Since 2012
Bhutan, a Buddhist stronghold where the state religion is a form of Buddhism heavily influenced by animistic spirit worship, is one of the world’s least evangelized nations. Bhutan is essentially closed to outside influence and any attempt to convert people from the state religion is illegal. The Bhutanese constitution officially allows for religious freedom, but people who embrace Christianity and publicly practice their faith risk losing the basic benefits of citizenship and often face discrimination.
In June 2012 The Tide® began broadcasting a weekly radio program into Bhutan in the Dzongkha language, the official language of Bhutan. This radio program is titled “Lamtheam” (Show the True Way), and the radio pastor is a Bhutanese Christian with 17 years of ministry experience. As a native of Bhutan, he can travel freely throughout Bhutan to encourage people who listen to The Tide Dzongkha language radio program and to meet with listeners in this country where it is difficult for foreigners to gain access. Having someone who can discreetly move about in Bhutan is vital as Christians there face discrimination and persecution, and listeners are hesitant to enter into written correspondence because they fear that their mail will be screened by government agents looking for indications of religious or spiritual influence.
News from
Bhutan
Buddhists Encountering Jesus in Dreams
This summer we wrote about an amazing phenomenon where many Muslims around the world are encountering the Lord in dreams and coming to faith. But did you know that the Lord is also revealing Himself to Buddhists?
Traditional Versus Modern in Bhutan
Traditional is an apt description for Bhutan, and this is something that its people take pride in. Thimbu, the capital of Bhutan, does not have any traffic lights, and very few international corporate chains. Television and the Internet were not introduced until 1999. Agriculture, livestock, and forestry dominate the economy, and its colorful culture and traditions passed down the centuries remain prominent today.
Buddhism – The Final Frontier?
The Tide has gospel media outreach ministries in Thailand and Bhutan, broadcasting the Good News into heartlands of two of the main schools of Buddhism, Theravada and Vajrayana (Tibetan).
Remembering Dr. Bijoy Roul
On July 12, Rev. Dr. Bijoy Roul passed into glory after a brief hospitalization. He joins his late wife and partner in ministry, Manjula, who passed in 2019. Bijoy ran a marathon of a race and finished well.