Self-sufficient churches in Thailand

Focused on building self-sufficient congregations, Tom and Christine Poovong provide pastoral leadership to emerging Christian communities in northeastern Thailand. They have developed income-generation ministries, including MennoShoes and an Issaan food restaurant, businesses where Christian disciples make a steady income and are able to give back to their local congregations. The goal is to establish self-sustainable, locally run peace churches. These churches have become part of a church-planting organization called Friends of Grace Church, which is recognized by the Thai government and ministers in Thailand and Laos. The Poovongs also connect with leaders of other Thai Mennonite congregations to encourage relationships and fellowship among emerging Mennonite communities across Thailand and Laos.