The Collegian

Issue date: 9/10/09 Section: Down the Hill

Sophomore Drew French overlooks the Lebanese landscape during his missions trip.

Sophomore Drew French lent a helping hand overseas after finishing his freshman year at Hillsdale College.

French embarked on a mission trip through Faith Church in his hometown of Milford, Ohio. French began his journey on May 15 and stayed through Aug. 1 in Aley, Lebanon, spending his summer making friends in the Middle East.

"Lebanon is the most open nation in the Middle Eastern countries," he said. "It is half Christian, half Muslim. Lebanon is a unique situation in the Arab world."

French said he received the opportunity for his trip via a missions organization affiliated with his church. He said he could not name the group because they do not operate publically in Lebanon. The organization made French a logistics intern and sent him to Aley where he helped transport other volunteers and performed maintenance work.

"The organization tries to share the light of Jesus with the unreached parts of the world," he said. "Half the time I was facilitating ministry as I was helping those with experience spread the word by building friendships. The other half I was doing it myself."

Matthew Francis, one of French's newfound friends and a native of Mieh w Mieh, Lebanon, said he enjoyed showing French traditional Lebanese culture. The two stay in touch through Facebook or MSN messaging, Francis said.

"I think Drew spent some great times here in Lebanon in either serving the Lord or with spending time with his residence family or friends such as me," Francis said via Facebook messaging. "All in all, I think Drew had a blast in Lebanon."

French said he has many memories from his trip. Chief among these were his frequent drives picking up other mission workers throughout Lebanon.

French said he gained many lasting memories making the four to five hour drive through the length of Lebanon by road.

"Driving was very interesting," he said. "There are no rules on the road at all. It was like a big game."

French's father David said he initially felt concern for his son's safety. Visiting French June 28 through July 6, David said his worries about Lebanon faded once he entered the nation.

"Lebanon is overall a beautiful country," he said. "The people were warm and friendly. They were very eager to talk."

French said many of his Lebanese friends have kept in touch with him after departing. He frequently chats with them via Facebook and Skype and plans on returning someday.

"The Lebanese want to understand us," he said. "Politics aside, they're ready to be friends. It was a great experience and I can't wait to go back."

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