INTERNATIONAL WELCOME WEEK

International Welcome Week is a massive opportunity to show International Students that we’re happy they’re here, that we care for them, and how they can get connected. At Transformations Leeds, we want to make it as easy as possible for Christian Unions as they plan the week so if there are any questions, please feel free to ask! That said, while every welcome week will be different, everything we’ve put together for you here is what has worked well in the past. Please use it as a springboard for your unique efforts and ideas that your CU team will bring to the week!

WHY ORGANISE IWW?

International Welcome Week can be one of the biggest service opportunities for the CU. In recent years, Leeds CUs have welcomed over 300 international students to the daytime cafe, and evening events, which has acted as a brilliant catalyst for further contact and friendships. Not only that but 60 international students have attended the evangelistic meal each year and, at least, 20 people who didn’t know Jesus have joined the Bible discussion at other evening events. 70 international students come to the special church welcome services linked to the week, many of whom experience it as their first time ever attending church. This is a great time to respond to genuine interest in the Christian faith from International Students rather than feeling like it’s being shoehorned into conversation.

And while IWW is absolutely amazing for international students, it’s important to remember that it’s also a significant opportunity for all CU students to be challenged and grow. You never know how God might use this experience in the future! Many of these students may feel encouraged to go overseas for either short term or long term mission work. So, while International Welcome Week is a lot of work, it comes with a brilliant purpose.

And, remember, we’re always here to help with anything you might need!

If you’ve got any questions, concerns, or suggestions feel free to drop us a line at phil.thomas@transformationsleeds.org.uk and we’ll get back to you ASAP!