When Thomas* arrived in South Korea in August of 2023 from West Asia, the country felt like a complete mystery.
Adjusting to the culture was hard. A once outgoing and community-oriented person, Thomas now struggled to connect. The isolation became a daily burden, as he cycled between the lab and his dorm.
“I felt excluded,” Thomas expressed. “It was like I couldn’t share anything with people.”
Hope emerged when he was introduced to SEM Café, a gathering for international students. There, he met Lindsey, IFI staff at our newest international location in South Korea.
“Lindsey is very sociable and friendly,” Thomas said. “I felt like I could easily approach her and be close to others, too. They understood me.”
Lindsey and others at SEM became a weekly source of encouragement, laughter, and community. Over time, Thomas realized SEM was a community of Christ followers. As he continued to engage with them and tried out church, he experienced true welcome.
“I felt a warmth in this family,” Thomas remembered. “I didn’t even have this with my friends and family back home!”
His understanding of Jesus began to shift. Through Bible discussions with Lindsey and worship with others, he felt the darkness in his heart lift.
“The more I understand the forgiveness of God and his sacrifice, the more I believe this is how life should be,” Thomas said. “This is how we find peace and love.”
Today, he’s exploring God and faith deeply, encouraging those who don’t know God yet to “Open your hearts and minds– give Jesus one chance.”
*Student name and photo changed to protect privacy