Radio Broadcast – Shan Missions

Background History

5 million Shan live in the Shan States and other parts of Myanmar. Almost all Shan are Buddhist. About 0.2% are Christian according to a report in 1990. Most of the Shan have never heard the Gospel. There are several reasons for not being able to hear the Gospel.

Not enough preachers preaching gospel to the Shan.
Preachers are not eager to preach gospel to the Shan Buddhist.
Difficult access to the Shan living in remote high mountains.
Expensive traveling cost.
Shan Churches do not have priority in preaching to Shan Buddhists.

Romans 10:14 “How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?”

Radio Gospel Broadcasting in Shan language was first started by a missionary from Holland, Miss. Anna Capon, in 1987. It was broadcasting from Far East Broadcasting Company, Manila, Philippines every morning for 15 minutes. Because of lack of resources Miss. Anna Capon was not able to produce the program and had to stop broadcasting in 1989. I was then introduced to Mr. Frank Gray, the Executive Director of Far East Broadcasting Company (FEBC) by Miss. Anna Capon when I was attending World Evangelization Congress, Laussan II, in Manila in July 1989. Frank Gray asked me, “Can you produce Shan program for us?” Actually this is what I’ve been praying for ten years since I come to Hong Kong in 1979. I don’t have money to pay for airtime. Frank Gray said, ‘Don’t worry about money. God will provide. Please produce Shan program for us if you can.’ After returning from congress hall to hotel room in Manila, I was filled with joy. Mr. Robert Morse, a missionary to Lahu, Northern Thailand, who was my room-mate, and I were on our knees praying together and giving thanks to God for such a wonderful opportunity to preach gospel to Shan through radio. My prayer answered. It is worth of waiting for ten years.

Letter from Roy J.B. Alvarez, IODM, Far East Broadcasting Co.(Philippines) Inc., Manila, Philippines, to Dr. Sai Htwe Maung, Hong Kong.
25th August 1989
Dear Dr. Sai Htwe Maung,
Our General Program Director, Frank Gray, forwarded to me the proposals regarding the Shan broadcast reached in your conversation with him and Sis. Anna Capon during breaks at the Lausanne II Conference. We will carry on the present frequency of 11650 KHz. On October 16 we will start testing new frequency in the 19-meter band.
Thank you for your continuing interest in reaching the Shan people for the Lord.
Roy J. B. Alvarez.

Letter from Mr. Ronnie Tin Maung Htun, General Director, Myanmar Program, Rangoon, Burma, December 8, 1989, to Mr. Frank Gray,
General Program Director, Far East Broadcasting Company, Philippines.
My Dear Frank,
The test broadcast for the Shan program is coming in beautifully. We are receiving quite an encouraging report from the listeners. Please convey this news to Dr. Sai Htwe Maung.
Signed\ Ronnie (Tin Maung Tun)

Before I left Burma for Hong Kong on April 9, 1979, we had a special prayer meeting at our home. One of my nieces asked me, “Uncle Htwe, how will you help our Shan people if you go to Hong Kong?” I then said, “I don’t know. Maybe I’ll preach the gospel to our Shan people on the Radio.” At that time, there was no gospel preached on the radio in the Shan language. That was my wish and prayer. I kept on praying and asking God to allow me to reach my people from abroad with the gospel of Jesus. After ten years, God answered my prayer. I can now preach the gospel to millions of Shan people, not only in Burma but also in Thailand and Southwest China, through radio broadcasts. God has His own time. Ten years is not a waste. Praise God for my first Shan gospel song recorded in Burma in 1978. During the ten years between 1979 and 1989, I had the opportunity to write and record more Shan gospel songs and music in Shan at my home with my guitar and small portable keyboard without knowing that it would be of great use in my future radio programs. By the time I start doing a radio program in 1989, I realize that I have enough Shan gospel music and songs ready to be used. At that time, not a single gospel song in Shan had been produced by any Shan Church.

