The establishment of Asia Gateway Training (AGT) in 2013 reflects a strategic response to the changing dynamics within the Asian Christian community. The recognition that the community was not only growing rapidly but also transitioning from being a recipient of missionaries to actively sending them to various parts of the world highlights a significant shift in the global Christian landscape.

The mention of short-term missions flourishing, particularly in the South East Asia region due to affordable travel and visa-free arrangements, underscores the enthusiasm within the community, especially among the younger generation, to engage in cross-cultural missions. This surge in interest and energy presented both an opportunity and a challenge that needed to be addressed.

The decision to establish AGT was motivated by the need to harness and channel this growing missionary zeal more effectively. The emphasis on training and equipping individuals for cross-cultural missions at a reasonable cost indicates a practical response to the demand for preparation in this field. The involvement of key entities such as the Methodist Church, Diocese of West Malaysia (Anglican), and established mission organizations like Overseas Missions Fellowship (OMF), Interserve, Asia CMS, and Malaysia Theological Seminary demonstrates a collaborative effort to address the evolving needs of the Asian Christian community.

AGT, by virtue of its founding, becomes a crucial player in providing the necessary training and resources to equip missionaries for the challenges of cross-cultural engagement. This initiative not only reflects a commitment to supporting the growing number of missionaries but also highlights the importance of adapting to the changing dynamics within the global Christian mission landscape. The collaborative nature of AGT’s founding also suggests recognition of the collective responsibility of denominations and mission entities in preparing and empowering individuals for effective cross-cultural ministry.

Training Programs:

1. Missional Leadership One-Month Residential Programme:
   • Format: Annual one-month residential program held at the STM campus.
   • Participants: Missionaries and those committed to cross-cultural ministry.
   • Modules:
     • Missional Hermeneutic of the Old and New Testament.
     • Gospel, Culture, and Integral Mission.
     • Gospel in Pluralistic Society.
     • Critical Issues in Asian Mission.
   • Experiential Learning: Visits to religious places, dialogue with religious leaders, and exposure to development initiatives for the marginalized.
   • Global Engagement: International team of facilitators, envisioning the program to be held outside Malaysia, exploring Nepal for 2024.
2. Master in Arts Intercultural Studies:
   • Format: Totally online program with 10 modules and a project/thesis component.
   • Subjects: Urban Mission, Human Rights and the Gospel, Ecotheology, Ecumenism, Jesus and the Margins, Missions Spirituality, and other relevant topics.
   • Cost: Highly subsidized at about US $1600.
   • Graduates: First batch in November 2023.
   • Flexibility: Open for enrollment throughout the year.

Fundraising and Contributions:

1. AGT is a non-profit entity focused on keeping costs low.
2. Staff receives an honorarium.
3. Fundraising for specific programs:
   1. Missional Leadership One Month Residential Program Nepal (November 2024):
      • Targeting about 30 participants.
      • Aim to raise about RM 50,000.
   2. Missional Leadership Training for Pastors in Sarawak, Borneo East Malaysia (June 2024):
      • Targeting pastors in the Diocese of Kuching.
      • Aim to raise about RM 5,000.
4. Contributions can be made to Seminari Theoloji Malaysia
   • A/C No : 3153725236 
   • Swift Code : PBBEMYKL

Contact and Further Information:

• Contributions and inquiries can be directed to Patrick at asiagatewaymissions@gmail.com.
• The AGT website (www.asiagatewaytraining.com) provides additional information and application details.

Vision and Commitment:

• AGT’s mission is to serve the community in Asia.
• Emphasis on affordable, quality training for cross-cultural missions.
• Rev. Dr. Joseph Deva Komar serves as the Executive Director of Asia Gateway Training.