International Students

Over the course of last year and already this year we are seeing a regular group of international students joining the parish community for worship on Sundays.  The challenges of education are amplified by the sudden change in cultural context. 

Culture is one of those things we don't think much about.  It is really part of the furniture, what we take for granted about ourselves and often about others.  We suddenly stop taking it for granted when we up to our eyeballs in something we might think of as "foreign". 

"First Light" Celebration
at Ste.-Marie-Among-the-Hurons
Midland, Ontario, Winter 2013

In Canada, even things like the climate stand out.  If you are from a hot country the thought of the cold can be a bit scary.  My own climatic fears involve insects and reptiles. 

Here's a little practical observation.  There are things in your life to-date that will actually help you to thrive in this new context.  And there are some things that can weigh you down.  Many cultures, for example, are used to having extended family members nearby and visiting often.  Here, distance is a bigger factor.  And while we can virtually visit with things like Skype, it is not really the same because our loved ones are elsewhere living in a different context.  We need our network of support and we need to have the confidence to branch out and discover things that are new. 

Coming to a new country for education is much more than just going to school.  Even without trying you will be changed by the experience.  I hope a very important question remains on your mind:  "How can we help one another and learn from each other?"  In faith this is even more important.  It is like finding a whole new facet in our relationship with Christ, as we discover the new ways that God works in others. 

This conversation is one that will be ongoing.  I'd love to hear your observations. 

Keeping up the Prayer Life While Getting Immersed In School

Being young and jumping into new things just seems pretty natural.  The certainties of the past, however, - at least some of them - might have been left behind.  It could be that you are doing your own laundry.  At first freedom around meals might seem attractive, but there is a limit to junk food consumption. 

The rhythm of school also can be off-putting.  The more reason to get in a prayer groove.  You may have some traditional prayers you like.  The Rosary is especially good. 

Sometimes with the best of intentions fatigue and disorganization can take over a bit.  Could I recommend an app?  Why, I think I could.  I found an iPhone app called "Pray-as-you-go".  It is a daily reflection built around the readings and takes you on a bit of a guided meditation with more than enough freedom to reflect quietly and dispose yourself to the Lord.  The music is particularly relaxing and beautiful.  Well done.  Simple and inviting users to prayer and the fruitful reception of God's Word. 

So in the midst of the hurly-burly of school why not try it out.