Mission Partner: Karen Border Ministries

The Karen Border Ministry, (KBM) is situated in Thailand near the border with Myanmar (formerly Burma), so this year with the pandemic there have been especial challenges.  Initially, Covid was contained, but then cases began to grow in Myanmar (formerly    Burma) and the Thai border was tightened to prevent the spread. In February 2021 the Military took control of the government and this has had far reaching effects. Peaceful protests were met with violence, earlier memories were triggered, fear dominated, families were split, freedom was curtailed, travel difficult, raids, bombings, random attacks and youngsters being taken as porters for the military.  Now, in spite of money being in the banks, withdrawal is restricted and day to day living is a challenge. Life is difficult.  

The KBM helps to support 3 nursery schools and an orphanage in Mae La Refugee camp which houses 50,000 people which was slowly winding down to closure but has now seen an increase in numbers as people flee in fear. 

50 Km further north, also supported by KBM is Noh Bo Academy where 200 students are taught by local teachers and volunteers when possible. The end of the academic year in early March 2020 meant students went home - locally, from Myanmar (formerly Burma) or from refugee camps. They returned in July 2020, not June, because of Covid restrictions. As the first semester holiday came the border was closed and some students were unable to go home, then, or for        subsequent breaks. Funding fell, the economy dropped but expenditure increased as students had to be provided for during the holidays as well as during term time. The eleven strong Parish Team due to go out to teach there in November was unable to go.  

Students completed an academic year in March 2021 and those due to graduate have done so, but options are limited. Many uncertainties, much change but the Karen people who run this work in Thailand have a strong faith in God, who is the same yesterday today and forever, who is sovereign and loves them, is wise but who moves in mysterious ways. These uncertainties are sadly not unusual for the Karen. Life may be inconsistent, but God is always to be relied upon. Please pray for them, their faith, peace, welfare, safety and future.                                                    Gwynneth and John Cooper