Thrive’s vision is to see women ministering overseas thriving in their God-given purpose. As they flourish, there is a ripple effect to their families, ministry, and community, and God’s kingdom advances. We accomplish this through the volunteers who serve in various roles at each retreat. Many attendees expressed amazement that so many have come so far just to serve them.

Each volunteer was touched by a common theme of loneliness heard throughout our week in Thailand. Some global women are lonely due to language barriers, others because they are the only person who looks like they do (hair, skin color, size) in their communities. Some experience conflict with coworkers, which also creates isolation. Our hearts were broken for women in difficult situations.

This Thailand retreat had many attendees from restricted-access (also called creating access) areas, meaning we can’t share the details of their story or their pictures. They may serve where sharing the gospel is illegal, or Christians are social outcasts or even persecuted. Being in an area like that further reinforces isolation.

Friends, these are our sisters in Christ. This could be your daughter, granddaughter, or one of her friends. When they visit your church, do you really SEE them, ask good questions about their ministry, offer to buy them some new clothes? When they are away, can you send a card, a care package, an email, or schedule a Zoom call so that they know you love and cherish them? Each one of us is called to take the Gospel to the ends of the earth. Not all of us will travel there, but we can love, support, and encourage those who do. I challenge you to make a difference in the life of a global worker today!