India: “I will continue to serve God”

Christians across India are facing two crises – increasing persecution, and the devastating impact of the coronavirus. Open Doors local partners are doing all they can to keep providing relief aid and encouragement to these believers in lots of different situations – and they need your continued prayers and support. 

Pastor Raman: Still planting churches

Pastor Raman was in his church when the building was set on fire by a group of young people who were bribed by Hindu extremists. He explains, “I tried to escape from the church, but when I did, some burning wood fell on me.”

Thankfully, he has now recovered from his injuries, and your prayers and support have been able to provide him with practical aid, as well as a new sound system for the rebuilt church.

Despite this terrifying incident, Raman is committed to the ministry he feels God has called him to: planting churches in the villages around his town. “I know it can be dangerous. I also know that I might die. But I am not afraid,” he says.

Rupa: Answering God’s call

When Rupa felt God calling her to follow Jesus and serve Him through children’s ministry, her father was extremely angry and refused to support her in her education. He even forbade her from reading her Bible and, when she was home for the holidays between studying, tried to keep her locked up in the house. But with the help and prayers of brothers and sisters from around the world, she has been able to continue her studies.

She says, “I fall short of words to thank your organisation that has come forward to help me. I am very much grateful for the sponsored support towards my studies and pray every day that God’s blessings be upon His people.

“I desire to be involved in children and youth ministry after I complete my studies. Even now I involve myself in ministry with the local church and share about Christ to anyone I meet. No matter how my father reacts, I will continue to serve God. I believe there will come a day when my father will rejoice over my decision as my Heavenly father rejoices.”