TWO DECADES OF GOD’S FAITHFULNESS: CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF MINISTRY

by Rev Seeda Saengkasa, Pastor-in-Charge of Shineforth Methodist Church and Chaplain for Vineyard Methodist School. She is married to Rev Chinnakorn, and they have two teenage children. She loves the Lord, and she is passionate to serve in every ministry except anything related to numbers.

People from different places coming together for the 20th anniversary service.

Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God? (John 11:40, NIV)

We thank our Almighty God for His faithfulness, love, and grace in guiding Shineforth Methodist Church (SFMC), Vineyard Methodist School (VMS), and the Mettakij Hostel (MH) in Chiang Mai, Thailand. All three entities had the privilege of celebrating their 20th anniversary together on 5 October 2024. It was a day filled with heartfelt thanksgiving to God, who made all things possible. Indeed, to God be the glory.

Anniversary cake cutting by leaders from VMS, MMF, MCA, MMS, and BRMC. Group photo!

Despite the heavy flooding in Chiang Mai during that period, God’s grace guided us through the preparations. The occasion was truly special, filled with joy among members, guests, and leaders, including representatives from the three daughter churches planted by SFMC: Thung Yao Methodist Church, Nong Yaeng Methodist Church, and Mittaphab Methodist Church.

Gift for representatives from MMS, MMF, VMS school board, and BRMC who has contributed to the growth of the church for the last many years.

Shineforth Methodist Church began as a small church with one ministry in October 2004. We started with a children’s ministry known as the Lamb Club. From this humble beginning, SFMC has grown to include various outreach locations. Over the last 20 years, God has blessed every aspect of our ministries, and we trust Him for even greater things to come. Through serving Him, we have learned and grown in countless ways. In times of difficulty, God has been our help; in times of success, He has been our guide. In every season, we give glory to our faithful God.

Choir with members from different churches.

We are deeply grateful for the support of Barker Road Methodist Church, which has faithfully upheld us through their prayers, service, and giving. We also thank God for the Methodist Missions Society (MMS), the Thailand Mettakij Foundation (MMF), the school board of VMS, and all the members of the Methodist churches who have dedicated themselves to serving God alongside us.

Ps Derrick giving the exhortation at SFMC 20th anniversary service.

And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again. (2 Corinthians 5:15, NIV)

Distinguished guests from Singapore.

Thanks be to God.

Group photo!

About Vineyard Methodist School, Chiang Mai, Thailand

A school established by MMS to provide formal education with Christian morals principles from Kindergarten to Primary School children. (www.vms.ac.th)

About Mettakij Hostel, Chiang Mai, Thailand

A hostel established by MMS to provide a place for poor and needy children from remote villages to continue their school education and be exposed to a Christian environment.