Unlock the transformative power of international student ministry and discover how one woman's passion is changing lives across the globe. If you're curious about how churches can effectively engage students from other cultures, or wonder how to turn volunteer passion into impactful ministry, this episode is for you.

Join us as Paula, the visionary executive director of ACMI (the Association of Christians Ministering Among Internationals), shares her inspiring journey—from coming to faith in an American family, to leading a network that unites diverse cultures for God's mission. Learn how ACMI supports and connects churches and individuals worldwide, fostering cross-cultural discipleship, prayer, and global partnerships that are reshaping how we view mission among students.

We explore practical ways to get involved, from participating in online conferences to joining prayer teams that cross borders 24/7. Paula reveals her innovative volunteer recruitment strategies—like standing on street corners to invite engagement—and discusses the vital role churches play in discipling international students amidst global upheaval. Find out how listening to diverse voices can help us trust God's sovereignty and foster deeper, more effective ministry.

This episode is perfect for church leaders, missionaries, and anyone passionate about global missions right in their local community. If you believe God's heart beats for every nation and want to see your church thrive in international outreach, tune in now. Discover how connecting globally begins with simple steps that grow into life-changing impact—because everyone has a place at God's table.

• The story behind ACMI's 45-year legacy and its role in supporting international student ministry worldwide.
• How diverse, volunteer-driven networks sustain global mission efforts without paid staff.
• Practical tips for churches to incorporate international students into their discipleship, prayer, and outreach strategies.
• The importance of listening to non-Western voices and partnering across cultures to foster truly global ministry.
• How prayer and unity among believers can sustain us through political turmoil, cultural shifts, and personal challenges.

Whether you're new to international student ministry or a seasoned practitioner, you'll find encouragement and actionable insights to deepen your involvement. Paula's passion and innovative approach remind us—God is building His kingdom one relationship at a time, across borders and beyond boundaries.

Join the global movement—your role in God's story of renewal and reconciliation starts here.

You can connect with us on Instagram @GlobalTablePodcast or email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠globaltablepodcast@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠.Please visit our website at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠globaltablepodcast.com⁠⁠

Most effective international student ministry models are rooted in genuine relationships—Deej’s "Coffee & Culture" approach turns casual conversations into profound encounters with Christ. Want to see how simple gatherings over tea and cookies can open doors to eternal transformation? This episode reveals how small, intentional efforts can foster deep friendships and share the gospel naturally.

Discover how Deej went from organizing humble café nights in Europe to creating a thriving, scalable "TalkTime" model in the US—where questions from students lead to authentic faith conversations. We break down practical strategies for outreach in small towns and big cities, from setting up multicultural theme nights to encouraging students to bring their own culture into the conversation. You'll learn how asking the right questions—like “What’s your favorite food?” or “What’s your hope for this year?”—can unlock spiritual curiosity. Deej shares stories of students from Iran, Korea, and Africa whose lives were forever changed by relational evangelism, not by programs or sermons.

If you’re passionate about reaching international students—and worried about limited resources or cultural barriers—this episode is your blueprint. You’ll see how creating a warm, inviting environment rooted in cultural sharing turns strangers into friends and friends into followers of Jesus. Whether in a small town or a bustling city, these simple, reproducible models empower you to multiply impact without needing a big budget or a church building.

Perfect for missionaries, church planters, campus ministers, or anyone eager to make Christ known through genuine community. Tune in and discover the difference a cup of tea can make when shared with love and purpose. Because when you let relationships lead the way, salvation often follows naturally.

You can connect with us on Instagram @GlobalTablePodcast or email us at ⁠⁠⁠globaltablepodcast@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠.Please visit our website at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠globaltablepodcast.com⁠⁠

Embark on a transformative journey in "Traveling from Eastern to Western Christianity," where we delve into the rich tapestry of Eastern and Western Christianity. Join Estera, a Romanian evangelical, as she shares her faith journey from growing up under communism to embracing the global Christian community in the United States. Discover the challenges and triumphs of cultural transition and the profound impact of international student ministry. This episode offers inspiring insights into cross-cultural experiences and celebrates the unity of the global faith community.

You can connect with us on Instagram @GlobalTablePodcast or email us at ⁠⁠⁠globaltablepodcast@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠.Please visit our website at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠globaltablepodcast.com⁠⁠

In this episode of Global Table, hosts Deej and Valerie sit down with Trae Vacek, the National Director of Bridges International, to explore his remarkable journey from a finance background to leading a global ministry. Trae shares his personal experiences as an international student in China, the pivotal moments that shaped his faith, and how these experiences have fueled his passion for international student ministry. Discover how Bridges International is creating a home away from home for students across the globe, fostering leadership, and spreading the message of Christ. Tune in for inspiring stories of transformation, cultural exchange, and the profound impact of faith-driven community building.

