.png)
MLHS International Ministry: May 2025 Update
- MLHS
- May 5
- 6 min read
A Message from Mrs. Renée Ruediger, International Coordinator
Soon, we will mark the end of another amazing school year at MLHS. We have grown, learned more than we have ever known, and served our neighbors daily through our actions. Yet there are still 4 teenagers—3 of which are already classmates with your children—who need your help.
David, Coco, Li, and Nora are our last international students looking for host families for next year. They are looking for a loving family to show hospitality to them. Hosting is a powerful ministry. It allows you to show Christ’s love in a tangible way, making a lifelong impact in a young person’s life.
Our international students come to MLHS for various reasons, but the point they all have in common is the desire to learn and be in God’s Word. You can be this Christian outlet for them.
The apostle Paul reminds us: "Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality." (Romans 12:13)
Hosting a student is a leap of faith—but one that brings remarkable blessings far beyond putting a roof over a child’s head. It brings love, compassion, and change. Past host families often share how hosting not only changed the student’s life, but deeply enriched their own. New bonds are formed, new cultures are celebrated, and new perspectives are gained. Children in the home learn compassion and service firsthand. Parents find their faith and family life invigorated. And the Gospel shines brightly across borders.
You don’t need to be a perfect family — just a willing one.
You don’t need a perfect house — just a heart to share.
We provide support and guidance throughout the year for host families, helping you every step of the way. A monthly stipend is also available to cover all living expenses. Most importantly, you’ll have the prayerful encouragement of your school family behind you to motivate you every day.
“Show hospitality to one another without grumbling.” (1 Peter 4:9)
If you've ever thought about making a difference, this is your moment. 4 students are waiting — praying — for a family to welcome them. Could that family be yours?
In Christ’s Love,
Renée Ruediger
International Coordinator
Stories from Students that need homes next year...
Zedao | MLHS Sophomore
Hello! My name is Zedao. I am a sophomore at Manitowoc Lutheran High School. I am originally from Hangzhou, China. I first applied to MLHS back in the Spring of 2023 for the upcoming school year, but my visa was denied 2 times before I was accepted. I was thrilled when my visa process was finally accepted. It felt as though I waited forever! Now that I am here, I never want to go back. I’ve made so many friends, and I can’t imagine leaving them.
Back in China, I spent all of my time studying. I never had any time to do the things I wanted to accomplish. Now that I am in America, I can do all the things I wanted to! I even joined the wrestling team and robotics team since I have the time for it. If there was a badminton team at school, I would have joined that too. I may have overcommitted myself a little bit, but it is better than having no time at all.
I enjoy watching anime after studying at night, and I like to call my family when I get the chance. My favorite anime is Gundam, but I will watch anything if there is time for me to do so. I play badminton with my friends at the YMCA whenever I can. It is my favorite sport, but the YMCA does not have a badminton net, so we have to use other nets instead. I also play the clarinet in band. I have been playing for several years now.
My father is a pastor, so I grew up in a religious house. I take God very seriously, and believe He is the reason I am at MLHS today. Faith is a priority in my life, and I would like to live with a family likes to talk about God. I get along well with pets and siblings, but I can be quiet when I first meet people. It takes me some time to warm up to others.
I know that I want to go to college in America after high school, but I have not decided what for yet. I am interested in too many things right now to make that decision. I know God will lead me no matter where I end up. I cannot wait to meet my new host family!
David | MLHS Freshman
Hello! My name is David! I am a freshman at Manitowoc Lutheran High School. I am originally from Beijing, China. I first applied to MLHS because my sister is a junior here. Since then, I have made many friends and fill my days hanging out with others.
My friends all say I'm funny and energetic. I love badminton and running, and participating in cross country. I love spending time with my sister Christina at the gym and at home as well. I also enjoy roller skating and adore pets. My dog back home is named "Monkey". I will play any game you give me, but one of my favorites is Call of Duty.
One thing I want to accomplish while in America is going to a good university. I am not sure what I will do for a job. Maybe a pastor... or a mechanical engineer... or a car mechanic? One thing I know for sure is that MLHS has been a great opportunity for me.
I was in the campus house this year. I would still like to be in the campus house if possible, but my host mom feels overwhelmed, and I want to do what is best for her. I have no preferences for host families. I think I can adapt to any setting easily.
Coco | MLHS Freshman
Hello! My name is Coco, and I am from Hangzhou, China. It is a busy city in the heart of China. I am currently a freshman at MLHS, but my host family has relatives moving in and will no longer be able to host me next year. They have been amazing for me, and have helped me get out of my shell.
My favorite hobbies are singing, reading, and painting online. I love being in choir, and have been singing with others since I was a little girl. I can be quite shy about my art sometimes, but not about my singing as much. I am not very big on sports, but I want to get better. Actually, I am trying out track and field right now! I know it is important to be active for your health. It is just not something I really enjoy. I also like playing video games! Anything fantasy-related is fun for me.
Both of my parents are pastors in different respects, so faith is important to me. My host family is helping me plan my baptism since I never got the chance back home. I don't know what I want to be when I am older, but I know God will be there with me.
I am not picky about host families. I am respectful and get my chores done. I would prefer a quiet house if possible. I am not an outgoing person, so I may get overwhelmed by a lot of people. I am excited to spend another year at MLHS with a wonderful family!
Nora | Incoming Sophomore
Hi! My name is Nora. I come from a small village in Valencia, Spain. I am a freshman this year. My parents heard about how amazing America is from their colleagues, so they decided coming to Manitowoc Lutheran High School would be a wonderful opportunity for me! Also, I have been learning English for some time, so I can communicate well with Americans.
I have a younger sister. My grandparents also live next door, so we spend some weekends together. We are all Christian. Actually, I am going through Catechism classes this year, so hopefully I can learn more about Christianity before I get to MLHS.
I am not very into sports, but I enjoy swimming. I also love reading romance, romantasy, and history novels. I can read 600 pages in 1 night! Some of my other hobbies include listening to music, social media, and playing my flute. One of the reasons my family chose to go to MLHS was so that I could be in a strong music program.
I don't have much difficulty with English, but I may feel tired after speaking English all day long. I hope my host family is kind and has a younger or older sibling for me to hang out with. Multiple siblings would be even better! I have no preference towards pets. Both sides of my family have cats and dogs.
I can't wait to be there!
“So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith.”
Galatians 6:10
If you are interested in learning more please contact Renée Ruediger, International Program Director | 920.682.0215 x 112 | rruediger@mlhslancers.org
Comments