Thomas Schoen

Tom is the son of pioneer missionary parents who were called to serve indigenous people groups in the jungles of Suriname, South America. Tom felt the call to full-time ministry at a young age. When he graduated High School he returned to the US to pursue a BA in Biblical Studies from Trinity College and an MA in World Missions and Intercultural Studies from Biola University. Subsequently he served as a pastor in the US for 20 years while maintaining missions involvement among the indigenous people he grew up with in Suriname. He speaks the Wayana, Trio and Sranan Tongo languages of Suriname fluently. 

Junine graduated from The Kings College in New York with a BS in Business Administration and a minor in Bible. She completed additional course work at Biola. With a heart for ministry Junine served for 26 years as a CFO/VP of Finance for Wycliffe Associates, Open Doors with Brother Andrew, Inc. and Azusa Pacific University. In addition she has served as a faithful partner in ministry with Tom. 

Tom and Junine are now transitioning to fulltime missionary work with TWR. Tom will be leading the development of a radio ministry to the indigenous people of Suriname as the on-the-ground liaison between the Suriname government and the Wajana and Trio elders for licensing and subsequent implementation. The Wajana and Trio church elders are losing contact with their next generation as they are spreading out deeper into the jungle in search for new sources of food and fertile land for planting. Others are on the move looking for work in the gold mines, lumber industry, etc. to provide basic necessities for their families. The elders wish is to disciple them and they see radio as the primary means to do so. We believe radio will unite, encourage and minister to the tribes as well as spread the Gospel to other unreached people groups.

Along with TWR, Tom will work with a Suriname team to build two radio transmission stations and train the indigenous people to maintain and operate them. Tom will also train the people in the production of broadcast-ready material. What a blessing it will mean for them to listen to Christian music, Gospel preaching, Scripture reading, exhortation, prayer and much more in their own language.

Junine will partner in the ministry utilizing her skills in finance, legal and administrative matters related to the project. She will also hold down the fort at home while still managing an active household. The Schoen’s have four children, one married and three living at home – Hope, Josiah, Gabriella and Jaclyne.

Tom and Junine have raised 50% of their monthly support and are looking for individual and churches who want to join them on this adventure with continued monthly support. They need 100% before they can leave for the field. Click the donate button and join or team!!