YWAM Korea’s calling to serve as missionaries has never wavered, even in the most difficult circumstances or times of hardship. During the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the steps of mission work did not stop, and newly committed missionaries continued to be sent out, keeping the fire of the Gospel burning.

This year, as always, a meaningful commissioning ceremony, filled with as much passion as the summer heat, was held during the staff conference for the new missionaries who completed the 35th MOT (Missionary Orientation Training). Through the three-week MOT training held in June at Mission Village in Yongin, the new missionaries revisited the realities and direction of missionary life, strengthened their relationships with the Mission Headquarters, and reaffirmed God’s calling upon their lives.

The commissioning ceremony included three families and two single missionaries who will be sent to Laos, Vietnam, China, Thailand, and other locations. It was also a significant moment for three teams who had previously served long-term in mission fields, had returned temporarily to serve in Korea andwere being re-commissioned to go back into the field.

Most of the new missionaries previously served as staff at the University of the Nations, carrying the vision for nations and peoples that they had received from the Lord and preparing through prayer. According to their individual gifts, they will serve in areas such as music ministry, Scripture ministry, addiction counseling, and North Korean ministry.

Among the missionaries are those who will leave their children in Korea due to various circumstances, as well as missionaries facing health challenges or battling cancer. Despite all this, they are taking steps of obedience. Nothing can hinder their love for God or dedication to spreading the Gospel to the nations.

Our new missionaries go boldly to the places where the Lord has called them, leaving behind all that is familiar, and stepping onto foreign soil for the sake of His name. Though the language and culture are different, the love of the Lord remains the same, and therefore they are not afraid. Each day will bring challenges, but they will remain steadfast because the Lord holds them in His hand.

Rather than seeking visible results, they choose to walk in obedience that pleases the Lord. Even when it feels lonely or the path seems blocked, they will not stop because God’s calling is the reason for their lives.

They will pray, serve, and love so that God’s kingdom may come to this land. With overwhelming joy, they go to the places where the Lord has called them.

ㅡ Jang Hwaran,