What might God do in 2025?
By Susan Akyeampong |
As we step into 2025, there is a sense of excitement and expectancy among those serving in mission work worldwide. From remote villages to bustling cities, SIM’s Entity Directors are preparing for what lies ahead, trusting God to bring transformation and hope to unreached and underserved communities. To gain insight into their vision and prayers for the year, we spoke with leaders across the globe about their hopes, challenges, and how the global Christian community can pray and support their work.
Which unreached people groups need our prayers?
SIM Namibia Director: “Namibia doesn’t have ‘unreached people groups’ as defined by less than 2.5% Christian. However, there are ‘least engaged groups’ who need our attention. The Dhimba and Zemba communities in the rural northwest and the San (Bushmen) in the east are particularly underserved. Smaller tribes along the Caprivi Strip also lack significant engagement. These groups need our prayers.”
What excites you about what God might do in your region?
Peter Ong, SIM Malawi Director: “I’m eager to see the Church in Malawi catch a deeper passion for global missions. As more congregations embrace this vision, we’ll see a ripple effect, with churches becoming mission-focused and sending out more missionaries.
I’m also excited about young people stepping up to God’s call. Their energy, creativity, and passion are invaluable to the mission field. Imagine a new wave of dedicated, enthusiastic missionaries inspiring others to join God’s work!
Lastly, innovative initiatives to fund missions could be transformative. Sustainable solutions will ensure financial constraints don’t hinder the spread of the Gospel. With God’s guidance, we’ll support missionaries as they go to places where Jesus is least known.”
What’s the theme for your region this year?
Andre Touche, SIM France/Belgium Director: “One word: labourers. As Matthew 9:37-38 reminds us, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few.’ Our hope for 2025 is to see more workers sent into the harvest field.”
Watson Rajaratnam, SIM Southeast Asia Region Director: “Our theme is: ‘Remaining Focused on Our Mission.’ Inspired by Nehemiah 6:3: ‘I am carrying on a great work and cannot come down.’”
Supporting the mission in key regions
Victor Freedlund, SIM Madagascar and Botswana Director:“In Madagascar, 2025 is pivotal. We anticipate appointing an in-country director, becoming a full SIM signatory, and sending 25 missionaries while receiving 25 more. Our ministries span medical work, education, children’s homes, Bible teaching, community development, emergency relief, and leadership training. Youth-focused initiatives like sports ministry and education are crucial, especially in reaching animistic and Muslim areas.
Mauritius holds potential as a sending church. Ministries here include Bible teaching, children’s work, and outreach to Hindu, Muslim, and migrant communities.
In Botswana, we’re prioritising leadership training, children’s ministry, and sports outreach. Strengthening links with the San people and engaging youth in Scripture Union schools are key goals. Across all regions, the need for informed prayer, appropriate workers, and financial support remains constant.”
How can the global church help?
Victor’s advice is clear and echoed by all our leaders:
“Pray regularly and with understanding. Being informed about the challenges and opportunities makes prayers more impactful.
Send workers. Many regions urgently need skilled and committed individuals to share the Gospel and support local initiatives.
Provide financial resources. Sustaining mission work and launching new projects often hinges on generous giving.”
As this year begins, opportunities to make an impact for God’s kingdom are all around us. From raising up workers to financially supporting projects, there are countless ways to bring hope, healing, and the gospel to those in need. As a united Christian community, let’s commit to praying, sending, and supporting so we can share Christ’s love with the world.
Why not explore the pages of our mission entities on the website to learn more about their work, and join us in praying for them throughout the year.
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