As a Christian living in a new country, I have had to adapt in more ways than I would have expected. My faith is so important to me, and I am so grateful that it is a foundation in my life that I carry with me wherever I go! I have learned how to find community, seek out new ways to worship, and lean into God’s perfect plan for me, while relying on His close friendship and peace. 

Friends and I attending a local church! 

How I Found Community Abroad 

Before leaving to study abroad, I made it one of my goals to find a church and Christian community in the French Riviera. I knew it would be incredibly beneficial to have people I could trust and confide in being so far from home. Intentionality has been key for me during this time of change, because it can be very easy to simply fall into a rhythm and unintentionally drift from things that matter most. I have tried to keep prayer at the forefront throughout this whole experience. Before leaving, I prayed for my housing situation, that I would find friends who share my faith, and so much more. It has been so sweet to see how the Lord has faithfully answered prayers and worked in my experience so far! 

One of my favorite spots in Antibes to read my Bible 

On one of the first days in France, a few friends I met during orientation invited me to their apartment for dinner. I was so happy when I saw a Bible on their bookshelf. Then, we had a conversation where we all bonded over attending Christian universities, and we prayed over our meal. This has been one of the biggest blessings so far. Having like-minded friends has been so special to me and an answered prayer! Since this dinner party, these girls have become some of my closest friends here. I believe that God delights in our requests that honor Him, and He is faithful to provide—and even if He doesn’t, He is still good. 

I was so grateful when I arrived because CEA CAPA provided me with a folder full of practical information, including local churches. My new friends and I went to one of them the first Sunday we were here and loved it! The people were extremely welcoming, and the service was in English and French. This was such a cool aspect because it gave me the opportunity to work on my French listening skills while taking in the message. The worship was also in both languages, which was so special. I really can’t stress enough how hospitable everyone is at this church. I am so excited to deepen the relationships I have made! This is another sweet example of how the Lord faithfully provides when we seek Him. 

It has been so interesting to go to churches throughout Europe and learn more about the history of my faith! 

New Ways to Worship 

Studying abroad is a huge change. It’s a new country, new people, new routine, new everything. It can be hard to adapt, but it is really essential to keep faith at the center. To adjust, I have had to find new ways to worship and spend time with God. This has looked like reading my Bible where I find the time, attending a new church, etc., but also in very simple, everyday moments. Little conversations with God throughout my day, praising Him for His creation that I’m getting to experience, and thanking Him for all the new opportunities. It has been amazing to witness God’s protection and care for me during my study abroad experience. There are so many things I prayed for before leaving home, and it’s the best feeling when I realize I am living out answered prayers.

Endless opportunities to worship God for His creation 

‘Home Church’ is one particular way I have adapted with my spiritual life. On certain Sundays, my friends and I have decided to stay home and lead our own Bible study/mini church service. We gather in one of our apartments and make breakfast, sing worship songs, and watch a message online, usually from one of our churches at home. These times are so special to me. It is such a good way to connect with my friends and to enjoy a quieter, special time to worship the Lord. Also, watching services from our home churches is a great opportunity to feel a comforting connection to home. One huge blessing for me has been that my friends’ apartment came with a guitar. Music, specifically playing piano and guitar, is one of my biggest hobbies, so being able to play and sing has meant so much to me. During Home Church, I play guitar and we all sing our favorite worship songs together, sharing new songs with one another and singing traditional hymns. It is such a simple and sweet time. This has been one of my favorite changes. I love how casual and honest these times of worship are! 

Quiet Bible study at home 

Relying on God’s Close Friendship 

While studying abroad has been so amazing, there are also many challenges that inherently come with a huge transition. Learning how to rely on God as a friend has been essential for me. I think I have learned to view my relationship with Him more simply. There is value in routine and structure, but also in spontaneous, casual prayers or awe at His creation. This has been interesting to adapt to, and I’ve learned that there is no ‘right’ way to be with God. I have found that it is essential to embrace flexibility in my spiritual life. This is a new season, and it’s okay that this aspect of my life isn’t the same as it is at home! It has been so special to witness how God is with me wherever I go, and He is faithful to provide, no matter what season I’m in.