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For Graysen—a young, single cross-cultural worker in Thailand—ministry doesn’t happen in a pulpit. It happens in classrooms and cafes, and tea stands, in tutoring sessions and mentoring conversations with at-risk youth. His mission is clear: to offer a safe place, a role model, and the hope of Christ to students who are searching for stability, success, and belonging.

But one government document nearly brought it all to a halt.

Visa renewals are a constant challenge for international workers. The process is murky, the regulations ever-changing, and the pressure immense. For Graysen, this year’s renewal came with a daunting requirement: he needed to prove that he had a level of religious education equivalent to a multi-year seminary degree. The problem? His training had come through non-traditional pathways—intensive courses, experiential learning, spiritual formation, and years of cross-cultural training through TMS Global.

Graysen called me, overwhelmed and uncertain. “I’m not sure how to prove this,” he said. “I don’t want to lose my visa—or this ministry.”

As the director of Training and Formation at TMS Global, I assured him we would figure it out. I began compiling every piece of training Graysen had completed since he joined TMS Global: course descriptions, learning objectives, hours logged, formation milestones, and ongoing coaching. Piece by piece, we built a comprehensive record of the depth and scope of his ministry preparation. We prayed. We submitted the paperwork. And then we waited.

Then the message came:

“My visa application has been approved/endorsed by the Evangelical Fellowship of Thailand!”

And a few weeks later:

“They just stamped my visa and passport! It took a few officers to get it all approved but I am good to go. God is good!!! Thank you for all the prayers and paperwork!!!!!!”

At TMS Global, this is what we do—not just train, but walk alongside. We stand in the gap during the stressful, unseen battles so cross-cultural witnesses like Graysen can keep doing what God called them to do.

This work would not be possible apart from the support of partners like you. Your prayers and financial gifts help disciple-makers stay on the mission field longer, bringing redemption and reconciliation to least-reached peoples around the world. Thank you for partnering with us to serve those who serve.

—by Laurie Drum, TMS Global’s director of training and formation