15 Minutes to 45 minutes daily

I started a daily 15-minute program on October 16, 1989. I started recording in my bedroom with a small portable cassette recorder. After doing it for three months, I felt that it was too short. I wanted to have 30 minutes. I asked Mr. Frank Gray. He graciously gave me 30 minutes every morning. After one year of daily 30 minutes, I wanted to have 45 minutes because I thought 45 minutes would be good enough for me to have music, preaching, replying to listeners’ questions, and playing special music at their request. Again, Frank Gray graciously gave me 45 minutes every morning. This Shan gospel radio broadcast is the first and only broadcast in the world, preaching the gospel in the Shan language.
I cannot afford to have a well-equipped recording studio. Even though I may have a free studio, in that situation, I may not have time to go to the studio every day to do recording because I am a full-time medical doctor working in a hospital. I can only do recording in my own available time, especially at night. I do my recording in my bedroom. I used to do recording at night after coming back from hospital work. My family members are very understanding and cooperative. They refrain from making a loud noise. Nevertheless, sometimes I can still hear my little girl’s voice in my recording. Since the room is not soundproof, it requires a special technique to reduce the volume control and speak closer to the microphone so that the external noise will not get into the microphone. Even though the room is not a soundproof studio, the quality of the sound is acceptable, as informed by FEBC. I do not have a recorder such as a professional open-reel recorder. But I do have a small Cassette Deck that I can play music and record. In the beginning, I only had two small cassette decks. One is for playing music or a song, and one is for recording. A mixer is necessary because it can allow you to mix your music and your voice. Background music is also important to keep the listeners from getting bored. Gospel songs, hymns, local pop songs, and traditional music are also used in the program. In the beginning, I used C60 (60 minutes) tape. Later, I use C90 when I start doing 45 45-minute program. I do not keep a master tape. I do not keep the copy. After recording and completing the tapes, I sent them to Manila by post in a package. I do not have a technician to help me out with controlling the recording amplifier, mixer, and recorder. I have to learn and manage by myself through experiencing the result. Listening to my program on the air in the morning is helpful for me to adjust, change, and improve the quality.
Time is the most important factor. Doing two jobs at the same time is not easy. I have to work in a hospital because it is my only source of income to feed and support my family and myself. Producing this radio program is a self-supporting ministry. I wish I could have forty-eight hours a day. If I work in a hospital at night, I do recording during the day. If I work in a hospital during the day, I do my recording at night. If I have missed one recording today, I have to do two recordings tomorrow. Public holiday is my greatest opportunity to do more recording from 8 AM to 12 midnight, no shopping. I sometimes skip my lunch because I am too absorbed in my work. Some listeners ask, “How many of you are doing this radio program?” My answer is, “Four.” “God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit, and I.” I believe knowledge, wisdom, authority, and power come from The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit.

Acts 1:8 “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

Programming

When I first start in October 1989 fifteen minutes seemed to be very long. It takes me about three hours to complete one 15 minutes program. After three months I have received letters from listeners asking for more time.
My daily program is as follows;
Monday to Saturday is a gospel program targeting non-believers.
Sunday is the Praise & Worship program and the Church service program for Christians. The program begins with gong-mong Shan traditional music and greetings, followed by local popular songs, scripture reading, gospel song, preaching gospel, gospel song, announcement, answer to listeners’ questions, music at the listener’s request, and ends with 45 45-minute program with benediction. The program is broadcasting from Far East Broadcasting Company, Manila, Philippines, at 19 meter band 15440 KHz from 6:30 AM to 7:15 AM Burma standard time in the common Shan language.

Chinese-Shan (DaiMao) Program

I visited China, Yunnan province, in 1997. I met Shan people who listened to my broadcast. My elder brother in MuSe said to me, “Many DaiMao (Chinese-Shan) are listening to your program. Why don’t you preach in DaiMao dialect? You are DaiMao, and your DaiMao dialect is perfect.” I came back to Hong Kong and asked Frank Gray if I could have a time slot for the DaiMao program. He graciously gave me 15 minutes extra every morning for the DaiMao (Chinese-Shan) program. Praise the Lord! Starting from December 1997, 15 minutes of DaiMao have been on the air. I have invited pastors and preachers from ShweLi Shan Baptist Mission as they are DaiMao to preach in DaiMao so that I can use it in our DaiMao program. But no one has taken this opportunity until today. In the common Shan language program, the late Rev. Sai Stephen had contributed fifty sermons for my radio program when he was attending a conference in Hong Kong in 1997. He was the only one who contributed some sermons.

Khamti Shan Program

Khamti Shan are another Tai group who speak a different dialect. A Khamti Shan pastor, Sao Noi Man Han, came to meet me in Yangon in the year 2000 when I was in Burma. He is one of the twenty believers among the Khamti Shan. He is the son of a Khamti chief. He is very concerned about his own people group. He wants to preach the gospel on the radio in his dialect. Starting from 2001, there has been a 15-minute Khamti Shan program every week on Sunday, replacing the DaiMao program on Sunday. There are about five hundred thousand Khamti Shan in Burma. Many Khamti Shan are in Assam, India.

