Our Church, Our Home | Welcoming the World Through ESL

"My English improved a lot through the classes, and I feel much more confident speaking with Americans."

— James de Almeida, ESL Student

When James de Almeida moved to Houston, enrolling in the ESL program at St. John the Divine became one of the best decisions he made. He came to improve his English. What he found was a community where he was welcomed, encouraged, and soon felt at home.

Every Monday and Wednesday morning, the classrooms of St. John the Divine come alive with conversation and fellowship. Students in the ESL program gather, preparing for grammar and conversation classes. While they hail from places around the world, their purpose is the same: to improve their English. Yet, alongside grammar lessons and conversation practice, students discover something even more valuable: a warm and welcoming community where they build confidence, form friendships, and find a place to belong.

That sense of belonging doesn't happen by accident. Through the generosity of St. John the Divine's members, the ESL ministry provides classroom supplies, meals, and activities. Just as importantly, volunteers generously share their time and talents to create a community where students are known and encouraged. ESL Director Shannon Hicks witnesses those moments of belonging every week. "Our volunteer teachers and parishioners donate hours of their time and talents to our program. Students benefit from feeling loved, learning English, and gaining a wonderful community at SJD."

The ministry transforms volunteers, too. Reflecting on his experience, ESL Instructor Bill Donovan says, “Teaching ESL is like traveling around the world without leaving Houston. It's the most enjoyable labor I've ever done. It's a gift to be able to help the students. And they are a gift to me, too."

Volunteer Sarah McParland says the friendships formed through ESL are the ministry's greatest gift. “ESL at SJD is like a mini–United Nations. Students are excited to learn, communicate, and make new friends. It's a recipe for beautiful friendships. I love being part of this community because I can share love with people who are far from home, while they open my eyes to new ways of seeing the world and loving my neighbor.”

James came to St. John the Divine looking for better English. Like so many others, he found something more.

Through the generosity of St. John the Divine, ESL offers far more than English instruction. It creates a place where neighbors become friends, volunteers discover purpose, and newcomers to Houston find a community ready to welcome them. Week after week, this ministry reminds us that our church is not simply a place we gather on Sundays. It is a home where people from around the world are invited to belong.

Find Your Place

Interested in learning more about the ESL ministry or volunteering? Contact Shanon Hicks to learn how you can help welcome students from around the world into the St. John the Divine community.