1. What is the motivating factor in starting this ministry?
The main motivating factor is God’s commission and clear direction from Holy Spirit to start a Myanmar Ministry in Singapore. God has given me one purpose and two Bible verses for this ministry.
The purpose: All Myanmar nationals will hear the good news of salvation at least once in their lifetime.
The verses: “And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock, I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.” Matthew 16:18, and “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28
2. What strategies or approaches did you use?
I apply personal evangelism to reach out and connect with the Myanmar nationals here. Members also start to bring their friends to church by friendship evangelism. We conduct two evangelistic outreach services twice a year to reach out to many pre-believing Myanmar nationals.
3. What was one of the toughest challenges you encountered? How did God and your team resolve this?
There are many tough challenges since the beginning. I am the only full-time minister and working with volunteers. If I must name one, it will be the “No permanent status of the team”. They are in Singapore only for a period and then they go back to their homeland. They have to work long hours and have many concerns for their families back home. Right now, a handful in the leadership team is permanent, but they have less time for ministry because they need to care for their young children and carry out their responsibilities in their jobs.
Therefore, I must continually train new members to become mature believers and take on leadership roles in the team.
4. One advice to give to someone who wants to explore ministry planting?
You need a clear calling and direction from God, have a strong love for the people and a burden for their souls. You must have a firm commitment to this ministry despite many seen and unseen challenges. And you should always pray and ask the Holy Spirit for guidance in every facet of the ministry.
