Stepping outside your comfort zone can be terrifying, but it is often where life's most transformative journeys begin. When Josh, an English volunteer, arrived in Thailand to support the Marist Asia Foundation, he was met with a daunting task: helping 70 Burmese refugee children learn English through a steep language barrier. The experience was filled with challenges, from navigating cultural differences to learning "never to leave food exposed in the house overnight" after an intense battle with ants. Yet, the initial fears quickly gave way to profound connections. Supported by a deeply welcoming community of Marist Fathers and RNDM Sisters, Josh adapted, discovering how resourcefulness and communal support can overcome any hurdle.
The true heart of his experience, however, lay within the classroom. While the language barriers and occasional misbehaviour tested his patience, the rewards far outweighed the struggles. As Josh reflected, "Listening to their English improve over the course of the year was a reward in itself, and I quickly became quite attached to them." Leaving Ranong, he noted a deep sense of personal and spiritual growth, concluding that "more Christians could benefit from leaving the comforts of their home for a while to follow God into the unknown."
To read the full story, head to the Marist Asia Foundation's website.
Are you, like Josh, ready to step into the unknown and make a tangible difference in the lives of others? Dedicated and passionate volunteers are welcome to join our global missions in Ranong (Thailand), Sahagún (Spain), London (England) and other Marist projects across Europe and the world. Your time will leave a lasting impact on both your life and the communities you serve. Join us, embrace the local culture, and discover the immense grace that comes from service. Learn more here.
