Our Brethren family in Andhra Pradesh recently said a temporary goodbye to two devoted men of God: Rev. E. Yesupadam and Rev. Rayudu Satyam. While we feel the weight of their absence, we are also celebrating two lives that were truly poured out for the Gospel over many decades, bearing fruit that will last for generations.

In Ramavaram: The Legacy of Rev. E. Yesupadam

Just a few weeks ago, Rev. Yesupadam passed peacefully into the arms of the Savior following a period of illness in his old age. For those in the community of Ramavaram, he wasn’t just a pastor; he was a steady, loving presence who lived his life right alongside his congregation. He saw families transformed by Christ for generations, and his ministry was built on those personal, daily relationships.

One of the most beautiful parts of his story is how the Lord prepared the way for what comes next. His son, Pastor E. Kishore Babu, has been working faithfully by his father’s side for several years. As Kishore now steps into the role of lead pastor, we ask that you join us in praying for him—that he would feel the Lord’s strength and wisdom as he carries forward the spiritual foundation his father laid.

This same divine pattern of a father’s legacy passing to a faithful son is mirrored in a nearby community, where the Brethren family is also honoring a beloved leader who has finished his race.

In Timmapuram: Remembering Rev. Rayudu Satyam

In a remarkable parallel, the community of Timmapuram is also mourning the loss of their shepherd, Rev. Rayudu Satyam, who passed away just a few days after Rev. E. Yesupadam. Rev. Satyam was known for a quiet strength and a deep, unwavering commitment to the Brethren faith. His legacy is etched into the lives of the villagers he counseled, the children he blessed over the years, and the church he helped to flourish through the grace of our Lord.

Once again, we see God’s providence in the family. Pastor Rayudu Eliah served as his father’s faithful helper for many years and has now taken over as the lead pastor. Please keep Eliah in your prayers as he answers this call, and ask that the light of the Gospel continues to shine brightly through his leadership in Timmapuram.

A Hope That Transcends Loss

We certainly grieve the loss of these two pillars of faith, but we don’t grieve as those without hope. We are reminded of the promise that those who die in the Lord may rest from their labors, for their work follows them.

The stories of Rev. Yesupadam and Rev. Satyam aren’t over. They continue through their sons, through the congregations they built, and through the Gospel that remains the same yesterday, today, and forever. As we celebrate these two lives well-lived, please also remember the Yesupadam and Satyam families in your daily prayers, asking for comfort and peace during this time, as well as for the sons who are taking up the mantle of their fathers in the service of our Lord and their communities.

Respectfully submitted,

Scott Soden
Director of Global Partners and Advancement
The Brethren Church