We just received news on Saturday of an unimaginable tragedy—Micah, a seventh-grade student she works with one on one—was at a beach town in southern Thailand with his father for a conference. While playing and building in the sand, Micah was buried when the sand collapsed, and tragically, he passed away. We are still awaiting details on a memorial service. This loss has been devastating for the family, and for Faith, who worked closely with him for this school year.
At the same time, the primary family she works with has also had a lot of struggles during Faith’s time here, and while it’s been rewarding, I know that has also taken a toll on her. She loves them greatly, and is now in her second year working with them.
The combination of these situations is more than she can be expected to bear without being greatly affected herself. To help her process this grief and trauma, Ruth and I are reaching out to The Well International, a Christian counseling center here in Chiang Mai that specializes in supporting cross-cultural workers. We plan to cover the costs for her to receive professional grief/trauma counseling, as she doesn’t have the personal resources for this right now.
If the Lord lays it on your heart to help us with these counseling expenses, we would be deeply grateful. Donations can be earmarked for this purpose through our mission board, the Central Missionary Clearinghouse (please note “For Faith’s Counseling” or contact us for specifics), or by sending a check directly to Ruth’s brother, Mark Pavkov.
Above all, please join us in praying:
• For Faith, that she would experience God’s deep comfort, peace, and healing in the midst of these traumas (2 Cor. 1:3-4).
• For both families—peace, strength, and the Lord’s presence as they grieve and navigate life.
• For Ruth and I, that we would be sensitive and supportive in caring for everyone involved.
Thank you for your faithful partnership in prayer and support. It means more than we can express, especially in seasons like this.
In His grace,
-Lance, for the Baker family