From Buddhist Monk to Church Planter

Dear Friend,

Kasun lives in a village in the southern part of Sri Lanka. After his time of discipleship training, there were 15 disciple-makers sent out to surrounding areas that were least reached with the Gospel – they went to share the Good News of Jesus and plant new fellowships.



Kasun was sent to a village that was 100% Buddhist. Since he had been a Karate instructor, he was conducting karate classes to connect with people. As Kasun taught karate, a group of Buddhist monks came to join in. Kasun noticed that Theo, one of the Buddhist monks he was training, was despondent. Kasun invited him to sit down and talk.



Theo asked, “Master, how can I overcome my social phobia?” Theo shared that he had tried everything— relying on his horoscope, treatment from a witch doctor, and now, seeking peace, he was addicted to marijuana.



Kasun shared his experience with Jesus. As Theo began to understand the Gospel, he accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. He began attending Christian worship services, still wearing his Buddhist monk’s robe! Theo knew it would disappoint his parents, but he decided to take off his robe, left the monastery and committed his whole life to Jesus. He was baptized and changed his name to Matthew.



Later Matthew joined the same Global Disciples training Kasun had taken and then returned to his own village to share the Gospel.

Today, Matthew works in a hotel, loves to share about Jesus, and takes care of the ministry in his village. Praise God for his transformation, as he serves the Lord with freedom, joy, and peace!

One trained leader. One karate class. One conversation. A church planter born.

Just like Kasun, you are best placed to reach your neighbour. Watch below as Andre shares more.

Belief plays a powerful role in our lives, acting as a guiding light when things get tough. When challenges arise, a deep-rooted faith can help us find strength and support.

We pray the blog below encourages you today.