With 87% of the population adhering to Buddhism, Thai people often view Christianity as just another religion that teaches them to be and do good. When I arrived in Thailand in 1977, only .02% of the population was Christian. Presently, there are 1.31% Christian adherents with 0.65% of those being evangelical believers.
Christianity grew slowly for many years. However, ten years ago, the Pentecostal movement really established itself with many people witnessing miracles and healings, while being set free by the power of the Spirit.
Nevertheless, since the majority of believers are first-generation Christians, Thailand needs biblically trained leaders more than ever. I work with the Full Gospel Assemblies of Thailand to mentor and train leaders for all aspects of ministry, including church planting, children’s and youth ministry, and women’s ministry. I also advise those overseeing the various ministries I have helped establish over the years.
I have served in Thailand for more than 45 years. I first taught missionary children and then taught English as a Second Language. This led to my networking with other Pentecostal groups in developing a six-level, three-year curriculum for ages 2-18 and training teachers for church ministry. I also was the academic dean of Thailand Pentecostal Seminary, while working alongside the Full Gospel Assemblies of Thailand in developing women's and children's ministries. Because of my longevity in the country, many local educational districts have sought my advice on developing English departments in Thai schools. Notwithstanding, my greatest achievement is raising two Thai children, and I am now a proud grandmother of four grandchildren.
