The religious beliefs within the country of Thailand are widely Buddhist, with less than 1% of the population identifying as Christians. In this context, Haggai leader and retired businessman *Somsak is focused on building relationships among believers in his country.

Many people throughout the world experienced loss of community and isolation during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout the world, churches were shut down and many sought to reach out through technology. This led to many difficulties with sharing the Gospel, and Somsak’s community was no different. But because of Somsak’s Haggai Leader Experience, God gave him confidence in leading a movement for the Kingdom, despite setbacks or difficulties.

“During the pandemic, many believers who did not use social media were forced to adapt due to that being one of the only communal spaces allowed,” he says. Through this adaptation, Somsak and his community came up with the idea to form prayer groups. They took the initiative to lead these prayer groups to not only come alongside each other in encouragement, but as a space to teach others about God and reach the unreached within the online community.

The fruit that came from the formation of these prayer groups has been plentiful. These prayer groups developed into wide-reaching prayer and worship platforms on social media that continue to encourage and strengthen faith communities and relationships with God.

A 24/7 online prayer ministry was also formed, spanning many regions. This led to a large prayer gathering a few months ago with 300 people from 11 different churches across Thailand who prayed for six continuous hours.

“This brings real unity amongst many different denominations,” Somsak says.

Somsak is also active in the marketplace, despite being retired. His vision for the community can be extracted from the mission of the company he faithfully represents as chairman. This company has a heart and passion for serving others that are in physical, mental, and spiritual need, providing food distribution, personal development opportunities, spiritual support, and counseling. It is here that he has been able to be a small part of a large impact that is being made on the local community in Thailand. Somsak has had the opportunity of witnessing true encouragement and renewal from the counseling sessions that are held for the local community.

*Name changed for security

Written by Sierra McKinnis