“Seeds in the Snow

When we first arrived in Mongolia, we came with hopeful hearts—and a lot of unknowns. Christianity here is a minority, and as Filipino missionaries, we quickly realized this wouldn’t be easy.

The biggest challenge hit us right away: language. We tried to learn, sounding out letters and forming words, but real conversations felt out of reach. It was humbling. And in that struggle, I learned something I didn’t expect—mission isn’t always about what you say. Sometimes, it’s about how you live.

Then came winter. Not the “cold” we knew back home, but a kind that keeps you indoors and slows everything down. For a while, it felt like our mission field had shrunk to four walls. But even there, God reminded me that ministry isn’t limited by space or season. If anything, it becomes more intentional.

We were assigned to the Ulaanbaatar International SDA Church in Yarmag, a small but growing community. Many members were new in their faith, and they needed patience, consistency, and encouragement. That’s where I started to understand—discipleship isn’t flashy. It’s showing up, again and again, even when growth feels slow.

We started simple. Choir lessons after church. I’m not a professional singer, just someone who once joined a choir in college. But it didn’t matter. Music became a bridge. It opened conversations and built trust. That’s when it clicked—God can use whatever you’re willing to offer, even if it feels basic.

Outside the church, we visited members in their homes. In their culture, guests are served. But we chose to serve instead—helping with chores, caring for children, just being present. At first, it surprised them. But over time, I saw how small acts of love can speak louder than any sermon.

When spring came, so did new opportunities. We joined gardening at the Gateway Campus, learning from our CEO, Joanne Kim. I had zero experience, but the lesson was clear—"mission is like planting. You don’t force growth. You nurture, then trust God to do the rest”.

We also started English classes. I’m actually a civil engineer, not a teacher. I only had a few students, but each one mattered. I taught basic grammar, and instead of using ordinary reading materials, I used Bible stories. They came to learn English, but they were also meeting Jesus. That’s when I realized—God doesn’t call the qualified; He qualifies the willing.

There were moments I questioned if anything we did mattered. Results weren’t always visible. But I learned that faith means trusting even when you don’t see progress. Seeds take time.

As I reflected on our journey, one lesson stays with me: you don’t have to be perfect, just available. Mission isn’t about going far—it’s about being faithful where you are. Because in God’s hands, even the smallest offering can change a life.

Name: Nicah Thea D. Bajenting I 65^th  Batch 1000MM

Mission Field:  Ulaanbaatar International SDA Church, Yarmag.,Mongolia