While we were itinerating in the States, one of the miracles that we spoke about was Santa Clara KUMC Mission Team as they served in Bangsaray. We enjoyed showing pictures from the event, because it was a time of seeing God's power at work in the ministry of the Thai Christians who witnessed faithfully and effectively. (If you did not hear this story while we were itinerating, follow this link to read about it in our blog: http://msmorrissey.blogspot.com/2008/09/miracle-at-bangsaray-and-pattaya.html )
This week, we had our first UM pastors and interns meeting at our house since we came back to Thailand. It was a joyful reunion. So many things had transpired in their lives and we wanted to hear all of their stories and be able to pray with them. At the meeting, some of the new pastors and interns saw the pictures of the event at Bangsaray, and we told them the story that we told you. They had shocked looks on their faces because they had never heard of such a thing in Thailand.
One of the evangelists at this event who witnessed to many, many people was Pastor Nampon of Almighty God UMC in Nonsomboon. She is pictured above at the event in Bangsaray (photos courtesy of Mr. Park Tae Hwa of Santa Clara KUMC -- www.thpark.com ) Pastor Nampon gave testimony at the pastors and interns meeting that she had a crisis last month. There was an senior woman who was a new believer that joined Almighty God UMC. This woman wanted to cleanse her house of idols. As usual, there was a special worship service to remove the idols. However, 2 weeks after cleansing her home of idols, this senior believer became suddenly ill and died. Her family and many in the town blamed Pastor Nampon because they believed the spirits were taking vengeance on the woman for removing the idols. Pastor Nampon faced persecution for the last month, but things have calmed down. Please keep Pastor Nampon and this situation in prayer.
The Santa Clara KUMC Mission Team will be here in September to do another eyeglass mission. They will be going up to Pastor Nampon's church. Please pray that the Mission Team's act of mercy in providing free eyeglasses and portraits will help to rebuild good relations with community leaders in Nonsomboon. This mission team and be a key to bridging trust in this town.