Effectiveness

How can we assess the effectiveness of our Shan gospel radio broadcast? Some of the methods are assessing letters received from listeners, hearing testimonies from listeners, and meeting people who are listening to the program. Many Shan people from different parts of Burma, Northern Thailand, and Southwest China are listening. 90% of letters received from listeners are from Buddhist Monks asking many interesting questions such as “How can a dead wood give a green leave, how can all get clean if only one take bath, how can one hundred people get full if only one eat, how can we say God is loving and kind by allowing people to be poor, suffering and die,” etc. Some express their belief in Jesus Christ. Some accept Jesus Christ and are baptized, some are saved from committing murder, and some are released from addiction because of the message preached on the radio. Some people have their lives changed, and some people rededicate their lives to the Lord. Some gospel tracts and books are produced to give them to the listeners as a follow-up tool.

The first convert in 1998, Northern Thailand,
by listening to Shan Gospel Radio Broadcast

Testimonies from listeners

When we were conducting training in MayMyo in 1997, I met a man who wrote to me a year ago. He was from MuSe, Northern Shan State. He said, “Thanks for changing my life. I drifted away from the Church many years doing sinful things. I was not only selling liquor but also drinking when I heard your message on the radio. After hearing the message, my life has changed. I have now dedicated my life to God and serving as a full-time evangelist in a village. I am now pastoring a Church.”
A man from NamKham, Northern Shan State, said, “Thanks for saving me. One day in the early morning, I took a knife from my kitchen to go and kill a man who had cheated me of one million Kyat. But before I left home, I tuned in to your program. I heard your message, ‘Forgive your enemy and pray for them. God will take care of you.’ Then I dropped my knife. I abandoned my plan. Otherwise, I would have been in jail by now. Thanks for saving me.”
When I was in Northern Thailand in 2001, a man came to me and said, “After listening to the gospel message you preached on the radio for three years, I believed that Jesus Christ is the only Savior. I wanted to be baptized and become a Christian. But there was no Christian and no Church in this area. I started to look for a Church. Finally, I found a Lahu Church on the mountain. I went to that Church and told the pastor about my faith. And I got baptized in that Lahu Church.”
When we were on short-term mission trip to Northern Thailand with medical and dental team we met a blind woman. She was smiling so sweetly and dressed with a flower in her hair. When asked why did she seem to be very happy, she said, “Because of Christ.” How did you know Christ? “I have listened to gospel message from radio.”
I did not expect that Buddhist monks would listen to the gospel. But it is amazing. I have received many letters from Buddhist monks from different places all over Burma. Some have expressed their beliefs in Jesus Christ, some have expressed their interest and wish to know more, some have requested Bibles, and some have asked intellectual and theological questions. About four hundred letters were received in 1996. Most of the letters are from Burma, Shan State, and Central Myanmar, such as Bagu, Sagaing, Pyinmana, Mon State, Kachin State, Kayah State, Rakhine State, Chin State, Yangon Division, and some from Thailand. The questions in all letters are answered during the radio program to enable all listeners to hear and know the questions and answers. I have received a letter from a prisoner in Thailand saying that the message he had heard on the radio was a blessing for him, even though he was in prison for five years. He asked for a Bible so that he could read the words of God every day in prison. I have received a letter from a Buddhist monk from Burma saying that he never knew that someone died for the sins of the people. He wanted to follow Jesus so that he would be free. In 2001, I received a call from our evangelist telling me that Shan people in the Golden Triangle have been listening to the gospel on the radio for years. Now the son of the head of the village has accepted the Lord. They want me to go there and preach the gospel to them. (As I am writing this book, we have planted the first Shan Church in the Golden Triangle in 2002)
It was reported from Mission Network News, “Missionary radio broadcasters are seeing success in reaching out to Buddhist monks in China, Myanmar, and Thailand. Jim Bowman, president of Far East Broadcasting Company, told Mission Network News, the company’s Shan language broadcast resulted in more than 1,000 responses in 1997. There’s a lot of terminology in other religions than Christianity that sounds the same as Christianity,’ said Bowman. ‘For example, Buddhists are looking for salvation. And, when they hear we’re talking about salvation or when we use the term God, they have a concept of God, but it’s not the same as the God that stands outside and loves us.’ Bowman says the Shan broadcast has been on the air for some time. ‘People are attracted to it because it’s in their language and the broadcaster learns more and more about the skill of broadcasting,’ Bowman observed. He continued, ‘We’ve noticed… a remarkable change in the response in our listeners on almost all fronts. And I’d have to give the credit to the Holy Spirit.”
It was reported from Northern Thailand, “How did you come to put your trust in Christ?” I asked. “The Lisu people shared the Gospel with us, and when I heard the Shan FEBC radio broadcast, it confirmed what the Lisu had been sharing, and so I prayed to receive Christ.” Sai has been a believer for about five years; he has a passion for the Word of God and is now a leader in a Shan-Tai Church of about 50 Shan-Tai people. Isn’t it wonderful when Christian ministries complement each other and testify to the truth of the Gospel? To God be the Glory! Pray for the Shan FEBC radio broadcast, pray for freshness and creativity, and pray for it to be used to see many new Churches planted throughout the Shan State. Pray for people groups like the Lisu and the Kachin. Thank God that He has been using tribal Christians to bring the message of God’s love to the Shan-Tai people in some very remote places. Pray for God’s blessing to be upon the Lisu and Kachin, and pray that God would bring unity to their Churches. Pray for the fruit of outreach to the Shan. Pray that it would be a pure and holy offering to the Lord and that Shan-Tai Christians would be compelled by the love of Christ to reach their people.
The seeds have been sown for fifteen years through radio broadcast. Now is a time to reap. We need more workers for the harvest.

