While we were living in Thailand, Angie and I had many conversations with Mai and Chan about ministry, church planting, bible school, and God's call.
Last week, Mai called to inform us that she and Chan have been accepted into the Baptist Theological Seminary in Thailand. God placed a dream in us and them to start a church in Thailand known as the Grace Church. I am so excited to share this news with you all, because I know you'll want to celebrate with us!
Mai and Chan will go once a month to a week-long intensive for 26 months. She will still lead the GRACE work while she is earning her diploma in ministry. Chan will still be able to work for GRACE during this time as well. This degree is required by the Thai Government for anyone to be a pastor and baptize in the Christian faith.
This development does a couple of things for the Grace organization.
First, it is evident that God is at work in Thailand and growing our influence in the country.
Second, as Mai and Chan graduate with a seminary diploma from the Baptist Theological Seminary in Thailand, GRACE can function under the auspices of the church and not have to come up with a great amount of money to become a foundation. We simply work as a ministry of the Grace Church. We can establish these churches throughout the country just as we had planned to do with the organization.
While we were chatting with Mai, I asked her if they needed help with tuition. She said they did and I offered that the GRACE organization cover the cost of the tuition.
For she and Chan to earn their seminary degree it will cost a grand total of $2,500. I am committed to raising $3,000 to cover any incidentals and travel expenses.
Prayerfully consider how you can help. We have several ways to donate, including: online donations through the website or Facebook, mail-in donations (PO Box 4167, Cartersville, Ga 30120), or in-person donations.
If you have questions, reach out to me at jon@globalreliefassociation.com or send us a message on social media.
Angie and I often said that the work we did and continue to do in Thailand is a lot like church planting without calling it a church. Now, God is taking us down a path to actually plant a church to continue doing the work.
We, as a team, are looking forward to what else 2023 has in store for GRACE!
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