: Thailand District Celebrates “Grow Together” Family Camp 2026

Growing Together in Thailand

Dear friends,

I’m grateful to share a glimpse of what God is doing among the churches of the Thailand District.

From October 23–25, 2026, 159 people gathered for the district’s three-day “Grow Together” Camp. Participants came from local churches across Thailand, including congregations serving Myanmar communities. Pastors, church leaders, young people, and members came together for worship, spiritual renewal, fellowship, and leadership development.

This gathering brought back a special memory for me. About 12 years ago, I attended a family camp like this one, and only four churches were represented. Today, the Thailand District includes 18 churches and is moving toward becoming a Phase 2 district. Seeing this growth is a wonderful reminder of God’s faithfulness and the work He is doing through His people.

Though they serve in different places and face different challenges, those at camp were reminded that they belong to one family in Christ and share in God’s mission.

Worship and young leaders

Worship was one of the camp’s most meaningful parts. People from different churches and backgrounds praised God together and celebrated His faithfulness.

About 50 young people took part in the activities. They had opportunities to build friendships, develop their gifts, and serve with growing confidence. One participant reflected:

“The worship was a key part of the camp. We saw much new confidence in the youth of each of the local church worship teams.”

That growing confidence encouraged pastors and church leaders. Young people are not only the future of the church; they are serving God in its ministry today. Through worship, youth activities, and drama presentations, they were able to express their faith and discover the joy of serving together.

Encouragement for pastors and leaders

The camp also offered pastors and local church leaders a chance to learn from one another and be renewed for ministry. Serving in a smaller congregation or a community with limited resources can sometimes feel isolating. This gathering gave leaders space to share their experiences and remember that they are not alone.

Pramuan, a lay pastor serving in Northeast Thailand, described the encouragement she received:

“This camp restored our strength as local church pastors by reminding us we are not serving alone.”

An adult Nazarene Discipleship International (NDI) workshop also helped participants strengthen their understanding of discipleship and the work of nurturing spiritual growth in their congregations. Through preaching, teaching, and fellowship, leaders returned to their churches encouraged to continue serving their communities.

A wider church family

For many participants, the camp was a valuable opportunity to meet fellow believers from other parts of Thailand and experience the wider district family. Pastor Decha shared the gratitude of the group from Ubon:

“The members from Ubon are so grateful for this camp and the opportunity to meet everyone. God is blessing each one so much!”

The gathering concluded with Holy Communion, a moving reminder that participants are united in Jesus Christ and called to serve Him together.

Growing beyond the camp

The “Grow Together” Camp is part of the Thailand District’s continued commitment to discipleship, leadership development, and strengthening local churches. From April through October 2026, District Superintendent Phanom visited eight churches and five church plants to encourage and support local congregations. The district also continued Nazarene Foundations training, helping believers grow in prayer, worship, Bible study, and their understanding of Nazarene identity.

As the district prepares for its upcoming assembly and considers the possibility of becoming a Phase 2 district, these efforts are helping churches stay connected and leaders grow in their ministry.

I’m thankful for everyone whose prayers, generosity, and support helped make the camp possible. Please continue to pray with us:

1. For lasting spiritual growth: May the seeds planted during the camp take root and strengthen faith, discipleship, and ministry in local churches.
2. For pastors, leaders, and young people: May God renew those who serve, develop young people’s gifts, and raise up faithful leaders throughout the district.
3. For the Thailand District’s next steps: Please pray for unity and wisdom as the district prepares for its assembly and moves toward Phase 2 status.

Thank you for standing with the churches of Thailand. When I think of the four churches represented at camp 12 years ago and see the 19 churches in the district today, I am amazed by God’s work. May He continue to bring renewed faith, stronger churches, and transformed communities.

Together in faith, together in mission, and together in Christ,

Bill Kwon

Field Strategy Coordinator, Southeast Asia Field