Indian homes are very small and are often constructed with readily available, yet highly flammable, materials. Some homes are made from mud and grass, like these. Others are constructed from wood or concrete blocks.
Fifteen families with children enrolled in a Gospel for Asia Bridge of Hope center were among the victims of the fire that raged through a village in Bihar in late March. The director of the Bridge of Hope center said the children even lost their school books and uniforms that were provided for them by their Bridge of Hope sponsors.

The fire, determined to be accidental, destroyed the homes of 100 families. Many of the family members suffered serious burns and other injuries, and lost everything they had, including their livestock.

At least 10 of the homes belonged to Christians affiliated with the local GFA-related church. One of the homes destroyed in the blaze was being used as a place for worship, since the small congregation does not yet have its own church building.

These families lost everything they had in the fire, including their livestock. GFA’s Compassion Services teams are assisting them with immediate and long-term needs stemming from the fire.
GFA’s Compassion Services teams are assisting the families with immediate and long-term needs stemming from the fire. The families are receiving food and other necessary household items, and the teams are assessing the needs for long-term assistance.

GFA missionaries in the area ask for prayer for the families devastated by these fires. Also pray that the Compassion Services workers will be able to obtain the necessary resources to assist these families. Prayer is also requested for the Bridge of Hope director and for the missionary who was leading the home-based church. Pray that he will be able to comfort and lead his congregation during this difficult time.