Shoreham Baptist’s evening
service saw Elder John Lillywhite sensing that God was saying that
the trip would be a time where He refreshed His people in India.
John did not know that I had planned to speak on Acts 3v19 that
night. The trip, by God’s wonderful grace, turned out just as the
Lord had said.
We were greatly refreshed by the love, thoughtfulness and kindness of SJ, his leaders
and family.
The three days in the Gospel
Centre, Machara, were very blessed. Over 40 delegates arrived (some sleeping in
the church) representing 30 churches. There was one meeting in particular,
where certainly it seemed like rain from heaven, as people were
being healed and restored by the Holy Spirit.
We baptised 4
people – 3 during the conference and 1 on Sunday. These were very public
occasions, just like New Testament times, in the heart of the community.
Saturday’s Pastors’
conference took place in Nagandrapuram. Over 30 delegates, representing 20
churches came to this most remote spot. SJ himself had not visited here
before. An overview of Philippians was brought and the people seemed immensely
grateful, desiring to move up a gear in ministry.
Praying for the nations.
A highlight for me, was the enthusiasm shown when praying for different
nations. We especially highlighted the needs of Kenya, which has a substantial
Indian community. Also Pakistan, with its real challenges for Christians.
Sunday was another special
day. Preaching in two churches, one again sensed the very real challenges our
brothers and sisters face in seeking to reach out and evangelise their country.
A time of prayer saw people callingout for the Holy Spirit
to empower them to take the gospel to their neighbours and friends.
In Mukteswaram, 50 people
attended representing 35 Churches at this most encouraging day conference.
Leaders really appreciated the effort to go out to the remote place
to share God’s word. It was also most encouraging for SJ to see men take
responsibility for the first time in arranging a conference in their area.
Tremendous provision
received just before we left enabled us to meet various needs including feeding
the pastors at the conferences and purchasing 100 Bibles. It was very good to
enjoy a meal in Chennai with Pastor Thankachan, his wife Beulah and SJ with his
team, who wonderfully cared for me and got me to the airport in good time.
SJ is going to finalise a TV opportunity once a month on
a channel, which can be watched all over India – “Gospel Channel”. We will
provide and pay for the 30-minute programme. He will arrange dubbing and final
presentation. He will also translate the monthly Bible studies and pastors will
receive regular teaching + an annual conference. Additionally, he will print an
Indian version of the Living Hope magazine once a year. Praise the Lord!
Pastor S.J. Kumar
writes “We are very
pleased to have Rev. Richard and Pastor Ray. We had a wonderful time in the
Lord teaching his precious Word and encouraging pastors and teachers of God’s
word. Many reported to me personally that these kinds of conferences are needed
every year, as many of them have never been privileged to attend a Bible
School. Many Pastors requested to have conferences in different places as God
leads. We pray that God will raise up some men to join with Rev. Richard so
that they can also participate in the conferences in India in the near future.”
We praise God for His presence
and help. Thank you for praying!
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