Strategic Global Missions — Educational Resource
A nation of extraordinary diversity, deep faith, and enduring courage—living through one of Southeast Asia's most serious humanitarian crises.
Myanmar—also known as Burma—is bordered by China, India, Bangladesh, Thailand, and Laos. The country is home to more than 135 officially recognized ethnic groups and dozens of languages. Its people share a deep regard for family, education, hospitality, and community, even as their histories and traditions differ widely.
Myanmar has also spent much of the past six decades under military rule. Long-running ethnic conflicts have displaced generations of families, Christians have worshipped under pressure, and the military coup of February 1, 2021, deepened what has become one of Southeast Asia's most severe humanitarian crises.
Our partnership with Burmese Christian leaders began in 2005. This resource is not intended to reveal current ministry operations. It exists to offer historical context, honor the dignity of Myanmar's people, and explain why the faithful presence of local churches matters.
After the Indian Ocean tsunami of December 2004, our founder traveled to Thailand with a relief team while serving as Missions Director at First Methodist Houston. During that 2005 trip, she met Burmese Christian leaders who were already caring for displaced families with courage, wisdom, and faith.
Those relationships laid the foundation for a partnership that has continued for more than twenty years. When Strategic Global Missions was founded in 2011, the long-established relationships became part of the organization's ongoing work.
We came alongside what God was already doing.
That partnership, rooted in a shared commitment to the most vulnerable, has continued ever since. We have never led from the outside. We have followed the lead of those who were already there.
The indigenous Christian leaders we partner with in Myanmar are well-educated, deeply rooted in their communities, and fully capable of leading. They do not need outsiders to do the work for them. They need faithful partners who will stand beside them and provide the support that helps the work continue.
"They are kind and beautiful people who have been oppressed and systematically overlooked for decades. The world has not paid enough attention. We believe that is changing."— Kristen Jones, President, Strategic Global Missions
Depending on why you're here, one of these paths is a good place to start.
Myanmar's people do not need pity. They need partners. The indigenous Christian leaders working in Myanmar are faithful, capable, and determined. Your prayers stand with them.
How to Pray for Myanmar Partner With SGM