Seminars Focus on Building Healthy Churches in India

NORTH INDIA—

We are grateful to God for his unwavering guidance, which often exceeds our own plans and expectations. The year began with the establishment of new connections and partnerships, enabling us to train previously untrained leaders in unexplored locations and territories.

Our vision to reach out to untrained pastors and leaders in Himachal Pradesh is gradually becoming a reality. Himachal Pradesh, located in North India, has a population of 7,316,708 (7.32 million) residing in 12 districts and 20,690 villages.

The churches in this state have limited opportunities to develop their leader’s biblical and theological knowledge. There is not even one theological seminary available in this state, and most pastors and leaders lack the means to support their studies. In this anti-Christ-dominated state, we can become a beacon of light for these churches.

During our recent visit to Himachal Pradesh, we organized multiple vision casting and leadership seminars focused on fostering healthy churches and Christ-like leadership in mission. The response was overwhelmingly positive; hundreds of Christian leaders from over 30 denominations and from more than 25 villages received training. Leaders are eagerly anticipating future programs.

We are currently praying about organizing additional leadership seminars in the coming months, particularly in challenging locations. These places are difficult to reach due to the lack of convenient transportation options. Hiring a taxi is expensive due to the hilly terrain, and most attendees travel from remote and interior areas. Some even have to walk for miles in hilly off-road areas to reach a point where they can access limited local bus services. Consequently, they often have to stay overnight in order to catch transportation the following day, leading to additional expenses for accommodation and food.

These attendees are first-generation believers who have never had the opportunity to pursue theological studies. However, their passion to serve the Lord is unwavering. They are eager to learn, receive training, and equip themselves for more fruitful and effective ministry. Therefore, the provision of training and seminars is essential for these leaders. We are truly motivated to embark on this remarkable journey in these challenging places, and we eagerly anticipate the transformative impact of our mission’s leadership programs and seminars on the lives of individuals, churches, and communities alike.

Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity (Colossians 4:5).

The Commitment

One of the pastors we work with is among the many persecuted pastors in the area. He has faced attacks by an anti-Christ group consisting of around 70 people. However, these challenges have not deterred him from fulfilling God’s calling. He sees our presence in their land as part of God’s plan to assist and train untrained local leaders and pastors, strengthening the churches and enhancing their effectiveness in evangelism. He is fully prepared for the training and leadership seminars scheduled to take place in different districts of the state over a period of three years, starting in 2023.