Community change, affecting the real lives of people, is among some of the best work the church can achieve. In Thailand, the Church of Christ in Thailand (CCT), through its Social Development & Service Unit (SDSU), is dedicated to assisting in solving problems through holistic development and to help the church be an agent of change.
The overall goal of this work is to equip and empower communities to develop their potential for self-development. This happens through leadership development with training and engagement in community development; agricultural development that enhances sustainable income generation; holistic health promotion; and gender justice, child protection and elder care. Elder care, in particular, brings a special connecting point for the community.
And it is here that the real outcome of this work can best be observed, with the smiles of people. There are the smiles and happiness seen in the elderly, which serve as a powerful testament to what they yearn for most: the feeling of being valued and not left behind. These come as the result of elderly home visits and community gatherings. Many participants are reunited with long-lost friends, leading to a community-wide calling for these joyful spaces to return.
This spark of happiness has led to sustainable change within the churches. Today, many have established volunteer teams to provide close care and love to the elderly. Furthermore, these actions have gained recognition from the government. Local Social Welfare Departments are now integrating their work with churches to extend these community activities year-round—ranging from therapeutic foot soaks to preserving local wisdom.
Your support for ELCA World Hunger is more than just a one-time event. It is a “Seed of Hope.” It has grown into a strong collaboration between the church, the community, and the government to sustainably care for the hearts of the elderly.
Lahu Villagers at Elderly Home Visits & Community Gathering
Chiang Mai, Thailand
