Malcolm

Malcolm and his wife, Kerstin, are the leaders of WEC's Thailand branch. Malcolm first came to Thailand for a short-term mission, over 20 years ago. ‘I knew I would return,’ he says.

‘I arrived in Thailand when I was 20. During my year here, God enabled me to see things differently from when I started. I saw fear, hopelessness and despair in my neighbours and my heart broke. God opened my eyes and gave me a burden for the Thai people. I knew I would return. I married after Bible school and joined WEC when I was 26. That was 15 years ago, and the burden is still there.

‘Kerstin and I lead a terrific team of 34 people from eleven different countries, working together to see a nation transformed. Our role involves meeting our team members around the country, as well as connecting with national church leaders. I enjoy encouraging people. Sometimes it is just saying, “Great job”. Other times, it’s being with people who feel they have no option – and gently introducing an alternative. To speak hope into a situation is a real honour.

The 55 million Central Thai people are one of the world's largest accessible, unreached people groups and that is after nearly 200 years of mission.

‘There are times when the overwhelming need, every direction I look, can get to me. The 55 million Central Thai people are one of the world's largest accessible, unreached people groups and that is after nearly 200 years of mission. We have launched new church planting initiatives, but the number of long-term missionaries is in decline. Local workers often decide the pioneer ministry is too tough, and move on as well.

‘But there’s plenty to encourage us. We’ve seen various ministries develop in spite of hardships, and it’s been special to develop partnerships with other church and mission groups. I regularly promote mission to Thai church leaders, and little by little we are beginning to see a mission movement get off the ground. The paradigm shift in the Thai church from, “We only receive missionaries” to, “We can send missionaries!” is fantastic to witness.

I want to see a new generation of long-term church planters, committed to seeing communities changed and prepared to invest into the lives of a new generation of Thai believers – and Thai missionaries.

‘There is still huge potential for much more church planting. I want to see a new generation of long-term church planters, committed to seeing communities changed and prepared to invest into the lives of a new generation of Thai believers – and Thai missionaries.’

Exciting things are happening in Thailand. Is God calling you to help take the good news to the Central Thai people? Email us if you want to find out more.