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1. T H A I L A N D :
FUNERAL DEBT "MAJOR CHALLENGE" FOR NEW CHURCHES
SOME OF THE poorest people in the world are being taught how to break out of the cycle of poverty and debt, by missionaries holding a Bible in one hand and bank books in the other.
Instruction classes for young Christians highlight money issues as well as personal discipleship, in an attempt to break the cycle of poverty that often sees families broken up and daughters sold into prostitution.
Rural villagers are also being given the opportunity to learn the basics of business such as planning, savings and repayments, from Youth With A Mission workers.
For debt - frequently linked to superstition - is a "major challenge" in founding new churches in Asia, according to Steve Goode, the organization's international director of mercy ministries.
"Generational debt is a common problem in this part of the world, where fathers pass on what they owe to their sons and daughters - so the new generation enters the world already in debt and poverty," he said. "It's also what forces people to the point of selling off all they do have - their children."
Four out of five members of one new church established by YWAM workers in the north-east of the country carried generational debts, said Goode. "It is a serious problem. It is not uncommon for people to be carrying debts of as much as US $3,000 - when their annual income is perhaps less than US $300".
Instruction on finances was intended to help people achieve financial freedom. "We don't want to create dependence, but help people to learn about the value of work, planning, savings and accountability. If the gospel doesn't impact the totality of people's lives, then it really isn't the gospel."
As part of their financial lessons, even the poorest new church members are encouraged to give to offerings. "Tithing is a biblical principle - it is always truth. It may not be much - it may be one chicken out of ten, or a chicken leg from a chicken - but the principle is that as we honor God, he contributes to our welfare."
While failed crops because of bad weather is one common cause of debt, another is loan repayments for funerals. "Caring for the dead is considered very important in most parts of the world, but particularly in Asia. People fear they may be cursed if they don't honor their elders with a proper burial."
Part of YWAM's work includes offering small loans to help develop new businesses in rural areas - among them pig and chicken farming, growing flowers, and manufacturing silk. Through Project Life, a YWAM foundation, additional development loans are available from a grant by the Australian government.
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