in between flood my mind and reminded me that this is not the case - and thankfully so.

So, what happened in the time in between?
After returning a week early for work (Public/Campus Safty), classes flew into full swing in late August. I dove into what would come to be at the same time the most overwhelming and intriguing class load yet. From learning about my personal leadership styles in my leadership class to the fascinating background of the New and Old Testament in NT 1 and OT 1; form learning to study music and pushing my voice to things I never knew I was capable to the insightful perspectives on the Christian Narrative - I have certainly been kept busy. However, I have enjoyed every moment (or at lest been grateful in hindsight).

This semester for my missions class I am taking Discipleship and Evangelism, which has been both wonderfully insightful and heart-poundingly intimadating. As one would gather from the name, we are both learning to effectively evangelize and actually going out and doing so - which is admittedly not something I had previously done all too often. We have gone on a few outreach trips already, and still have more planned. It has been vary insightful to see how different people respond to the offer of prayer and the gospel. Although many people turned us away, we were blessed with a few conversations with people who beyond our expectations opened their homes for us to come and share with them - all glory to God for their repetitiveness. Outright sharing my faith or offering to pray with people is still not something that comes easily to me, and I will always have things to learn, though I none the less I look forward to putting what I have learned into regular practice; for how can they believe in a God of whom they have never heard? (Romans 10:14).

What interesting things have I been up to this semester aside from classwork?
Well, I've started helping with a youth group at the mother church of the church plant I have been attending since last year (One City Church). I help lead a small group of high-school girls and absolutely love it. There's something about pouring into others that seems to give more energy then coffee (or perhaps its the fact that they have so much energy that if overflows to me). I'm also apart of two choirs at LBC. One is Chapel Guild, which is the gospel choir that I was in last year; the other is the LBC Chorale, which is their more classical choir I just joined this year and am going to Spain with (see next blog post for an update on Spain). I'm pretty sure they are a large part of why my stress level if half of what it was last year.

I'm greatly looking forward to whats in store for the rest of the semester, and I encourage you to keep a lookout for future updates on my upcoming trip to Spain, college in general, and some opportunities in the works that I am beyond excited about. As always, feel free to contact me anytime (and I will try my utmost to get back to you) and I greatly thank you for your time and interest!

Contact:
elli5255@lbc.edu