A Season of Growth: Updates from India

I am writing to share encouraging news from our Global Partners in India. We are seeing hope take root in very practical ways, and I wanted to make sure to share how God is moving across the region.

Recently, we celebrated a significant milestone at our Sewing School. Eight of our students didn’t just graduate; they were each sent home with their very own sewing machine. We like to think of these sewing machines as “businesses in a box.” For these women, the machine represents a way to earn a dignified income from the safety of their own homes. This is particularly vital in this region, where the threat of human trafficking is a constant reality for those without financial independence. By providing these tools, we aren’t just teaching a skill—we are helping to secure a future for entire families.

As you may know, the church in India is currently observing the Lenten season. Since Ash Wednesday, our brothers and sisters have been dedicated to forty days of prayer and fasting. In India, Lent is a sacred time and often leads to a massive celebration of the Resurrection on Easter Sunday, along with many baptisms. It is a powerful witness to see so many people choose to publicly declare their faith.

Our local leaders remain incredibly busy serving the 150 to 180 Brethren churches throughout the region:

In Rajahmundry, Nirmala continues her tireless work at the medical clinic and oversees the care of the children at the compound. She remains a steady, loving presence for the orphans, ensuring they stay healthy and focused on their studies.

Meanwhile, Sudhir and Latha are balancing their ministry at the Urban church in Visakhapatnam with frequent travel to rural villages. They often journey to remote areas to support local pastors who face significant risks. Because of the threat of persecution, these services and ministry visits often take place in the middle of the night, sometimes stretching well past midnight. Their courage in reaching these isolated congregations is truly inspiring.

Please keep Nirmala, Sudhir, Latha, and all our local pastors in your daily prayers. Pray for their safety, their physical health, and that the church in India would continue to grow in both strength and spirit.

Scott Soden
Director of Brethren Global Partners