Gospel for Asia-supported missionaries spend a lot of time in their communities talking to people about Jesus and praying for their needs. |
A Gospel for Asia-supported missionary has been given notice that he must leave his mission field in Sikkim, India. Santua Barman, who serves as pastor of a small church, received the threat from a local anti-Christian group. They gave him 10 days to move away with his family members.
In spite of the threats, Santua plans to stay in the village and continue ministering to the people.
He filed a police complaint against the group that is making the threats against him. The courts are trying to resolve the matter, but the group’s leaders have so far refused to show up for their court dates.
Santua asks for prayer that he will be strong and continue to trust Jesus Christ in the situation.
“I know that only Jesus can solve this problem,” he said.
Pastor Santua also asks for prayer that the Lord will touch the hearts of the people who are conspiring against the church, and that they will experience the love of Jesus Christ in their hearts. He also requests prayers that God would protect him and his congregation.
05/06/2010 UPDATE:
Pastor Santua remains in the village where he is serving. The police have initiated criminal proceedings against the people who are threatening the pastor. The men are scheduled to appear before the judge on May 7, 11 and 14. Pastor Santua asks for prayer that the Lord will guide the court hearing so that he will be able to continue ministering to the people in this place. He also asks for prayer that the men who came against him will come to understand that Jesus loves them.