Faith-based mission work usually develops slowly, built from long-standing relationships far from public attention. For Eileen Richardson, that kind of steady approach has defined decades of service that started in Nova Scotia and stretched to parts of Southeast Asia through teaching, mentorship, and ongoing partnership.
Richardson first became involved in overseas missions through a connection with a Bible Training Centre in the Philippines. The school had originally been established as a retreat for missionaries and pastors, but over time it turned into a respected centre for training national leaders. Its focus was practical and long-term, preparing students to share the Gospel and plant churches within their own communities and throughout the region.
As part of a visiting missions team, Richardson travelled to the Philippines regularly to teach and support outreach efforts. Those years led to relationships that extended far beyond the classroom. One significant relationship was with a young student named Alice, who felt called to missionary work. Their connection marked the start of a partnership that would last for decades.
“I was so pleased to be part of her graduation ceremony,” Richardson recalls, reflecting on Alice’s early steps into ministry. After finishing her training, Alice’s work eventually led her to Cambodia, where she became involved in an orphanage near the Thailand border.
During a trip through Asia, Richardson visited the orphanage and saw the living conditions the children faced. Most slept on thin mats on the floor and lacked access to basic care. The children came from difficult backgrounds, including poverty, addiction, and abandonment. Richardson describes the focus of the work clearly, noting that “her work was with the children nobody wanted.”
Addressing immediate needs became the first priority. Bunk beds were bought to give each child a proper place to sleep. Richardson remembers the moment as a turning point, seeing how something simple restored dignity and excitement for the children. From then on, Alice focused on teaching personal hygiene, nutrition, academic subjects, and Bible education.
With time, the orphanage became a stable and supportive environment. Local leaders took notice of the changes and improvements. Even the village mayor got involved after seeing the progress. By the time Alice moved on several years later, the children were educated and prepared to face the future. Richardson has kept photographs from that period, showing the children standing proudly in front of their beds with banners of gratitude.
The experience in Cambodia became foundational for the next phase of their shared work. Alice moved to Thailand, where she and Richardson established a teaching ministry and life skills centre. What started as a small operation gradually grew into a large facility, with outreach programs reaching remote mountain villages where educational resources were limited. The work combined practical life skills with spiritual teaching, helping people build confidence and direction and their daily lives.
Each year, Alice returned to the Philippines to spend time with her family. Returning to Thailand after one such visit, she brought with her a husband who shared her passion and commitment to faith and service. Together, they taught English, Bible classes, and life skills. From Nova Scotia, Richardson remained closely involved, offering guidance, encouragement, and logistical support.
“I was their support system, and the emails and phone calls flew back and forth,” she explains. The ministry relied on shared responsibility and constant communication across borders.
Almost thirty years later, the partnership reflects a long-term commitment to faith, service, and relationship-building. From her base in Nova Scotia, Eileen Richardson has supported work that focused on practical care, education, and hope. While much of the work unfolded quietly, its impact has been felt throughout communities formed by patience, trust, and consistent presence.