Language Learning with a Purpose

OM International

Language learning in Central Asia has taken on a different twist to the method that OM uses widely. Seven students are not only learning everyday phrases and words in order to live in the country, but they are also memorizing 15 sentences in the local language – based on 12 Scripture verses – that are friendly to the lcoal culture and share the story of God and Jesus. This will enable them to share their life and testimony with the Kazakh people much earlier than before.

The programme was borne out of frustration and experience of one of the long termers, who went through the normal language lessons in a neighbouring country, befriended nationals, and then after she became comfortable with the language, shared that she was a Christian. This surprised her new friends who wondered why she hadn’t told them before. Melanie* couldn’t because she didn’t know how to speak their language well enough. This led her and another team member to develop this new program that incorporates Scripture memorization into the language learning.

Every three months, the students must learn and be able to recite three verses. At the end of the two-year program, they will have mastered all of the verses in order to share God’s love for the Kazakhs. In the meantime, they can start conversing bit by bit, while developing relationships with their new friends. Pray for these students and for the Central Asian people to be open to hear and receive God’s love.

Credit: OM International
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Missions Gallery
Central Asia

Bottled tomatoes for the winter<br>A jar of bottled tomatoes typical of home canning in Tajikistan and Central Asia. Afghan Olympic Hero<br>Olympic bronze medallist becomes national hero. Veiled woman stocks up on food<br>Veiled woman stocks up on household supplies, possibly the recipient of relief aid. Outline of city against snowcapped peaks<br>Outline of city against snowcapped peaks Two men in discussion<br>Two men in discussion City in the moutains<br>A city with barren mountains in the background.

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Job opportunities in Central Asia

  • Assistant Regional Director & Project Manager
    Our team in a Central Asian city which has been the historical gateway between Central Asia and the Indian continent is in need of an ASSISTANT REGIONAL DIRECTOR,PROJECT MANAGER. This person would assist the Regional Director in overseeing the programs and Managing the office and finances of projects. He would also be instrumental in developing new projects as the team capacity will expand. (M)
  • BOOKKEEPER
    A recently established carpet weaving project in a Central Asian country is presently in need of an BOOKKEEPER. They would help to manage daily cash flow, disburse funds, keep the ledgers, etc. This is a voluntary, non-salaried position. (C)
  • Community Development Project Manager
    Our Community Development Program in an ancient Central Asian city which used to be a center along the fabled Silk Road is in need of a PROJECT MANAGER. This work is focused on empowering poor women in and around this city. This person would be involved in managing existing programs and expanding/developing new ones. (M)
  • Construction Project Manager
    Our team in a charming Central Asian town surrounded with lush green rice paddies and wheat fields in summer is looking towards expanding programs in education to include reconstruction of schools. For this to be possible we need a CONSTRUCTION PROJECT MANAGER. This person would initiate and oversee construction projects working with a national counterpart. (M)
  • Country Director for local NGO
    Our NGO, located in "roof of the world" capitol Central Asian city, is looking for a new COUNTRY DIRECTOR. This should be a person of vision and compassion, desiring to make a difference in a land weary of war. This would include leading the current work, overseeing personnel and finances, and expanding and initiating new projects as opportunities arise. (M)

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A testimony to the God who provides.Nov 2008,
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Afghanistan needs the Spirit of God
Afghanistan needs the Spirit of GodSep 2008,
Olympic bronze medallist becomes national hero.

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