January 2025 marked a very special 25th anniversary in our Baptist Mission Australia community. And I know you will want to join me in congratulating Muana and Villy as we celebrate 25 years of ministry with Baptist Mission Australia.
While, given their humble hearts, Muana and Villy don’t want us to “make a fuss’, we do want to acknowledge this milestone and thank them for their dedicated, faithful and inspiring service.
Villy and Muana began their journey from Mizoram to Melbourne, where they built a strong partnership base of churches and individuals – many of whom still support them today. During their first decade in Thailand, they learned language and culture, welcomed Yindii and Zoe into the family and began ministry in northern Thailand. During their second decade they welcomed their third daughter Libi, Villy began a beauty therapy ministry, Muana taught English as local school and together they were involved in faith sharing and discipleship in rural areas and Chiang Mai. Over the last five years they have been based in Chiang Mai, sharing with local friends and neighbours.
Muana has been team leader for our Thai team and more recently the Cluster Advisor for Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia. He plays a highly respected and deeply valued role on the Global Roundtable.
Villy and Muana have lived a ministry of presence. Their daily lives have embodied Jesus and it is impossible to capture here all the ways they have shared hope, peace and love with their Thai community through their words and actions.
Muana and Villy are much-loved members of our community. They are humble, hospitable, fun, gentle, supportive and encouraging. Their commitment to their ministry, teammates and our organisation is exceptional, rooted in a deep and mature love for Jesus. We are privileged to have a couple of such high calibre and wisdom in our midst. And we acknowledge, celebrate and thank their wonderful daughters for their participation in God’s mission and our community.
This year’s May Mission Month theme is “More like Jesus”. When I think about that theme, I quickly think about Christ-like people who inspire me. Muana and Villy are such people. Thank you!
Congratulations on 25 years of faithful service. Let’s give thanks to God for this family on mission and pray for them in Thailand and Australia.
-Scott Pilgrim, Baptist Mission Australia