Nepal 2025

Too many stories of God's grace, provision and power were brought home from Nepal this year to share. Maybe a highlight reel is the best approach?

The eight YD interns sat with Nepal’s seasoned pastors and church planters, beginning with humility—listening first and admitting that we couldn’t fully understand the weight of their daily challenges. We invited them to share their stories. They spoke of real, ongoing persecution: organised opposition, beatings, humiliation, even murder. Yet in their courage, we found comfort. Though our struggles differ, we are not alone. God drew near to us in Jesus—entering our humanity, suffering with us, and promising His presence in every painful step. The interns also shared and taught how YD has equipped them to tell their own stories in a way that points to the gospel and the faithful work of Christ.

We arrived at the girls’ orphanage on a quiet Saturday—Nepal’s holiday—when most girls usually travel home to see a parent, an uncle, or whoever can welcome them. Those who remained with us were the ones for whom home was no longer safe. Being with them made our time feel both tender and sacred.We shared with the girls that they are deeply loved by God, made in His image, and that their worth is unshakeable—no circumstance can take it away. We took Polaroid photos of each girl and told them to keep them as a reminder: when they look at that picture, they’re seeing someone precious to God. Then came the fun, mostly.  We took the girls shopping for a beautiful dress or a special item of clothing, dancing, laughing, and letting joy have the loudest voice. The only interruption was a stark reminder of the reality of the painful context for these girls. Baden asked one why she was always smiling.  She said, “to block out the pain.” Heartbreaking!

Visiting the Musahar people near the Indian border allowed us to remind them that they have intrinsic value. The Musahar are considered the 'untouchables' in Nepal, pollutants, unclean, and to be shunned, while a caste system defines them as untouchables… not by us, and the one who created us all in His image. It was an honour to share a meal, a laugh, a hug and a message of love and respect. Finally, thank you to those who encouraged us during our travels. People like Rohan Thomas, who responded to a Facebook post while with the Musahar, "In the words of someone I know, 'there are no words'…. How can people see others that way? If you showed me a photo of those people without any caption or comment, I would have no idea. You're doing an awesome job! I hope the trip is going really well." Your words gave us a deep sense of doing God's work, mate!

It's worth noting that applications for next year's internship are now open. If participating in a vertical learning curve where your head, heart and hands are impacted and trained for growing God's kingdom interests you, apply below or ring the YD office and have a chat :-)

Scroll through the pictures below from Nepal. The newsletter then concludes with an overview of our upcoming Blue Moose ministry and some prayer points.