Why are you moving to Thailand?
Also: “Aren’t there ways you can be involved without moving?” and “Why not a ministry that combats sex trafficking in the States?” We are combining these questions because the answer to all is the same: obedience. Yes, sex trafficking is a problem in the U.S., and believe me, if we didn’t have to leave our home, friends, church, and our families that we are really close to, we wouldn’t be! The reason we uprooted and moved is because in countless little ways, God had positioned our hearts to fall in love with Thailand, and opened the necessary doors for what started as a far-off idea to become a reality. The last pivotal moment was following Brian’s trip to Pattaya in 2017. When he returned, we agreed that we would say “yes”--not even to moving, but to working towards moving, and seeing what God would do. If it became clear that we needed to stay, then we would be more than content to support Beginnings Foundation through short-term trips and financial support. However, one by one, He began opening doors and working out the obstacles and lingering questions in our minds. So, here we are!
HOW WILL YOU SUPPORT YOURSELVES OVERSEAS?
Our desire is to continue to make money in the workplace while in ministry, inspired by the Apostle Paul’s tent-making business as a way to support himself (Acts 18:1-5). A huge answer to prayer on this came in the form of a remote job opportunity for Brian! 100% of our personal expenses are covered by his salary, so that all donations go directly towards ministry.
what about fundraising?
Living in an another country can be expensive! We have a lot of needs, including visa extensions every three months, remote home office supplies, and crisis relief for the community. Interested in being a part of our mission by investing financially? Click here!
How long will you stay?
Our short-term goal was to stay for 2 years, but we have since recommitted long-term until the Lord leads us to go. In the meantime, as finances allow, we hope to make once-a-year short term visits to the States to reconnect with family and spread awareness.
What will you be doing?
Because of the nature of the ministry, Brian is not able to be as directly involved. Women in the red light districts are used to being used and abused by men, so it would be confusing for them to have him doing outreach or other direct ministry. However, Brian carries the weight of providing for the family financially, language lessons, and helping Beginnings Foundation with practical needs. Libby will minister through outreach in Bangkok & Pattaya, storytelling with photography and social media, translation, counseling, and more.
Is Thailand Dangerous?
Thailand is considered a safe place to many surrounding Asian countries, and is where many missionary families send their children to boarding school. Of course, living near the city has its share of dangers, especially on the roads. However, what we have learned over the years is that what happens in our lives isn’t always safe--none of us are immune to sickness, heartache, pain or loss, and if we let fear take control, we will never be able to fully experience the fullness of God’s plan for our lives.
What are your plans for the kids’ education?
We currently do a hybrid education with our kids, with four days a week in Thai private school (the same one the girls at Beginnings attend!), and one day at home. This means our children will be able to grow up with the Thai language, while also growing in their knowledge of necessary subjects in English at home as well.
WHAT DO YOU THINK WILL BE YOUR GREATEST CHALLENGES?
We are really close to our families, so not being able to be near them--seeing our kids grow up together, showing up unannounced, never having to pay for a babysitter, and everything else that it entails, is a really big sacrifice. For Brian and the kids, leaving our established community in the U.S. and moving to a country with a significant language barrier is understandably challenging. And of course, it goes without saying that in this type of ministry, burnout, vicarious trauma, depression, and anxiety are real concerns.
what makes you most excited?
Being a part of seeing women in the red light districts experience hope and freedom for the first time brings us indescribable joy. The reality is that many bar owners and clients don’t even bother learning their names, identifying them instead by numbers they wear. As comfortable as our lives are in America, and as hard as it was to leave, it breaks our hearts even more what these women have to go through night after night. We are so excited to work closer with Beginnings Foundation, as they show God’s love and provide life-changing resources. We are also excited to work with CWEFT to serve the vulnerable children of crowded communities in Bangkok, so they can experience empowerment and freedom through education and the love of Christ. And of course, we love being able to eat authentic Thai food every day!
Any other questions on your mind? Send us a message, and thank you so much for your support!
With Love,
Libby and Brian