New Cultures, New Challenges, New Joys: Meet Our Newest Missionaries
Serving as a missionary is a profound privilege — filled with the joy of new friendships, cultural discovery, and sharing the hope of Christ. But it also comes with real challenges: language barriers, homesickness, and the emotional weight of starting fresh in a new place. We asked three of our newest missionaries — Micah Smith (Thailand), Anna Thormodsgard (Ethiopia), and Joy Reks (Uruguay) — to share a glimpse into their first few weeks on the field and how you can support them during this crucial season.
Micah arrived in Chiang Mai on October 8 and is already diving into ministry. “The Thai people are incredibly friendly,” he shares. “They’re always happy to include me in whatever they’re doing.” He’s especially enjoying collaborating with Thai Christians to create spaces where youth can encounter Jesus.
Adjusting to the tropical climate and navigating transportation during heavy rains has been a challenge — especially since he drives a Modo, which isn’t ideal in a downpour. Language learning has also proven more difficult than expected. “It takes a lot of time and dedication,” he admits.
Micah says the best way to support him is simple: “A quick reply to my updates or a text means a lot. It reminds me I haven’t been forgotten back home. And of course, prayer!”
Since arriving in August, Anna has embraced the rhythms of Ethiopian life — especially her usual 40-minute walk home from language school. “It’s my language route,” she says. “I stop to drink coffee, play games, chat with shop owners, and practice Amharic. It’s a fun way to connect with the community.”
But the transition hasn’t been without difficulty. Illness, cultural fatigue, and the mental toll of constant adaptation have been real. “I didn’t expect to be this exhausted every day,” she says. “But I’ve never been more aware of God’s grace and provision.”
Anna loves receiving photos from friends back home. “They’re a quick way to say, ‘I’m thinking of you.’ And I always need prayer.”
Joy joined the Globalscope campus ministry team in Montevideo in early September. “From day one, the team has been incredible,” she says. “There’s something special happening here — students are curious about faith, and I’ve had so many meaningful conversations already.”
Despite having interned in Uruguay before, this time felt different. “I didn’t expect to need so much help with everyday things — like finding an apartment or buying a lamp,” she laughs. “And ordering a kilo of ground beef in Spanish? Not as easy as it sounds!”
Joy has also fallen in love with Uruguayan culture — especially its music. “Candombe festivals fill the streets with rhythm and joy. It’s impossible not to smile and join in.”
She says the best support is engagement. “When people interact with my updates, it reminds me I’m not alone. And prayer — always prayer.”
Thank you for being part of something so much bigger than yourself — God’s global mission. Your support makes these ministries possible.
