In Thailand, Pastor Gloh is using football to teach young people about Jesus

Edited by Susan Akyeampong

In Thailand, a predominantly Buddhist country, reaching out to children and young people with the message of Jesus was not easy. Pastor Gloh, a man with a limp caused by polio, and his friend Pastor Toowa, decided to do just that. They started a sports ministry in their village of Ratchaburi, Thailand, with the goal of reaching out to children in the community.

Pastor Gloh has a heart for the young people in his community. He and Pastor Toowa trained with Sports Friends; a ministry of SIM dedicated to using sports to share the gospel. They wanted to connect with children who might not otherwise hear about Jesus.

At first, many doubted Pastor Gloh’s ability to lead a sports ministry, given his own disability. However, a group of 9-12-year-olds, eager to play football, started joining his team. Pastor Gloh focused on building relationships with these boys and teaching them about Jesus. He shared how Jesus’ love and sacrifice offered everyone new hope and purpose, regardless of their circumstances.

The local community soon recognised the positive impact of the ministry and began supporting Gloh’s efforts. They witnessed firsthand how once unruly boys on his team were changing, with some even becoming leaders and mentors to their peers. This transformation demonstrated the transformative power of Jesus.

Pastor Gloh’s impact has grown, with new coaches joining him to further support and inspire the youth. One new coach, a recent graduate, is particularly grateful for Gloh’s influence, sharing that he might have lost his way without Pastor Gloh’s guidance and the hope he found in Jesus. He also credits sports with playing a crucial role in his personal development.

Despite his personal challenges and disability, Jesus used Pastor Gloh and his passion for the boys to demonstrate his love for us all.