You can connect with us on Instagram @GlobalTablePodcast or email us at ⁠⁠globaltablepodcast@gmail.com⁠⁠.Please visit our website at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠globaltablepodcast.com⁠⁠

Join hosts Valerie Althouse and Deej as they sit down with Dr. Allen Yeh to explore the transformative power of polycentric mission and international student ministry. Discover how global perspectives are reshaping faith communities and the importance of listening and learning in a diverse world. Tune in for an enlightening discussion on cultural blind spots, the evolving role of theology, and the impact of international students in spreading the love of Christ. #GlobalTablePodcast #PolycentricMission #InternationalStudents

You can connect with us on Instagram @GlobalTablePodcast or email us at ⁠globaltablepodcast@gmail.com⁠.Please visit our website at ⁠⁠⁠⁠globaltablepodcast.com⁠⁠

Join us in this compelling episode as Richard Mendola takes us on a journey from his Buffalo/Sicilian roots to becoming a global ambassador of faith. Discover the profound impact of international student ministry and how hospitality serves as a cornerstone in building meaningful relationships and sharing faith. Richard delves into the art of storytelling in evangelism, highlighting its power to convey biblical truths and engage diverse audiences. Through cultural exchange and faith leadership, Richard's story exemplifies perseverance, humility, and the ripple effects of faith across generations. This episode offers a unique perspective on global ministry, emphasizing the importance of cultural diversity in enriching our understanding of God and enhancing worship. Tune in to explore how Richard Mendola's journey in international student ministry continues to transform lives and communities worldwide.

#RichardMendola #InternationalStudentMinistry #GlobalAmbassador #FaithJourney #StorytellingInEvangelism #CulturalExchange #Hospitality #GlobalMinistry #FaithLeadership #InternationalFriendshipsIncorporated #IFI

You can connect with us on Instagram @GlobalTablePodcast or email us at ⁠globaltablepodcast@gmail.com⁠.Please visit our website at ⁠⁠⁠⁠globaltablepodcast.com⁠

Join us at The Global Table as we explore the transformative power of sports in international student ministry. Discover how faith, friendship, and athletics unite diverse cultures and create lasting connections. From running marathons to playing pickleball, our guests share inspiring stories of how sports serve as a bridge to faith and community. Tune in to learn how you can make a difference in the lives of students from around the world. #FaithInAction #GlobalMinistry #SportsAndFaith

You can connect with us on Instagram @GlobalTablePodcast or email us at globaltablepodcast@gmail.com.Please visit our website at ⁠⁠⁠globaltablepodcast.com⁠

Join your hosts, Deej and Valerie Althouse, as they kick off Season Two of The Global Table: Conversations in International Student Ministry! This episode features a deep-dive conversation with their first guest, Reverend Dr. Jin Lee, to explore the strategic importance of ministering to international students.

Dr. Lee, who himself came to the U.S. as an international student from South Korea, shares his powerful story of cultural transition, pastoral calling, and how his experience has shaped his approach to ministry. He discusses how crossing cultures allows him to better discern the centrality of the Gospel versus cultural preferences in ministry (29:55).

• Valerie's "Overhaul" (1:18): Meet your co-host, Valerie, now officially going by her full name as they launch into a new season.

• The Power of Diversity (7:48): Dr. Jin Lee shares how falling in love with the cultural diversity of the U.S. set him on his unique journey.

• A Missionary to America (12:40): Hear Dr. Lee's mother's unique perspective on his calling—he is an "ambassador of Christ" and a missionary to America.

• Introducing the World Changers House (38:08): Valerie and Jin unveil the vision for the Scott Alt House, World Changers House in New York City.

• Strategic Impact: Multiplication, Not Addition (42:36): Discover why the ministry focuses on intensely training a small group of high-impact international student leaders.

• Reaching the Unreached (44:16): Explore the compelling, biblically-grounded strategy of focusing on students from Unreached People Groups (UPGs)—many of whom are from large nations like Japan and Bangladesh (48:19).

• Influencing Future World Leaders (54:40): Learn the astonishing statistics: 43% of world leaders were international students in the US or UK. Ministering to them today is the most strategic investment for the future of the Gospel and human flourishing.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about missions, church planting, and the strategic role that international student ministry (ISM) plays in fulfilling the Great Commission. Learn how to share the love of Christ with the nations in our midst by equipping the best and brightest to become global disciple-makers.

Listen now to find out how God is changing the world through international students!

#InternationalStudentMinistry #ISM #WorldChangersHouse #MissionsPodcast #GlobalMissions #UnreachedPeopleGroups #DiscipleMaking #ChristianLeadership #NYCMissions #TheGlobalTable

You can connect with us on Instagram @GlobalTablePodcast or email us at globaltablepodcast@gmail.com.Please visit our website at ⁠⁠globaltablepodcast.com⁠