A team from Lebueg Church of the Nazarene became the first registered Philippine Missions Team to engage in cross-cultural missions within the Southeast Asia Field, specifically in Thailand.
The team’s recent trip to Thailand marked a pivotal step in the church’s growing commitment to serve communities beyond its borders.
The 10-member team — led by Joven Laroya —was made up of dedicated volunteers from the Philippines-Luzon District. Together, they 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.
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 missions 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 missions trip 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.
“Imelda and I have been observing many of our young people in Lebueg and other local churches leave the Philippines in search of employment,” Laroya said. “Many of them become inactive in their church life. This missions trip was an opportunity to awaken their calling—to serve God even while working abroad.
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 missions trip are expected to flourish, strengthening ties between the Filipino and Thai Nazarene communities and paving the way for future cross-cultural partnerships.
“If they can integrate their 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,” Laroya said.
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.