Selected Letters from Listeners

I am not a Shan. But I live in Shan State and understand Shan a bit. I listen to your program. I praise God and thank you for program because I have spiritual strength from you. In our village we have new Shan six families converted. They do not know Burmese. We want Shan Bible and Shan Hymns. Will you please help me and send some Bible and Hymn books.
( Christian lady from Lashio )

There are many people in our village who have never heard of the gospel of Jesus. Many people have not yet believed. They all are Shan people. They don’t know Burmese. I want to give them gospel tracts. Will you please send me gospel tracts in Shan language?
( Christian lady from Yat Zauk )

I have heard that if someone wants to become a Christian/they must stampede all the things he has believed in the past. Why?
What is the meaning of Eternal?
When someone has died, where does their spirit go and waiting for judgment day?
( Non-believer from Makkee village )

Please send me the picture of Jesus and two copies of the gospel of Jesus.
( Buddhist monk from Thanlin )

I have heard that this world has been in existence for billions of years. How come did you said that Jesus created this world. Hasn’t he come after this world?
( Non-Christian listener from Southern Shan State )

I came to know the Lord and accepted Him 8 years ago in Thailand. I am from Burma. All my family members are Buddhists. I tried to tell them the gospel, but they did not believe. Sometimes I was accused. Please send Shan Bible, Shan Hymnal, and Christian calendar.
( A Christian from Loikaw )

Is there any other God that is holier than Jesus? Is there any other God coming after Jesus?
( Buddhist monk from Pegu )

I am studying Buddhism. I want to know about Jesus. Please send me two books about Jesus. One for me and one for my friend.
( Buddhist monk from Pinlong )

I heard that you would send me a gospel tract about Jesus. Please send me two.
( Non-Christian listener from Pekong, Southern Shan State )

I now understand about creation. But where was Jesus’ parent before He created human being?
( Non-Christian listener from Southern Shan State )

Is it true that Jesus created every thing? You said that Jesus is merciful and just but why did he create unfairly. Some people are rich and some people are poor. If He is merciful why doesn’t He come to help the poor? I wish Jesus will solve the problem of rich and poor. Why didn’t He create the same nation? Now we have many different nations and different people.
( Buddhist monk from Loikaw, Kareni State )

I am learning about religion. If I ask you questions, will you reply? If so I will make contact with you regularly.
You said that Jesus is our saviour and has delivered us. Why can’t we see Him? Why doesn’t He show Himself up to us?
( Non-Christian listener from Zhipinsakan, Northern Shan State )

Thank you for praying for me in your Sunday program. After attending your GCI training last year, I have three families, new converts. Please continue praying for me.
( Evangelist from Nampong, Northern Shan State )

Because of your prayer, after attending your GCI training, I have witnessed to people. I received one family, the whole family, that accepted the Lord. I can not believe myself. I believe it is by the power of the Holy Spirit.
( A School Teacher from Namkham, Northern Shan State )

Is Jesus the only God?
I think we have two gods. One is Buddha, our Shan god, and Jesus, God of mercy.
Who is greater who? I believe in both Gods.
( Non-believer from Taunggyi )

What is the requirement to become a Christian?
What kind of observance and practice do Christian keep?
If you have book about Christianity please send me one.
( Buddhist monk from Mine Yae )

What are the differences between Buddha’s teaching and Jesus’ teaching?
I have heard from you in the radio and now I come to know that the love of Jesus is very great for us the human being.
( Buddhist monk from Lashio )

I love your program very much. I want to have all the messages you preached in the radio to be recorded in tape. I do not have cassette recorder to record your program. Can you produce your message in tape please.
( Buddhist monk from Rangoon )

