The More the Merrier

As the Director of Mission for the Asia Pacific Baptist Federation (APBF), I am delighted to share recent developments and inspiring stories from our Baptist brothers and sisters in Kazakhstan.

During a recent visit to Kazakhstan, made through the invitation of the Korean Baptist Convention Foreign Mission Board, I had the privilege of connecting with the local Baptist community. The growth of the Baptist church in Kazakhstan is truly inspiring, with most believers being first-generation Christians. Their journey of faith is a testament to the transformative power of the gospel. Every testimony shared was filled with profound personal experiences and a deep commitment to their newfound faith through miracles, dreams, and transformative ministries of missionaries.

The APBF's mission to Kazakhstan was aimed at strengthening the ties between Kazakh Baptists and the broader Baptist community in Central Asia. Our discussions focused on the possibilities and benefits of Baptist in the region joining the APBF. This move would not only provide the Kazakh Baptists with greater network and resources but also integrate them into a larger network of Baptists across the Asia-Pacific region.

We explored various ways in which the APBF can support the growth and development of Baptist churches in Kazakhstan and the Central Asia region. This includes Kazakh Baptists to be senders of missionaries to the region. The enthusiasm and openness of the Kazakh Baptists were heartening, and we are optimistic about the potential for fruitful collaboration.

As we move forward, the APBF remains committed to fostering unity and providing support to Baptist communities in Central Asia. We believe that by working together, we can enhance our collective mission and witness in the region. The stories from Kazakhstan remind us of the incredible work God is doing through our Baptist family, and we are grateful for the opportunity to be part of this journey.

We look forward to further updates and to seeing the continued growth and impact of the Baptist churches in Kazakhstan and beyond.

Despite an unusual circumstance which I have to experience on one of my trip, God’s protection and provision are always evident. On a trip to one region of Indonesia, two of my friends and I were already at the airport when we heard the announcement that the airport is closed due to an eruption of a volcano nearby. One day turned into two, then three. Then, after 5 days of delays because there were no flights out, and the nearest available airport is 24 hours by land, the airport was opened, and flight resumed. I am grateful that God taught me to be patience and enjoy his protection through the delays. Even though my planned trip to Taiwan had to be cancelled because of the ordeal, I am grateful to be safe and were able to go back to my home.

Please pray for the ongoing discussion between the APBF and the Kazakh Baptist and the Central Asia Baptist fellowship. Pray that there would be mutual excitement and encouragement which will birth in the addition of Baptist in the Central Asia region to the APBF family.

Pray for divine impacts of the APBF TEAM (Theological Education – Aid – Mission) Consultation and the APBF Youth Conference in Malacca, Malaysia during the end of May, pray that there is greater unity, and a greater mobilization of Baptists in carrying out the Great Commission in Asia Pacific and beyond.

Pray for two Mission Consultation planned in the South Asia region and the Pacific region. Pray, that through this consultation sessions, there is greater collaboration for missions in the sub-regions.

Thank you for all your support and prayers for BMS. Knowing that you are praying for my ministry, and especially my family, it is a huge encouragement and a testament of God’s love through His church. Our partnership with BMS encourages as a baptist family and global network. What we experience in the UK, in Indonesia, and all over the world is connected because of our faith in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Saviour.

Blessings,

Ardi