 “God just knows how to do things exactly right!,” states Jani Whaley, Executive Director of KIN, describing how a new KIN Embrace group of young adults’ resources, experiences, and personalities came to perfectly match the particular needs of an international family newly integrating into Knoxville.
When McKenzie from Grace Baptist Church contacted KIN about her life group's interest in KIN’s Embrace program, she shared, “We were looking for a way we could serve as a group, since each of us is so very busy with our lives, and this was the perfect fit. Many hands make the work light, and everyone in our group had giftings and talents they could bring to the table.” KIN’s Embrace program provides an opportunity for a church small group, Sunday School class, or assembly of close friends to be trained, equipped, and supported to assist an international family as they integrate into Knoxville. Ahmed and Wardha* arrived in Knoxville from Syria in January 2024 with their 2 children, a 7-year-old son with severe health issues and a 6-year-old daughter. Wardha spoke very little English; Ahmed was a civil engineer/project coordinator in his home city and hoped for employment in his field, as his English was further along. But upon their arrival, their basic integration needs overwhelmed them, including regular trips to Nashville for medical attention for their son.
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 Two little Japanese girls came running from the playroom full of children for the one who could understand them. Consistently pulled from assisting in the adult English class, Tamiko Sakaguchi soon transitioned herself to caring for the children during the Maryville ELL (English Language Learning) program. Now she orchestrates childcare for the international children like a weekly VBS with Bible songs, a story about Jesus, and games to reinforce the concepts. Tamiko, also called Tami, is a wise Japanese woman who loves Jesus. Behind her quiet smile and bright eyes is a storehouse of scriptural wisdom, a prayer warrior, a creator of games, and the power to lead.
Tami arrived in Indiana from Japan at the tender age of 15 for a school exchange program. Learning for the first time about the gospel of Jesus, she also witnessed the freedom of praying Christians who did not hide their problems. As an honor\shame culture, in Japan, problems are not shared; people bear heavy burdens alone. But Tami saw a better way... |
IMPACTRead the stories of Knoxville's local internationals and the volunteers who have impacted their lives. Get a first-hand view of what it's like to move here and/or to serve those who've moved here from other countries. Discover how KIN has impacted life and culture in metro Knoxville. Archives
August 2024
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