I am very happy that I have accidentally tuned in your program in the morning. I pray that the gospel of Jesus will be preached all over the world. Many Shan people have not yet heard about Jesus at all. I pray that all our Shan people may come to know Jesus and believe in Him through your radio broadcast.
( A Shan young man from Northern Shan State )

I am listening to your radio broadcast every morning. My faith is growing stronger and stronger day by day as I am listening. Thank you very much. I hope that our young people will come to know the Lord more and more.
( A young Christian lady from Chin State )

I have received your Shan gospel tracts. The gospel of Jesus is very much different from Buddha’s teaching.
( A Buddhist monk from Rangoon )

I can not listen to your program for one month because I was travelling. After getting back to school I received your letter from my school teacher. I am extremely happy to see your letter and Shan gospel tracts. I can not read Shan well. However it has motivated me to learn Shan. Please send me more gospel tracts. Ninety percent of the people living in this town are Shan people. Only one family is Christian. I will give gospel tracts to them. Pray for me.
( A young Christian student)

I have never thought that you will write to me. I am extremely happy to see your letter and gospel tracts. I want to know more about “Eternal God”. Can I see Him? I am a poor guy. Can Jesus save me? Is it true that Jesus is always with me?
( A young non Christian )

I am your listener. I am happy to hear about the gospel. Can you put all your preaching in writing and publish a book so that I can read.
( A Buddhist monk from Karen State )

I have a problem. Your program come at the same time when BBC and VOA are broadcasting the News. I do not want to miss the News. I want to listen to your program as well. Can you repeat your program in the evening again please.
( A Christian from Northern Shan State )

Please send me anything to read about Jesus. I want to know more about Him.
( A non Christian listener )

In my village the electricity supply is always interrupted. I can not listen to your program every morning. Please send me two copies of the gospel tracts so that I can read when I can not listen.
( A Buddhist monk from Mandalay )

An officer of MT Army writes, I have received gospel tracts you sent to me. Thank you very much. I believe in Jesus now. I pray that all our Shan people will come to believe in Him. I am going to copy your gospel tract and send them to our people who are serving MT Army. ( MT Army is an Arm Forces of notorious Drug King, Khun Sa, who is producing Heroin and is under indictment of Unites States )

I want to know more about “Eternal God ” Is it true that God created all things? Why did He not allow Adam & Eve to eat the fruit of knowledge? I think it is not fair to punish them for eating the fruit. Please explain.
( A non believer )

I am writing to say thank you for your radio program. I am listening every morning. I am very glad to hear about Jesus. I am expecting to see your gospel tracts.
( A Buddhist monk )

Please send me Christian Bible. Also send me your photograph please. (A young non believer)
I enjoy very much listening to your program. Please tell me what should I do to receive Jesus Christ salvation?
( A young non believer lady )

I am Buddhist but I am listening to your program every morning. I am very much interested to know about Jesus. Please send me the book so that I can learn more about Him.
( Young non believer )

I am a new believer. I want to have a Shan Bible. Can you give me one?
( New believer )

I have received gospel tracts you sent to me. I hold up my hands on my head and pray to God that you and your work will be blessed abundantly.
( A Buddhist monk )

I have three radio. I tried all of them to get better reception. But there are interference in your broadcast. Please kindly do something as soon as possible.
( A Burmese government officer )

I am not a Shan but I understand Shan very well. I am listening to your program every morning. Please send me gospel tracts.
( Non Shan listener )

I am your listener. I listen to your program every morning. Even though I am not a Christian I respect you and your Christianity very much.
( A young non Christian lady )

I do not read or write Shan but I understand Shan. I want to know more about Christianity. Please send me the book to read in Burmese.
( A Burmese Buddhist monk )

I am writing to tell you that after listening to your gospel message I now believe Jesus.
( A Buddhist monk )

I am a Buddhist but I believe in all gods. I listen to your program every morning. Do you have Christian calendar? Please give me one.
( A non believer )

I live in a village. Most of the people here are not Christian. Please send me gospel tracts as many as possible. Do you have your messages recorded in tape? Where can I purchase them? ( A Christian )

We enjoy listening to your program very much. We think it is too short. Can you broadcast longer? Can you also broadcast in the evening again?
( A non believer )

Many people still do not know Jesus. I am telling them to listen to the radio. Please send me gospel tracts.
( A non believer )

I am a Buddhist monk. I want to know more about Jesus. Please send me book to read. How many Shan have accepted Jesus?
( A Buddhist monk )

I live near the border with China. Many Shan there have never heard about Jesus. Please send me gospel tracts so that I can distribute to them.
( A Christian listener )

