Thailand (MNN) — Near the border of Thailand and Burma is a town called Mae Sot. It's the main land gateway between these two countries; as a result, Mae Sot has become a prominent trade hub and safe haven for Burmese refugees.
It's also known to be a hotspot for drug and human trafficking, as well as child prostitution.
This area of darkness is where missionary Raimund Homberg and his family set up shop in 2005. They started Avoda School, helping Burmese refugee students avoid these perils and find new life in Christ. It also helps students "master life" by learning biblical principles and self-assurance, becoming financially literate, mastering e-commerce, and earning real income.
Operation Mobilization starts a partnership with Avoda School in a few days.
"We are also trying to rescue abandoned children and Burmese refugee children," says the leader of OM Thailand. "We hope to raise children with the Gospel and help them become leaders."
If you're a teacher passionate about reaching the next generation, OM could use your help; find details here.
Either two English-speaking men or two English-speaking women are needed, as the school is operated by single Burmese and Thai ladies. Language continues to be a barrier at the school, as refugee kids speak barely any English and haven't quite gotten the hang of Thai.
While secular groups often accuse believers of using their activities as a front to convert Buddhist children to Christianity, the Thai government is open for Christian NGOs to help educate the large number of Burmese refugee children in this area. Pray for guidance and wisdom as the partnership between OM Thailand and Avoda School is developed.
OM Thailand's goal is to develop future workers and church leaders among the Thai youth. They reach young adults in a variety of ways: English camps, university ministry, outreach programs, discipleship training, church partnership, and church planting.
Pray that OM would be able to send workers to the school in September. Pray that believers would respond to the needs of Burmese refugees in Thailand.
