The district of Tan Hong in Vietnam has approximately 76,300 residents living there, the majority of whom ascribe to ancestor worship, Buddhism, and other religions.  Local residents are completely unaware of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  However, beginning in August 2008, two youth who had accepted Christ (named Huynh Van Hong and Ho Quoc Ky) took upon themselves the tasks required to start a church in Tan Hong, such organizing a Christmas program in 2008, going to training classes for lay ministers which took place in Cai Lay, Tinh Long An and the General Southern Baptist Convention meeting at Ho Chi Minh City as well as witnessing to close acquaintances.

From a place where people had never heard of the Gospel of Christ, now a Pastor Hung from Ho Chi Minh City has come to evangelize and encourage as well as disciple members for the future of the church.  From a place where there was no location for fellowship gatherings, there is now a place to worship.  From a place where there was no one to go into the ministry, now there are several local youth who have volunteered to serve God. 

Looking back at the entire last 4 years, we thank the Lord for He has brought to realization these three things to the people here in Tan Hong.   We believe what He has started He will bring to completion. Currently Kirkwood Church is assisting Ho Quoc Ky financially to pursue theological studies as well as helping him continue to serve to build up the church in Tan Hong.  Kirkwood is also providing finances to help the members have a physical location for worship.  The Southern Baptist Convention in Vietnam will have a meeting with officials who will provide the papers giving the church the ability to hold regular activities according to the Vietnamese governmental religious committee on June 29^th, 2009 as well as recognizing Ho Quoc Ky as a religious minister. 

These are positive initial steps but there remains many difficulties in evangelizing and building the church in the province of Tan Hong.  In order for the work of spreading the Gospel to become more effective, Tan Hong Church has been designated as a branch of Kirkwood Church.  

We need to pray more that there will be many more believers in Tan Hong, that many missionaries and pastors will come and train leaders, and that many new church will be started.  May the name of the Lord be glorified from now till the day the Lord returns!

Written by Anh Hoa Doan