It is a pity that I have been worshipping god that has no power or authority. In fact what I am worshipping is not god but only statute. I am happy to come to know eternal and almighty God. Send me book to read more.
( A non believer lady )
I have never heard that some one died for our sins. It is amazing to escape from hell through Jesus. Please keep on telling this to all our Shan people.
( Non believer )
I am the only Christian in this village. I felt very lonely before I listen to your program. Now I can worship our God together with you in your Sunday morning praise and worship program. ( A young Christian nurse )

I am writing this letter to you because I have found the true God, the God of mercy.
In the past I was a Buddhist. I was thinking the way to I get eternal life. I realise that Buddha is not God of mercy. He did not love us. He did not save us. He did not die for us. I have to go to heel because of my sins. He himself is not eternal. That is why from today I believe in Jesus. Please send me Bible and the picture of Jesus Christ.
( Young Shan lady )

If I want to be a Christian and practice Christianity where should I go? Please also send me the Bible.
( Young Buddhist monk )

If believers of Jesus die will they go to hell? Will they reincarnate again?
( Buddhist Young man )

I always listen to your program. Is Jesus Christ the same to the person called The Holiest Man in the book that I have read?
( Asked a young man )

If a believer of Jesus goes in the Buddhist temple and help sweeping the floor, is it a great sin?
( Asked young lady )

Is it true that if I want to be a Christian I have to take Baptism? How can I breathe in the water? Why some Buddhists believe Jesus and become Christians? Some people said that if you are evil possessed and believe Jesus evil Spirit will flee away. Is it true?
( Young lady )

May I write in Burmese because I can not write Shan although I speak Shan. I realise that Jesus Christ disappeared from the scene from the age of sixteen to thirty. Where did He go?
( Asked Buddhist monk )

I enjoy listening to your program every morning. I want to know more about Jesus. Please send me a Bible.
( A young man )

I have heard form radio that you will send us gospel tracts if we asked. How much will it cost if I want one?
( Asked young man )

How Jesus become God? What teaching he gives? From what did He create the world? Why did He die for us? Why do Christians play guitar and music in worshipping God? When will Jesus come back again?
( Asked young Buddhist man )

I live in a place very far from my home. But I am very comforted and happy to listen to your songs, music, teaching and gospel. ( Young lady )
I have a strange dream repeatedly that if I want to eat more I have to eat the seeds as well. What is the meaning of this dream? Can you interpret this for me please.
( A young man )

Where does Jesus come from?
( Buddhist monk )

You are Shan. Why do you worship other God? Why don’t you worship the same God?
What better advantage we have in worshipping Jesus? Is your God holier than our God?
( Asked Buddhist monk )

Is it true that God can do all things and create all things? Why the believers of Jesus are the highest number in the world? Please send me the picture of Jesus and the picture of your Church. Is eternal God and Jesus Christ the same person?
( Asked Buddhist monk )

I am very happy to listen to your program this morning. I will listen every morning to understand more about eternal God.
( Buddhist monk )

I am writing this letter because I want to know more about Jesus. Please send me the Bible. I support you preaching the gospel in radio.
( Buddhist monk )

I am writing this letter to ask for Bible. I am very happy to listen to your radio about Eternal God. ( Buddhist monk )

I have listened to your program on 2 Jan. You talked about Love that we must love the poor the sick and the needy. Give food to the hungry, water to the thirsty, clothe to the naked. It is very good.
( Buddhist monk )

How many people working in Shan radio program?
( Asked Young man )

Buddhism is 5000 years old. How old is Christianity? According to Buddha teaching the world will be cleaned by fire in the year 5000. Can Jesus prevent the fire for us? I want to read the Bible. Send me one.
( Buddhist monk )

Please send me Bible in both languages in Burmese and Shan.
( Buddhist monk )

I have been listening to your program for one month. It is very good. Can you extend your program to one hour?
( Buddhist monk )

I am a new believer. I want to know when Jesus will come back again. He is God, and how can He die? ( New Believer )
I am not a Christian. I have been studying religion for some time. I study Jesus. Very few Christians in my village. There is a Church. I have been misunderstood by some people. I am not discouraged. I want the Shan Bible. I want to study and share with others.
( Young lady )

Why do you believe in Christ? Do you have Nevada as Buddhism? You become Christian is it because of the pressure from some body or is it Christianity better than Buddhism? What are the differences between Buddhism and Christianity? When Christian worship God they play guitar and sing. Does it give them salvation?
( Buddhist monk )

Thank you for sending me gospel tracts. I want the Bible. Please send me one.
( Young Christian )

Please tell me about the creation of the world. Why human being has to grow old, sick and die?
( Buddhist monk )

