Classes start today at a Gospel for Asia Bible college in Rajasthan, India—an annual beginning welcomed with an extra measure of happiness and relief this year.

Two weeks ago, Bible college leaders had been suddenly informed they would need to look for another facility. Fearing local anti-Christian sentiment, their landlord had asked the leaders and students to vacate. But because of increasing pressures to refuse occupancy to Christian groups, they knew no other suitable place would be available, and time was running out.

Then, just 10 days before the beginning of the new school year, the landlord came to the Bible college staff with a change of heart.

The man’s daughter had just received a sought-after position, and the family planned to relocate with her. Since the landlord knew the Bible college leaders personally and had watched their lives, he asked them to continue renting the facility in his absence.

“He wanted to hand over his building to them rather than anyone else, or for any other purpose,” a GFA field correspondent reported.

“He assured our staff that they could stay in his building as long as they want, and if any problem arises from outside, he would stand by their side to help them.”

“Our staff could not stop praising God,” he commented. “This incident has increased their faith.”

In Rajasthan, opposition against Christians has increased markedly in the past few months. Most notably, a proposed anti-conversion bill—which would make even third-party complaints about Christian activity grounds for arrest and imprisonment—is now before India’s president for review.

During the month of June, Gospel for Asia’s 54 Bible colleges, located all across the Indian subcontinent, are beginning a new academic year. More than 9,000 students are enrolled.