“Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” – Galatians 6:10

There’s a good chance you’ll miss it the first time you pass by. It’s only a small storefront, and the noodle vendors that daily set up shop in front of it keep it somewhat hidden. But there’s no hiding that God is at work within the lives of the family of believers at By Grace Lutheran Church, located on the southeastern side of Chiang Mai.[slideshow=88]

Since 2006, By Grace Lutheran has been the second WELS Lutheran church in the city of Chiang Mai. Thai Vicar Niran Temsakul has shepherded the congregation there since its inception. Each academic term, students from the “It Is Finished” Bible Institute and Seminary also serve as interns for the church, preparing the sanctuary for worship, leading the liturgy and music, as well as teaching the children Sunday school.

The Holy Spirit’s work within the congregation is evident. One recent spiritual benchmark within the congregation was a special Sunday worship that included the confirmation of seven adult members and the baptisms of four more children. Now, these congregational members will have the opportunity to join in an even closer fellowship with one another and with the Lord as the confirmed members begin to partake in the sacrament of Holy Communion.The month of December has been especially full of spiritual growth opportunities for friends and members of By Grace Lutheran. To coincide with an extended Father’s Day holiday weekend, the congregation held its annual three-day family camp together with the members of Promise Lutheran Church. Entitled “The Embrace of Christ,” the camp was a means for in-depth Bible study, worship, fellowship, great food, and games. On one Friday night, members invited one another into their homes for an evening of Christmas caroling, reading of Scripture, and prayer; on a recent Saturday evening the congregation gathered again for a Christmas service and dinner. Also, using the Christmas story as their focus, WELS Kingdom Workers offered a week-long session of evening English outreach classes at By Grace Church. These classes were attended by contacts of the church, some of whom heard the Christmas story for the first time there.

Vicar Niran has explained that the congregation at By Grace Lutheran has the feel of a family to it. It’s evident in the way they gather together, care for each other, and grow together in the Word of God. As you celebrate this Christmas holiday with your family, please ask the Almighty Lord to continue to strengthen the family of believers at By Grace Lutheran. Though quite far away in Chiang Mai, Thailand, they’re your brothers in sisters through faith as well.