A Journey of Faith: The Martins’ Ministry in Thailand

Our ministry in Thailand began in July of 2006, but its roots stretch back to 1948. That year, Dwight’s parents arrived in Thailand as the first Protestant missionaries in Nakorn Phanom province with the Christian & Missionary Alliance. Dwight was born during their service in this remote province on the Mekong River, fostering a deep connection with Thailand and its people. He holds dual Thai-US citizenship.

 After high school, Dwight moved to the US for college, where he married Mary Kay, started a business career, raised a family, and earned an MBA in Technology Management. He founded a successful software company but never forgot his roots in Thailand. Receiving a divine calling from God call, Dwight and Mary Kay returned to Thailand. His familiarity with the language and culture, along with Dwight’s ability to establish key relationships with leaders influenced by his parents allowed them to quickly integrate with the Thai Christian community. 

Thai church leaders recognized the value of their work experience and invited them to participate in various ministry projects, including maintaining church statistics in Thailand. This also expanded Mary Kay’s role to manage the office, serve as the ministry accountant and mentor young women. 

In 2016, Dwight faced an existential crisis after observing the stagnation of the Thai Church, led him to question the future of Christianity in Thailand. During this period, he found inspiration in Luke 4:43. Martin’s research revealed that 95% of Thai villages were untouched by the gospel, prompting him to seek organizations committed to spreading the gospel to every village. His path crossed with Pastor Somsak, a fellow visionary, and together they aimed for nationwide evangelism. 

That same year, Pastor Somsak envisioned expanding the Free in Jesus Christ Church Association (FJCCA) to establish 1,000 new churches and welcome 10,000 new believers by 2020. Inspired by this ambitious goal, Martin joined Somsak, and their partnership significantly enhanced the AFT’s mission to reach and grow its church community. After successfully completing the vision, the Association of Free Churches in Thailand asked Dwight to serve as their first president to continue spreading the Gospel throughout Thailand. 

The circle was complete: the “missionary kid” born in Thailand is managing the largest church association in Thailand, continuing the legacy his parents started. Dwight is ordained by the Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama. He and Mary Kay have two grown children who live and work in Minnesota.