The children at this Bridge of Hope center enjoy their academic subjects. Gospel for Asia Bridge of Hope staff in Jammu and Kashmir are hoping their center can soon reopen. |
A Gospel for Asia Bridge of Hope center in Jammu and Kashmir, India, has had to completely shut down for the past month.
This is just one effect of the ongoing recent tension in the state due to a heated land dispute between the government and the Shri Amarnath Shrine Board. While there was a temporary return to relative normalcy, the agitation has now resumed—and it appears that various political groups are inciting the common people to protest in the streets.
In one incident, at least 50 people were hurt when mobs set parts of government buildings on fire and engaged in conflict with the police.
A curfew is in effect in a number of villages, but protestors are willfully violating it. Many stores are completely closed down, and the tension has made it difficult—if not impossible—for people to travel and purchase food. Because of the volatile situation, most are afraid to venture out of their homes.
The conflict has also made things difficult for Gospel for Asia’s ministry in Jammu and Kashmir. Not only has one of our Bridge of Hope centers had to shut down for the past month, our missionaries and film ministry teams have also not been able to travel for outreach.
GFA staff and missionaries in Jammu and Kashmir are fervently praying for a peaceful solution so that their ministries can soon continue. They ask for your prayers for the Lord’s intervention in the situation so that Christ’s love can be freely shared in Jammu and Kashmir, India.