Foreign Accent

Editor’s note: This is one in a series of PE News articles on people in the Assemblies of God under the age of 20 who are making an impact in their communities.

A 19-year-old Missouri Chi Alpha International leader is dedicated to befriending foreign students on her college campus, and as she does, doors are opening for her to share her faith.

University of Missouri sophomore Catherine Hurt became a student leader for the Columbia campus ministry’s weekly English Club during her first year at school.

Her English Club role involves leading a group of international students, who come from varying belief systems, through conversation and fun activities geared toward helping them improve their English skills and make new friends.

Hurt is also a XAi conversation partner and meets with Yingtai*, a non-Christian from China, whom she met through the MU International Center. Hurt has served as a conversation partner there as well.

When Hurt learned that Yingtai wanted to meet more friends, she invited her to XAi social functions. Yingtai could see the light of Jesus shining through Hurt and her friends and wanted to know more.  

“After a few events, she came up to us and said, ‘I really like you. What makes you different?’ ” Hurt recalls. “I said, ‘Jesus.’ ” The two now study the Bible together. Soon Yingtai invited her roommate Eu-meh*, also a non-Christian from China, to the Bible study.

“She [Eu-meh] ended up really enjoying the Bible study,” Hurt says. “She asks really hard questions. She genuinely enjoys learning about the Bible and about God.”

Although Hurt is only required to meet with Yingtai twice a month as her conversation partner, she connects with her weekly to practice English, read Scripture together, and engage in conversation. Hurt also holds Bible studies throughout the week with other international students from MU and Columbia College that have expressed an interest in learning about Jesus. 

Hurt likewise invites participants from English Club to come to her small group Bible study, which is led by another Chi Alpha leader, and introduces them to new acquaintances.

Hurt ensures that the internationals understand the words and concepts they’re reading about whether she’s at a Bible study or helping with English, says Becca Clay, Hurt’s mentor and XA international director at MU.

“She is patient in her speech, never belittling a student for not being quick to understand, and always careful in making sure no one feels left out,” says Clay, a missionary associate.

Throughout the week Hurt is interacting with international friends — opening her home to share a meal, going shopping, or hearing about the highs and lows of the day.

Clay says although Hurt has a full plate with her studies and building relationships with students from overseas, she knows Hurt is empowered by spending time alone with God every day.

“Her heart to serve Jesus and love others is amazing,” Clay says.

* Named changed to protect identity.

Jennifer Pallikkathayil

Jennifer Pallikkathayil is a public relations professional from Columbia, Missouri, who loves sharing stories of the work God is doing in people’s lives. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Iowa State University.