In the rugged hills near the border of Laos, a quiet yet powerful movement is unfolding—one marked by resilience, faith, and sacrifice. This region, once ravaged by war and still bearing its scars, is now a frontier of spiritual renewal where the Gospel is taking root in some of the most challenging conditions imaginable.
This particular province is steeped in history and hardship, and is one of Vietnam’s most underdeveloped areas. Its people are resilient, and among them is a growing community of believers—many of whom live under social pressure, economic hardship, and, at times, persecution. Despite this, their hunger for God's Word is palpable.
Recently, we held a vibrant outreach for 40 local children. Every single one of them responded to the message of faith.
We also gathered 30 pastors and church leaders for a seminar—15 of them journeyed across the border from Laos, where being a Christian can come at a heavy price. These leaders, often isolated and lacking formal training, soaked in every moment. Our translator, a dedicated student from the Bible school where I teach, bridged the language gap with great clarity.
We focused our teaching on the Foundations Series, covering vital topics like The Authority and Power of God’s Word and Through Repentance to Faith. It was more than just instruction—it was a time of deep encouragement and spiritual renewal. We urged each leader to take what they learned back to their home churches and pass it on.
Despite the searing heat, the rough, unpaved roads, and the absence of basic comforts like toilets or air conditioning, God’s presence was unmistakable. We could sense God's deep love for these people—though they had nothing, their hearts were full of love for Him.
Many we met are forsaken by society—rejected, impoverished, and persecuted. Yet their hearts remain wide open to God. During our time together, people wept in repentance, found peace in prayer, and even experienced healing. These are not just emotional responses—they are the fruit of a faith tested in fire.
One pastor’s story deeply moved us. He had been imprisoned twice and beaten for his belief in Christ, but his faith never wavered. He told us,
“They can take my freedom, but they can’t take away what God has done in my life.”
Miraculously, after years of harassment, the authorities now seem to have grown weary of persecuting him. In his village, small house churches are now springing up—bringing hope in a place long overlooked.
These leaders are planting seeds of faith under immense pressure, and they need our support. Please pray for these pastors—for courage, for resources, and for opportunities to plant even more churches in this spiritually hungry land.
The Gospel is alive in this area—not in comfort, but in courage. Not in plenty, but in perseverance. And through their suffering, these faithful ones are becoming a force of strength for the Kingdom.
