Stepping Out in Faith: Pastor Yan’s Journey Among the Hmong People
by Lilian Yang
Pastor Yan was born in Myanmar and raised in a Christian family. He received God’s calling to pastoral ministry early in life and pursued theological education at Thailand Bethel Theological Institute. After completing four years of training, he married Ms. Sathita, and together they have three children.
Twenty-two years ago, Pastor Yan and his wife felt a strong calling to share the gospel with the Hmong,
Pastor Yan shared, “It was a decision that led us out of our comfort zone. I’m so thankful for my family for supporting me and walking with me into this uncertain future. But through it all, we have experienced joy and peace in following God’s guidance.”
Starting a new ministry was not easy. As Pastor Yan is not from the Hmong tribe, he faced many challenges—cultural differences, language barriers, and the struggle to adapt.
“When I first came here, I couldn’t speak Hmong. People were hesitant to befriend me. But I saw their struggles—poverty, lack of medical care, and children without access to education,” he recalled.
Moved by compassion and a burden to share the gospel, Pastor Yan began visiting families, caring for the sick, offering basic medical help, and teaching Chinese to the children. Slowly, the villagers began to trust him.
As relationships grew, so did the ministry. More and more villagers accepted Jesus. Together, they built a church, an elementary school, and a student center. After 22 years of faithful service, the villagers honoured Pastor Yan by giving him a Hmong name, Roos Yeej (means victory)—welcoming him as one of their own.
“I thank God for his calling and guidance. Today, I witness this beautiful story—hundreds of Hmong people worshipping God, children receiving education, and the poor and sick being cared for. I’m deeply grateful for the new name I received today, marking me as part of the tribe. I’m also thankful for all who have supported this ministry along the way. Your partnership and prayers have truly blessed us. The work among the Hmong is far from over. Together, we can continue to reach more people and serve in God’s harvest field. Glory to God!”
Pastor Yan is a valued partner of CBM’s children’s ministry. In 2009, he founded the Morning Light Center to support children from poor families and conflict-affected areas. Today, these children have access to a safe place, food, and education. Many of them have grown up to attend seminary and are now serving in ministry themselves.
Pastor Yan’s life of faithfulness has not only transformed a community—it has inspired a new generation to follow Christ and serve his people.
