On June 7, 2026, Pastor Khumi entered the presence of Jesus after a courageous battle with malaria. For eight years, she faithfully served as a pioneer missionary in the remote villages of Northern Rakhine, one of Myanmar’s most difficult and least-reached regions.
Pastor Khumi’s journey began through the influence of a faithful widow named Lin Puii, whose humble bamboo house connected to Nine Mile Church became a place of prayer, discipleship, and mission. Like Lydia in Acts 16, Lin Puii opened her heart and home to God’s work, helping nurture future leaders. Among those shaped by her example was Pastor Khumi, who learned that following Christ meant carrying the gospel beyond familiar places to those who had never heard.
Responding to God’s call, Pastor Khumi dedicated her life to serving the people of Northern Rakhine. Despite challenging travel conditions, limited medical care, widespread poverty, and spiritual opposition, she remained committed to sharing Christ’s love and making disciples.
Her faithfulness bore lasting fruit. What began as a small pioneer ministry grew steadily over the years. Early reports recorded five churches, 82 baptisms, and 177 new Nazarenes. By 2025, the ministry had expanded to twelve churches, trained local leaders, and helped prepare future ministers for service. Today, approximately 700 believers worship Christ throughout the wider Northern Rakhine ministry.
In early June, Pastor Khumi became ill with malaria while serving in the village. After several days of worsening illness, she was transported to Minbya Hospital but never regained consciousness. She passed into the presence of the Lord she faithfully served on June 7.
Pastors and church leaders across Myanmar remember her as “a good soldier of Christ” who “remained faithful until death.” Her life reflected the words of Romans 15:20, taking the gospel where Christ was not yet known. Though her earthly ministry has ended, the churches she helped establish and the lives she impacted continue to testify to God’s faithfulness.
By Bill Kwon, SEA FSC