I am very grateful to you. You are not only preaching the gospel but also maintaining our Shan culture and literature.
( Buddhist monk )

I now believe the Lord Jesus Christ. When will you come and call me? I and all my followers will follow Him. Come and call us as soon as possible.
Please tell me how can I become Christian. What should I do to be His follower?
( Buddhist monk )

I have just started to notice that there is a Shan Christian Broadcast. I started to listen to the broadcast on 13 June 1992. The broadcast is good and I can tune in clearly. There are quite a few Christians in our area. But I have noticed many people are listening. I am 19 year 19-year-old. I am doing a small trading business. I have a boyfriend. He is now in Mae Hong Son, Northern Thailand. I would like to send my best wishes to him through your Radio Special Request programme with a song called Song for the Brave Brother”
( Young lady )

I am a Shan. I come from Muse, Northern Shan State. I am now studying in Rangoon. I like your programme and the songs very much. But sometime it is difficult to tune in your programme. Please continue playing the song of Nang Kham Khin.
( Young lady )

I am always praying for you and your family. May God bless you. This is my second letter. I do not know whether my first letter has been lost. I have asked for a Shan Bible. I want the Shan Bible. I am now in Rangoon for four months. Please reply to my letter. I try my best to write down your letter from your Radio announcement.. I am afraid I might have got the wrong address. Please write to me and give me Christian teachings. I am expecting your letter every day.
( Young lady )

Please send me The Book of Salvation to me. I want to read more. And I also want to have your photograph if you can give me one.
( Young man )

I would like to ask you about the gospel tracks you have sent to me. It is very good, very beautiful, very modernised and attractive. Where did you print it? From Philippines? And another question is How many person are doing this broadcasting programme? As far as I have heard from the programme I know you and Nang Mayse Kyaw only. Are there any other people? Can you tell me their names in your programme?
( Young man )

I want to thank you for broadcasting about the Salvation in Jesus Christ. I am very happy. I wish you all the best and you can do a lot more in the future.
( Young man )

We have heard your broadcast at 19 metre band very clearly. We are very happy. If you have a book about Jesus Christ please send it to us. If you don’t have one it doesn’t matter.
( Young lady )

Carry on the good work. We are supporting you. We are telling the people to listen your programme.
( Young man )

I have a small radio. I have just accidentally tuned in your programme. I want to ask you how long have you been started this programme? How many people are working in this radio broadcast? Are they all native Shan? Or Shan from other country? Do you have Shan Bible? If so please send one for me.
( Young man )

I have started to listen to your programme sine May 1990. I am very glad to listen to your programme every morning. If possible please also broadcast in the Evening. Also broadcast your announcement in Burmese.
( Buddhist Monk )
Do I have the opportunity to ask some questions about Knowledge, about Salvation ? Can I request a special music for my friend? I have sent my letters to you for special music request. But I have not heard my request yet. Do I need to give offering in order to have my request accepted?
( Shan Army General )

Our family are listening to your programme every morning. We like the songs and sermons very much. Can you send your sermons to us on tape? Or on papers.
( Young lady )

Thank you very much for the gospel tracks that you have sent to me. If you have other gospel tracks, please do send them to me.
( Young man from the Buddhism Promoting Organisation )

I want to ask you where and when was Jesus born? Do you have a book about Jesus? I want to read about him. Please send me one. I will always be in touch with you.
( Young man )

I am your listener. Can you extend your time for one hour every morning please.
( Young lady )

Please send me a book about Christianity. I am expecting your reply.
Sai Win Shwe Northern Shan State Burma
( No Christian )

I want to know more about Christ’s
teaching. Please tell me more.
( Non believer )

I am graduated from Rangoon seminary in 1951. I am serving the lord until today. I am listening to your programme every morning. I don’t know Shan very well. But it helps me a lot. May our God bless your Radio programme.
( Pastor )

Your forty five minutes programme is very short. I would like to request you to broadcast twice a day. I am a Christian. But my family are not. I need your help. Please send me Christian Booklets.
( Christian )

I am your regular listener. I am very happy to listen to the gospel. In order that the Lord will forgive our sins, how can I pray? Please tell me.
( Young lady )

I believe that you are getting more and more letters from listeners now. Do not disappointed. We are supporting you.
( Young man )
Peace be with you when you receive this letter. I have heard about Salvation in your radio broadcast. I am now understand and believe the good news of Salvation.
( Buddhist Monk )

I am a Shan but I can not write Shan. That is why I am writing to you in Burmese. I am listening to your programme every morning. I am a nurse. I work in a small village. There is no Christian in this village. That is why I have to listen to your programme and get inspiration. I can worship the Lord together with you every Sunday morning.. Praise the Lord!
( Young lady )

