In a remote village near the Thai border, Mr Chay Ly* spent most of his life as a respected spiritual leader among the Hmong people. As a shaman, he was called upon whenever illness struck, conflicts arose, or families sought guidance from the spirits believed to govern daily life. His role brought honour and security — and leaving it would come at great personal cost.
Yet God was already at work in his family.
Mr Chay Ly’s daughter, Dzia Ly*, first heard the gospel through FEBC’s Hmong-language radio broadcasts. As she listened, she came to faith in Jesus. When she later left home to study the Bible, her decision shocked her family, and her father cut off contact with her. Local authorities later pressured her to renounce her faith, but she refused and endured harsh treatment because of her belief in Christ.
Through it all, Dzia continued praying for her family.
Over time, her prayers were answered. First her mother came to faith, then one of her brothers. Finally, in 2025 — eleven years after Dzia first began praying — the unexpected happened. Mr Chay Ly himself chose to follow Jesus and was baptised just two days later.
His decision stunned the community. Many urged him to return to his role as shaman, fearing others would follow his example. But Mr Chay Ly stood firm.
The man who once sought to appease spirits now rests in the peace of knowing Christ.
Through FEBC’s broadcasts, people like Mr Chay Ly hear God’s Word in their heart language — often in places where the gospel cannot be shared openly. Even under pressure, lives continue to be transformed as listeners discover hope that cannot be silenced.
Because Jesus lives, hope endures.
*Name changed for safety reasons