The International Center

A Home Away From Home.

The Christian Campus House (CCH) International Ministry is a place to learn more about American culture and traditions, find help with conversational English, experience unique events and trips, and develop friendships along the way! David Sowers, Dennis, and Linda Messimer are our staff members who are specifically dedicated to ministering to international students.  Many volunteers work with them as well.

What is CCH?

The Christian Campus House is a group of people who come together to worship God, learn about God through studying and following the Bible, and serve others by offering love and kindness. Our purpose is simple: Honor God; Love People.

Our Hope for You

CCH has developed practical programs to help you adjust to life in Columbia. Most of these programs are listed below. We also know that it is extremely valuable for you to form friendships with members of your host country. We would like to offer our friendship and help you make connections within the larger community, so that your experience in America is enriching and fulfilling both outside and within your academic work.

And finally, because we know that many of you have heard ideas about God, the Bible, and the Christian faith, we invite you to ask us any questions you have. We warmly welcome you to study the Bible with us and hear its message first-hand. Our goal is to serve you during your time in Columbia. Through this, our hope is that you would gain an accurate understanding of God and Jesus Christ and might see and experience an example of genuine Christian life and worship.

English Language Partners

Part of the reason you have come to the US may be to improve your English language skills. With this program, we arrange for you to meet with an American language partner for an hour every week to practice spoken English. Over the years, we have found that this program is also one of the best ways to develop friendships and experience life in your host country.  If you would like an American partner, please contact David Sowers at 573-999-6448.

Bicycle Lending Program

Transportation can be a problem in American cities, like Columbia. While we cannot help you purchase a car, we can provide a bicycle for you to use for a semester. If you need a bike, please contact Dennis Messimer at 573-424-2406.

Furniture Assistance

CCH has a small collection of furniture and access to vehicles capable of transporting large items. We may be able to provide some pieces that you may need and/or help you transport furniture to make your living arrangements more livable. Please contact David Sowers at 573-999-6448 for more information.

Events

Several times throughout the year, CCH International will arrange activities in surrounding cities or towns. These trips may last anywhere from half a day to a weekend, during which we stay at our destination for up to two nights. To be notified of these trips, go to the section under CCH International called “Register with Us” (below).

International Hike & Picnic

Sunday, September 20th, 2026 | 2:00 PM
Enjoy a hike through the beautiful Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, followed by a picnic at the Billy Gilbert Park Shelter.
Need a ride? Meet at CCH by 1:45 PM and contact David or Dennis at CCHInt@gmail.com or David at 573-999-6448

Bonfire & Picnic

Sunday, October 18th, 2026 | 3:00 PM
Join us for a relaxing afternoon of food, fellowship, and a bonfire at Paul and Naomi McGowan’s beautiful retreat area.
Need a ride? Email CCHInt@gmail.com or contact David at 573-999-6448.

Fishing Outing

Sunday, October 24, 2026 | Time TBD
CCH and International Friends are teaming up for a fun day of fishing at Jim and Melanie Abernathy’s pond.
Details and transportation information coming soon.
For more information, email CCHInt@gmail.com or text Dennis at 573-424-2406

International Thanksgiving Dinner

Friday, November 6, 2026 | 6:00 PM
Celebrate Thanksgiving together at CCH’s annual International Thanksgiving at Forum Christian Church.
For more information, email CCHInt@gmail.com or contact David at 573-999-6448.

Journey to Bethlehem

Thursday, December 10, 2026 | 6:00 - 9:00 PM
Experience the Christmas story through Journey to Bethlehem at Capital City Christian Church in Jefferson City. Step into the story as you reenact Mary and Joseph’s journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem!
Interested in attending? Please let us know ahead of time by emailing CCHInt@gmail.com or contacting David at 573-999-6448.

Contact Us

We’re glad you’re here! If you have questions, want to learn more about CCH, or would like to get connected with our international community, we’d love to hear from you.

Have a question?
CCH Office: 573-442-6443
David Sowers, International Minister: 573-999-6448
Email: CCHInt@gmail.com

You can also fill out the form below. Whether you’re new to Columbia, looking for community, or simply want to learn more, we are here to help!