Frequently Asked Questions
Is ASAP a sending organization for missionaries from the United States?
No. ASAP organizes short-term mission trips to Southeast Asia to conduct evangelistic meetings, help with training or with special projects, but does not send out missionaries on a long-term basis. Instead, ASAP supports the training and provides stipends for national missionaries. We use this method for two reasons: they have proven extremely effective because of their knowledge of the language and culture, and because it is the most cost-effective method for spreading the gospel. While recognizing the unique contributions of Western missionaries, Adventist Southeast Asia Projects is pleased to support the work of nationals in reached areas where an Adventist presence already exists and to the unreached areas.
What is ASAP's ongoing greatest need?
Support of the national missionaries, especially lay-pastors and church planters. ASAP gives stipends and support to over 600 dedicated laborers in Southeast Asia. This is a big commitment and a significant part of the ASAP budget goes towards this. If in doubt, give to the ASAP national missionaries. Besides lay pastors and church planters, ASAP supports youth evangelists, medical missionaries and literacy teachers. They win thousands to Christ each year.
Does all the designated money donated go to projects?
Yes! 100% of all money that is designated for projects will be sent for those projects on a quarterly basis. Money that is earmarked for “greatest need” is used for the evangelism projects in areas where donations do not meet the budget and also for ASAP operations.
How many people are being paid on your staff?
ASAP is a small ministry based team consisting of five full time workers and several part-time workers. The Director, Associate Director, Communication Director, Office Manager and Data Entry Manager are full-time workers. The Treasurer and other assistants work part-time.
How often does the ASAP board of directors meet?
Once a year in October. The executive committee, which is a small contingency of the board, meets on a monthly basis.
Why does ASAP only help those in Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam and Myanmar?
Quality Versus Quantity. Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam and Myanmar were under the oppression of communist governments or oppressive military governments for many years. Laos and Vietnam are still governed by communist leaders while Myanmar remains under an oppressive military government. Since the communist governments and military governments repress religion, people today are hungering for a knowledge of the true God. The five Southeast Asian countries we aim to reach are also among the poorest in the world and are in need of help. God has opened many doors for service in these countries over the past years. ASAP believes that quality should supersede quantity and by focusing our attention and resources on this corner of the world, the wholistic methods of reaching the people we use are very effective.
How often do ASAP personnel go to those countries to assess the needs?
The administration go at least once per year. The ASAP personnel stay in close contact with the Adventist leaders and national workers throughout the year.
How much does ASAP raise each year for projects?
Over $1,900,000. The amount of support continue to grow each year as the Holy Spirit impresses hearts to give, and more projects are added to the ASAP ministry.
Does ASAP accept tithe funds?
We do not accept tithe funds. We do accept offerings. We are a faith-based ministry that exists because of God's blessings through individuals' donations.
How is ASAP connected to the Seventh-day Adventist® Church?
Adventist Southeast Asia Projects is a faith-based ministry that fully supports the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist® Church; however, it is not part of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists® headquartered in Silver Spring, Maryland or any of its affiliates known as the Seventh-day Adventist® Church. Thus, any content or opinions expressed, implied or included in or with the services offered by Adventist Southeast Asia Projects are solely those of Adventist Southeast Asia Projects and not those of the General Conference or the Seventh-day Adventist® Church.