“We are all products of missionary work,” Mallouh said. “We started in Beirut that way. That’s how God spreads the gospel.”

While the convention has ended and the guests have departed for their home countries, many will leave with fond memories of their time in Anderson.

“I really like it when I come here,” Viray said. “I studied here from 1979 to 1982, so I like to come back. I always go to that Good Will store. That’s my place! It’s so cheap!”