Language Students (full-time or part-time)

Job Description

There are a greater number of students, from the region we are working in, who are going onto do further studies. During their studies (which is often away from their home) they are open to build relationships with outsiders and to consider new ideas. Most students from our focus group have never met a follower of Jesus and they are interested when they meet such people. Many opportunities arise to break down barriers and to share with students as one build relationships and speads time together with students. 

We are happy to facilitate new arrivals to Southern Thailand wishing to relocate as full-time or part-time students. They are able to study various languages or study other subjects within the international program. Although not a cheap option, Thai universities and private langauge centres are able to offer visas for full-time or part-time students.

You will contribute to the vision and mission of the team by living and working incarnationally among students from our focus people. With this foundation you will be involved in sharing the good news of life in Jesus, making disciples and praying in order to kindle movements of Jesus-followers among our people.

The region is known for its plurality with multiple ethnic groups, cultures, religions and languages co-existing in the region. There is also a significant Muslim population which distinguishes this area from other regions of the country. 

Responsibilities

With each placement language and culture learning is of great importance as language is a priority and need for our work. New workers would initially engage in full time language studies for up to 1 year (3-12 months) depending on length of placement. This would be followed by part time language study while being involved in various work roles in the second year. We want our workers to be skilled in the language and culture of the people before beginning full-time roles. 

This would obviously be different for Serve Asia (SA) and mid term placements, with a SA worker one would study language throughout their placement. Mid term workers would follow a similar pattern to long term workers, but this would tailored to the nature and length of their placement.

Qualifications

Most importantly come willing to learn from others, able to adapt to a new culture and be flexible and have a servant heart.

Living Situations

The applicant should be prepared to live an appropriate lifestyle within the community in which they will live. Among other things, this relates to dressing modestly, and being sensitive to the dietary restrictions of our neighbors, is very helpful as this would build bridges with your neighbours and friends. It also means contextualizing the language we use to share about Jesus. In the local culture it is important that the men relate to the men and the women relate to the women. 

1. Committed to direct ministry among our focus people.

2. Able to maintain good spiritual health, even in the face of practical and spiritual challenges.

3. Willing to work together on diverse team of people from different cultures with mutual accountability, but also self-reliance.