Teachers/Disciplers

Thane and Laura Ury joined OMS International in 2004, appointed as missionaries to serve in Hong Kong. Thane grew up as an MK in Taiwan, and in the mid-80s, he and Laura pastored at the Chinese United Methodist Church in Chinatown, New York.

While in Chinatown, Thane felt the tug to further his education. So when a position opened in the Bible department at Bethel College, the prospect also arose to begin a doctoral degree. Thus, in 1989 Thane began teaching at Bethel, and in 1991, he began Ph.D. studies. He taught systematic theology, Old and New Testaments, Christian apologetics, introduction to philosophy and evangelism & discipleship. In 2001, he completed his thesis.

Thane holds a bachelor of science degree from Asbury College, an M. Div. from Asbury Theological Seminary and a Ph.D. in systematic theology from Andrew University. In addition to teaching at Bethel for 15 years, he has also taught by adjunct in Asia, Romania, Nigeria and Trinidad. He also has spoken at numerous men’s, church and youth retreats.

Laura grew up the child of Salvation Army officers, earned a B.A. in art from Asbury College, taught art for three years at Bethel, has illustrated three published books, and has had work published in the War Cry. She has given private art lessons for many years and was the art department at Granger Christian School. Over the years, she has been heavily involved in women’s and children’s ministries.

Sensing their season as college professors coming to an end, the Urys resigned—again, feeling the tug of something far east of Bethel. Later, they learned of various openings in the many OMS seminaries around the world, particularly the need for a theology professor in Hong Kong. Considering Thane’s previous 15 years in Asia, his working grasp of Mandarin, service in Chinatown, long tenure teaching at the college level, plus M. Div. and Ph. D. degrees, it seemed like the Lord just might pull these fragments together to fill the Hong Kong teaching post. There’s a wonderful correlation of doors opening up, which match ones preparedness, and this position with OMS’UNITED WESLEYAN GRADUATE INSTITUTE seemed ideal. What a privilege for Thane and Laura to go, teach, and disciple Chinese hearts and minds in the context of scriptural holiness.

Dr. Ury teaches theology and trains Chinese pastors at UWGI, along with handling some administrative responsibilities. Laura is involved in prayer ministry and contributing at the International Christian School. Both are discipling disciple makers and leaders for the Hong Kong of tomorrow. UWGI aims to train pastors “of one book,” while forging a balance between an intellect set on fire, and a “heart strangely warmed.”

The Urys have four children. Cameron attends Asbury College; Bethany is a high school senior; Bryce and Lauren are middle schoolers.

Missionary ID #802313