International Ministry
International students, scholars, and families are a wonderful part of the Bloomington community, and ECC is committed to welcoming and serving those who have come here from around the world. We desire that internationals from all countries and religious backgrounds connect with our church family and experience the love of Jesus Christ through meaningful activities and services that build friendships, meet practical needs, and provide opportunities to grow in understanding of the Bible and the Christian faith.
We sponsor weekly activities and special events that encourage Americans and internationals to interact in an atmosphere of friendship and respect. All Americans and internationals are welcome to participate.
English Conversation at ECC
Thursdays, 7:00-8:45 pm
Each week, we discuss common vocabulary, slang, and idioms related to practical life topics and U.S. culture. American volunteers lead table discussions allowing everyone to participate. Classes are free, and students are welcome to attend at any time during the semester. Rides to the classes are provided from various locations on and off campus. Rides are given home to your apartment after the class.
Bible Discovery Groups (BDG)
Arranged at various times during the week
Are you interested in learning about the Bible’s teachings in a comfortable and friendly atmosphere? Individual and small groups of 2-8 people meet weekly to discuss passages that provide an overview of the Bible’s message. Together we will discover truths that can help us in our lives and affect how we view God and other people. No previous knowledge of the Bible is required, and all are welcome to participate. Transportation will be provided.
Rides to Sunday Worship Meetings
ECC has regular worship meetings at 9:30 AM and 11 AM on Sunday mornings. Adult and children’s Bible classes also take place during each time. If you would like to attend a worship meeting and/or a Bible class, we are happy to give you a ride, sit with you, answer questions and introduce you to friends at the church. You are welcome to visit for the first time or attend each week with us.
International Fellowship Luncheons
Various dates, 12:30-1:30 after the Sunday worship meetings
We invite internationals and Americans to gather together for lunch and meaningful interaction. Food may be provided by church volunteers or brought in from a local restaurant.
Bloomington International Student Ministries (BISM)
Locally, ECC’s International Ministry has partnered with BISM (www.iubism.org), a coalition of evangelical campus organizations and local churches seeking to share Christ’s love and truth with internationals in Bloomington. BISM provides services, organizes social events, and offers opportunities for internationals to grow in their understanding of the Christian faith. We invite and encourage our international and American church family to participate in BISM events throughout the year.
The ECC International Ministry is affiliated with and coordinated by local campus staff of International Students, Inc. (ISI), a national non-profit Christian organization serving internationals on college campuses across the U.S. (www.isionline.org). ISI is registered as a student organization with the IU Student Activities Office and IU Campus Religious Leaders Association (CaRLA).
Contact Randy Hawes: rahawes@indiana.edu