Thailand (MNN) — The need for missionary schools is growing with the influx of missionaries to Southeast Asia.
Wycliffe Associates is helping expand a large school in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Thailand
is a stable mid-point for areas in Southeast Asia in which missionaries are working. The
school currently has 500 students but is expected to double in the next three to five years.
By helping with the expansion of the school, Wycliffe is supporting the missionaries they send to do Bible translation in the area. Missionaries who are at ease about their children's education can stay in the field longer, and Bible translation is a long-term project.
According to Bruce Smith of Wycliffe, there is a lot of work to be done. "While there are several dozen translations that are in progress, there are a couple hundred more that haven't even been started, so this is a long-term investment. We're looking at this in terms of its value for the next 30-40 years," said Smith.
The school is a multi-story building to which a classroom block is being added. The school has already purchased extra property and has a well-established campus.
Smith said they would love to have people volunteer for the project whenever they are available. "There's going to be a need for all different kinds of trades, from concrete work, to masonry, to carpentry, plumbing, painting, all of those kinds of skills, and people who are just willing to help with their handyman skills as well. This is something that a lot of people can plug into. I don't worry about having too many people at this point," Smith said.
As with any project, there is a need for funding. Half of the money is in hand; a quarter is covered by a no-interest loan; and Wycliffe is helping raise the rest.
Click here if you'd like to help fund this project.
Click here if you want to learn more about helping with construction at the school.
