In this column, we ask mission workers from around the SIM world to share honest insights, reflections, and practical wisdom from their own experiences. Whether you’re exploring mission, already serving, or supporting mission workers through prayer or giving, we hope their words encourage, equip, and inspire you to keep walking faithfully with God’s global mission.
Ryan Hannah and his wife Heidi have served with SIM in Thailand since 2011. Ryan recently retired as the SIM Thailand Country Director after years of faithfully leading the team and working to establish new ministries across the country. Together, he and Heidi are now on home assignment in the U.S., seeking God’s direction for their next season.
We asked Ryan Hannah, what advice would you give to someone preparing for mission work?
He highlighted two key areas: language and culture.
“Many mission workers get to a basic level with language learning and stop” Ryan said. “But true ministry requires deeper engagement.”
Please Pray
- For mission workers around the world to have patience and perseverance in learning language and culture deeply.
- That the Holy Spirit would guide mission workers into meaningful relationships as they grow in understanding of the communities they serve.
You might also like
In Botswana, ten church leaders are studying theology online while continuing to serve their churches. With support from SIM and Union Bible Institute, the...
When God asked Sara to step into something far beyond her experience, she said yes. Children’s ministry and walking with widows through grief, Sara's tes...
Francis Kuntenga, a Malawian mission worker serving with SIM among the Yao people in Mozambique, chose celibacy after a heartbreak. Today, he sees his de...
In northern Kenya’s arid regions, SIM Kenya board chair David Gargule serves as a modern-day shepherd, guiding both people and mission with wisdom.
Carpentry skills learned in the American home renovation industry are giving young men gospel hope in Senegal.
We’re pleased to announce the launch of our new SIM International website.
In southern Ecuador, Rachel Wilson is equipping local believers to follow Jesus deeply and disciple others through God’s Word.
The Lord planted Sports Friends coach John Lufani, his wife Agness and their family of five in the heart of a community hostile to the good news.
In Zimbabwe, people living with HIV are finding hope and healing through the love of Jesus. Thanks to the work of Windows of Hope and the support of volunt...
Rocio felt alone and unloved after her parents left when she was just seven. But through a Christian radio programme, she heard the message of Jesus and fo...
New Zealander Sarah Scott Webb (SIM For Freedom) has been working closely with colleagues in the European Freedom Network (EFN) and the World Evangelical A...
A simple car ride in Ecuador becomes a divine appointment to share the gospel.