Bob and Karin Thorne

Since January of 2009, we have been living in Penang, Malaysia and seeking to live out the call of God on our lives to love Him and make disciples.

We were married in 1986 and were involved in youth ministry for 18 years before planting North Point Community Church in NW Calgary in 2003. A stirring in Bob’s heart beginning in 2007 ultimately led us to move to Penang where we pastor the Penang International Church.

Bob’s solid Christian family background is a true blessing. After growing up in Calgary he attended Briercrest Bible College in preparation for ministry. I (Karin) grew up in a loving home as well and encountered Christ in a personal way for the first time through a summer camp ministry in Manitoba. My years at Briercrest served to give me a solid Biblical foundation and it was also there that Bob and I met.

We have three children – Sarah, Rachel and Josh. Sarah is married to Chris and lives in Calgary with their sweet daughter, Riley Grace. Rachel recently graduated from Dalat International School in Penang and attends Rocky Mountain College starting September 2011 for the Global Studies program. Josh has two more years of high school to complete at Dalat. As it is for all families who live and minister internationally, the separation from our children who live in Canada is very difficult and we find ourselves so thankful for Skype!

Ministering in an International Church is so unique and challenging, yet the joys are abundant as well. We encounter many people who, because of job transfers, find themselves living in Penang and we find that they are often more open to spiritual matters because of the uncertainty and change in their lives. Differing cultures, traditions, theologies and practices can create rich and eye-opening interactions with many people. With the transitory nature of life here, our church family is constantly changing and this in itself brings particular challenges. In so many ways, we are grateful for all that God continues to do in us, and by His grace, through us, as we seek to serve Him here in Penang.

We’re so grateful for all who love and support us – if you are interested in receiving short weekly prayer updates please e-mail us at 4thornesinmalaysia@gmail.com.