As many of you know, persecution of Christians in India has been severe in recent times. This has been one of the things that have touched my heart so much for India. I will share about this more in my report to the church next Sunday. But, two of our pastors that have become apart of Liberty Network Asia had their churches destroyed this past year in the persecution.
Because of this, our water Baptism service took place at daylight Sunday morning to not call a lot of attention to those being baptized. Water Baptism, to us as Christians, is very sacred. To the Indian Government it means conversion from Hinduism and has to be registered.
Those doing this are marked. It was a very bold stand for Christ for these to come and be publicly baptized. It was a beautiful service and one that I will never forget and was privileged to take part in. Let's continue to pray for our Indian Brothers and Sisters in Christ.
So Sunday started very early. The Crusade had run very late followed of course by tea and fellowship. We were able to rest for a few minutes following the baptism service and before Sunday Worship. We continued the crusade onto Sunday morning and met under the tent again. It was even a bigger crowd than the night before!
Sunday morning was our big laying on of hand service for those coming under Liberty Network Asia in South India. We had 14 men licensed or ordained. These men have been known by or working under Shajan for many years. It was such a joy to spend time with them and now to lay hands upon them recognizing their call of ministry. The Lord ministered to all of them. And we are so glad to have them apart of our Liberty family.
They don't wear watches and time is no big deal in the Indian Church. Following the ordination service I was ready to preach. But the pastors had prepared a special tribute for Jim and I. We were greatly blessed as they draped us in their traditional shawl and put flowers around our necks.
The village president came forward and honored us on behalf of the vision. The people loved it and I loved the people. It was something really special. The hospitality of the church there toward us, and there passion and faith toward the Lord is something I'll never forget.
It was so easy to preach and the presence of the Lord was strong. We prayed for and ministered to scores of people. Many people just coming in from the village for me to pray for. It was a great day!
Praise the Lord. I am glad you are well and feeling better. Thank you Jesus. We all miss you and look forward to your return. I'm sure you have even more to share with us than what you can type on this blog. We thank you all for your service and work in Jesus name and we continue daily in prayer for you all. God Bless.
Posted by: Tanya McIntyre | October 28, 2008 at 06:49 PM
That was truly an incredible journey.It is great to see that God's people are every where and that they love him so much despite the hardships that they endure. Thank you so much for sharing this with us because it has been inspirational.We look forward to your safe return and much needed rest.
Posted by: George | October 28, 2008 at 11:01 PM
I'm glad you reached so many people. We have been praying for you and we will continue to until you get home. I can't wait to here more about the trip on Sunday. God Bless..
Posted by: Brian & Zondra Woodruff | October 31, 2008 at 08:38 AM