Somnuek (Nick) Punyote became a monk at age 13, a Buddhist missionary to America at age 21, and a Seventh-day Adventist at age 32.

When Punyote was six, his father died. His already poor family became poorer still. Entering the monastery was one way he could obtain an education and livelihood.

Every Thai male becomes a Buddhist monk. By observing a monk’s strict disciplines—even for a few days or months—he earns merit. Then he may marry and have an ordinary life.

Punyote studied Sanskrit and Pali, the ancient languages in which Buddha’s teachings are recorded. With this proficiency, he became a missionary to America. For three years he served at the largest Buddhist temple in California, working with people from Thailand, Cambodia, Laos and elsewhere.

He also studied English. By 1994, he had a green card, resigned from the monastery and began working. One job was with a medical transportation company.

Major Intersection

His work led to a major crossroad in his life. When Punyote picked up patients for medical appointments at Retche Canyon Rehabilitation and Health Center in Colton, he met Linda Nainggolan, a nurse’s assistant.

He soon learned that Nainggolan was a devout Seventh-day Adventist. She invited him to church. She invited him to meet friends. She invited him to evangelistic meetings.

He gently resisted. Why should he investigate Christianity? She explained that she was alone at church when others attended with boyfriends. She explained that she liked him but would not marry out of her faith. She explained that she hoped he would, at least, consider Christianity.

Punyote began studying with Sunny Wilamart, pastor of the Thai Adventist church. Nainggolan came, too. George Atiga, Asia/Pacific ministries coordinator for the Pacific Union, conducted an evangelistic meeting. Nainggolan and Punyote attended.

Punyote struggled with cultural and religious issues. To be genuinely Thai is to be Buddhist. Buddhism is a philosophy—not just a religion. Buddha is not a god, but an enlightened teacher. Christianity was so foreign.

But, having felt empty since his father’s death, Punyote was attracted to a personal God and loving Father. He also gravitated to the idea that when a person accepts Jesus, heaven and eternal life are a gift. Buddhism is a solitary journey. Progress is earned by meritorious works and discipline. Although Buddhists believe in several heavens, none reunite you with loved ones. Even Nirvana, the ultimate goal, is neither life nor death but a state of bliss.

Before his baptism on Dec. 13, 2003, Punyote read a letter to the Thai congregation. “All of you have been very kind to me. When I attend church I feel like it is my own house,” he said. “Linda has been an instrument in leading me to know the Lord, my true Father, Father of true love. Thank God I met Linda.”

While continuing weekly Bible studies with Wilamart, Punyote and Nainggolan are also planning a wedding for next year.