In a groundbreaking achievement, the Lebueg Church of the Nazarene has made history by becoming the first registered Philippine Missions Team to engage in cross-cultural missions within the Southeast Asia Field—specifically in Thailand. This milestone mission took place this year, marking a pivotal step in the church’s growing commitment to serve communities beyond its borders.
Led by the passionate Rev. Dr. Joven Laroya, the 10-member team—comprising dedicated volunteers from the Philippines-Luzon District—embarked on a journey of faith, service, and cultural exchange, their mission being to share Christ’s love through education, relationship-building, and outreach among diverse communities.
Teaching Across Thailand
Over one week, the team facilitated English language lessons and community interaction across four churches in Thailand, each with unique ministry opportunities:
- Bangchalong – New Creation Center: Here, the team taught children from the Myanmar diaspora, equipping them with basic English skills essential for navigating their new environment and expanding their opportunities.
- Bangkok First Church Preschool: The mission team nurtured a love of learning among preschoolers by establishing a solid foundation through play, engaging activities, and songs.
- Oikos Church of the Nazarene: In this vibrant and growing church, team members taught English and shared messages of hope, encouragement, and faith.
- Thai Pathana Church of the Nazarene: In this uniquely diverse setting, the team engaged in educational outreach, ministering to children from Muslim backgrounds with compassion and respect.
The mission became more than a teaching experience—it evolved into a mutual exchange of cultures, faith, and friendship. Through laughter, storytelling, and collaborative play, the team and the local communities formed bonds that transcended linguistic and cultural differences.
A Vision for Young Filipinos
Rev. Dr. Joven Laroya reflected on a broader purpose for the mission:
“Imelda and I have been observing many of our young people in Lebueg and other local churches leave the Philippines in search of employment. Many of them become inactive in their church life. This mission is an opportunity to awaken their calling—to serve God even while working abroad. If they can integrate employment with active participation in church missions, both at their workplace and in their home churches, then we have succeeded in empowering them to live out their faith wherever they are.”
Looking Ahead
As the team returned home, they carried not just memories but a renewed sense of calling and purpose. The seeds of hope, understanding, and discipleship planted during this mission are expected to flourish—strengthening ties between the Filipino and Thai Nazarene communities and paving the way for future cross-cultural partnerships.
This historic mission is only the beginning. The Lebueg Church of the Nazarene is committed to expanding its outreach across the Southeast Asia Field, continuing to serve as a beacon of love, service, and faith in action.
The journey of this local church proves that a small, committed community can make a global impact when it steps out in obedience, faith, and compassion—serving as a living example of Christ’s command to “go and make disciples of all nations.”
