11th Asian pacific C4I conference Laos – Thailand

At the border between Laos and Thailand, we encounter difficulties with our car. The registration appears incomplete, and the vehicle has to remain in Laos. But Angelo Calaunan, a Filipino Christian who has lived in Laos for over ten years, doesn’t see problems—only challenges. Thanks to his resourcefulness, we cross the border, and a tuk-tuk takes us to the Sisters of the Good Shepherd’s vocational center in Nong Khai.

Local transportation brings us to the site of the conference venue

There, we have our 11th Asia-Pacific C4I Conference, especially for Christians from Laos. Attendees also come from Thailand, the Philippines, and India. With a fresh Lao translation of the book Why Israel?, Rev. Willem Glashouwer begins three days of teaching on God’s purpose with Israel. As at many conferences, participants are familiar with Scripture—but it is as if certain verses reveal their deeper meaning for the first time.

Rev. Willem Glashouwer during one of his teachings

‘As at many conferences, participants are familiar with Scripture—but it is as if certain verses reveal their deeper meaning for the first time.’

Pastor Dr. Lumahan from the Philippines teaches from Romans 9–11, showing how God’s love for Israel remains active today—even from a New Testament perspective. Dr. Leon Meijer, the new Executive Director of Christians for Israel, presented an overview of history, including the creation of the State of Israel. He explained that antisemitism often follows a familiar pattern: demonization, delegitimization, and double standards.

Dr. Lumahan teaching on Romans 9-11 in Laos

The participants are deeply moved. Many say their understanding of God’s Word has been transformed. “You must come to my country,” one Indian attendee urges. “My church needs to hear this—not just for three days, but for a whole week!”

After the conference, we return to Laos, where our flight will depart. In Vientiane, the capital, a house church invites Dr. Leon Meijer to speak. And there, in the People’s Republic of Laos, believers gather to pray—for Israel, and for the peace of Jerusalem.

Leon Meijer (left) and Rev. Glashouwer (second left) with some of the participants and organizers in Laos