Vision Trip: The Church in Malaysia
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Hey there! My name is Bronwyn, and I am fundraising for a vision trip to Malaysia in May of 2024 through the Maclellan Scholars program at Covenant College. This trip is an opportunity for me to experience and learn more about Malaysian culture. Most of all however, this is a chance to witness the way that the church is led in Malaysia, and how Christian leaders guide other Christians in both private and public atmospheres.
This helpful PrayerCast video provides a succinct window into Malaysia and its people.
Background:
Malaysia prides itself in being a land of cultural and religious diversity with a natural beauty and relative stability that draws from around the globe. Oil-riches, low costs, and a well-educated workforce has propelled Malaysia forward economically. However, with Islam as the state religion, the country has been challenged with how religious minorities can be accommodated harmoniously. For Muslim refugees in particular (especially from Yemen and Myanmar), it is an accessible land of opportunity. It is also an education hub, drawing university students from all over Asia and Africa. The church finds its
roots in Portuguese, then Dutch, then British colonization. Later, Indonesian and Australian missionaries evangelized the East Malaysian tribes. But the most pervasive root system is early 20th Century immigration of Christians from China. The rich missionary history stretches back to Francis Xavier arriving in 1545 and a bible translation project by a Dutch missionary begun in 1612 (only a year after King James authorized the enduring English translation).
What Do I Hope To Gain From This Experience?
What is Christian fellowship like that transcends all social barriers? What does the church look like in a religiously diverse society? How does she serve and evangelize under Islamic restrictions? What are the issues that obstruct healthy ecumenism? Given a rich history, what is the role of foreign missions today, and Presbyterian missions in particular? What is the vulnerable church’s responsibility in care and justice for the poor? These are some of the questions that stimulate my curiosity. I am excited to experience
a different culture and people in order to grow in my appreciation for the unique ways that God is working around the world.
Expenses:
The cost to participate in this trip is approximately $3000, including transportation and all on-site expenses. I have committed to raising this money by March 15, 2024.
I would really appreciate your prayers for me and this trip, and If you would consider donating to this fund, that would also be a great help.
Thank you very much,
Bronwyn Kickasola
Organizer
Bronwyn Kickasola
Organizer
Astoria, NY