From Michigan to Thailand
June 06, 2009
Cory and Kim Klein still minister to students ... but in a new context.
After serving with GCM at the University of Michigan, Cory and Kim Klein now minister to students in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Needless to say, it’s a little different. Instead of the idols of football or materialism, Thai students visit a spirit house on campus to offer gifts to appease evil spirits or get good grades.
As a Buddhist nation, Thailand has only around 1% Christians. Corruption and human trafficking are rampant. Sadly, Christianity has a bad image, due to the Western men who are complicit in the widespread prostitution of Thai children. Yet Thailand is also known as “the land of smiles,” as its people are very friendly and hospitable.
Cory felt God calling him to overseas missions one summer at Leadership Training. He realized, “There are so many opportunities for Americans to hear the gospel, but in other countries, people go their whole lives without even hearing about Jesus.” Cory is indebted to New Life Church, not only for baptizing and discipling him, but also for encouraging him toward overseas missions when he thought all the doors had been shut. The Kleins have now been serving in Thailand with a student ministry called The Centre, since November 2007.
“The Centre is a place where students can practice conversational English for a very low cost, so there’s always a waiting list,” says Cory. “We focus on providing quality English classes and building relationships with students to share Christ’s love.” Through cooking nights on Wednesday, parties on Friday, and regular outings and conversation, students are able to build friendships with Christians. The Centre also has Bible studies and partnerships with local churches to help students grow in their faith.
“What excites me about this ministry is that some students who have come to Christ are now becoming leaders,” says Cory. “We’d like to see Centres started in many cities throughout Thailand.This year the Centre is expanding to Korat, a city northeast of Bangkok. My personal hope is to plant a church in Chiang Mai focusing on university students. The Centre is a good step in preparing for this.” Please pray for the Kleins as they work to learn Thai, and pray for the students who have not yet come to know Christ. “Also pray for more workers to come to Thailand, as there is much potential for the gospel, but more workers are needed,” asks Cory.