I am listening to your programme every morning. I am a third year seminary student. I will graduate next year. I want a Shan Bible and Shan gospel songs because I will go back to our Shan people. Please help me. I shall not go back unless I have got Shan Bible and Shan song book.
( Seminary Student )

I heard you preached about the resurrection of Jesus. I want to ask you a question. Please give me the answer.
I have a log in the courtyard of my monastery. It is dead and dried up. I pour water on it every day. But it is not revived. It does not show signs of life. It does not give leaves or branches. Why? ( Asked Buddhist Monk )

I heard you preached that the death of Jesus is for the forgiveness of all. May I ask you a question. There are one hundred people. They have nothing to eat. If only one man eat how can all get full? If only one man take shower how can all get clean?
( Asked Buddhist Monk)

You said that the disciples of Jesus saw Him after resurrection. Is it His ghost?
( Asked Buddhist Monk )

I have heard the good news of Jesus in the radio and I am very much touched by your message. I want to know more about Jesus. Please send me the Bible. ( A Buddhist monk from Mon State )

To.
Shan Radio Broadcast

I have just started to notice that there is a Shan Christian Broadcast . I started to listen to the broadcast since 13 June 1992. The broadcast is good and I can tune in clearly. There are quite a few Christian in our area. But I have noticed many people are listening. I am 19 year old. I am doing small trading business. I have a boy friend. He is now in Maehongson, Northern Thailand. I would like to send my best wishes to him through your Radio Special Request programme with a song called Ä song for the brave brother “

Nang Kham Ting
Eastern Shan State
Burma

To.
Shan Radio Broadcast

Nang Kham Ying
Rangoon
Burma

To.
Dear Dr Sai Htwe Maung

I am always praying for you and your family. May God bless you.
This is my second letter. I do not know whether my first letter has got lost. I have asked for a Shan Bible. I want Shan Bible. I am now in Rangoon for four months. Please reply my letter. I try my best to write down your letter from your Radio announcement.. I am afraid I might have got the wrong address. Please write to me and give me Christian teachings. I am expecting your letter every day.

Lao Lun
Rangoon
Burma

To.
Shan Christian Broadcast

Please send me The Book of Salvation to me. I want to read more. And I also want to have your photograph if you can give me one.

Sai Htun Kyi
Northern Shan State
Burma

To.
Dr Sai Htwe Maung

I would like to ask you about the gospel tracks you have sent to me.
It is very good, very beautiful, very modernised and attractive. Where did you print it? From Philippines? And another question is How many person are doing this broadcasting programme? As far as I have heard from the programme I know you and Nang Mayse Kyaw only. Are there any other people? Can you tell me their names in your programme?

No name given but signature only
Burma

To.
Shan Christian Radio Broadcast

I want to thank you for broadcasting about the Salvation in Jesus Christ. I am very happy. I wish you all the best and you can do a lot more in the future.

Sai Htun Win
Northern Shan State
Burma

To.
Shan Christian Radio Broadcast

We have heard your broadcast at 19 meter band very clearly. We are very happy. If you have a book about Jesus Christ please send it to us. If you don’t have one it doesn’t matter.

Nang Saing Moon
Northern Shan State
Burma

To.
Shan Christian Radio Broadcast

Carry on the good work. We are supporting you. We are telling the people to listen your programme.

Sau Htun Kyi
Northern Shan State
Burma

To.
Shan Christian Radio Broadcast

Sai Kya Aye
Northern Shan State
Burma

To.
Shan Christian Radio Broadcast

Buddhist Monk
Mandalay
Burma

To.
Shan Christian Radio Broadcast

Do I have the opportunity to ask some questions about Knowledge, about Salvation ?
Can I request a special music for my friend? I have sent my letters to you for special music request. But I have not heard my request yet. Do I need to give offering in order to have my request accepted?

Shan Army General ( Underground Arm Forces Against Burmese Government )

To.
Shan Christian Radio Broadcast

Our family are listening to your programme every morning. We like the songs and sermons very much. Can you send your sermons to us on tape? Or on papers.

Nang Ngwe Oo
Northern Shan State
Burma

To.
Shan Christian Radio Broadcast

Thank you very much for the gospel tracks that you have sent to me. If you have other gospel tracks please do send to me.

Sai Huk Koe
Buddhism Promoting Organisation
Mandalay
Burma

To.
Shan Christian Radio Broadcast

I want to ask you where and when was Jesus born? Do you have a book about Jesus? I want to read about him. Please send me one. I will always be in touch with you.

Sai Kyaw Win
Northern Shan State
Burma