Despite the persecution that many missionaries in Rajasthan face, they are committed to sharing the Gospel. Through their ministries many have come to know the love of Christ.

The dry sand makes little clouds of dust as GFA-related church pastor Than Singh John walks down the street in his village. The hot, arid weather of the summer months can reach temperatures of 113 degrees. But in the Indian state of Rajasthan, Pastor John must deal with much more than the harsh elements. He often faces hostility from anti-Christian extremists.

The most recent incident occurred in May when two masked extremists on motorcycles told him and his family to get out of their village. Throughout the past year, Pastor John has faced several episodes of opposition like this one. Local police have not responded to reports of the conflicts, so now he remains guarded and keeps a low profile so he can continue his ministry.

Last year, a group of four extremists threatened Pastor John in front of his home. When he tried to file a complaint about the incident with local police, they refused to register his statement.

The extremists were upset because many people were receiving the love of Christ through his Bridge of Hope outreach.

Then, another group of extremists threatened Pastor John, his wife and their children. He immediately filed another complaint with police, who took no action. Then as the family returned home, the two masked men approached them saying they must move away from the area. The extremists were upset because many people were receiving the love of Christ through his Bridge of Hope outreach.

Pastor John considered moving the BOH center, but that would prevent many of the children from attending because they would not be able to travel to the new site. So, in order to continue the ministry he has begun working more carefully.

For now, Pastor John and the other believers are safe, and the tensions have decreased. He asks for prayer that he will have wisdom as he ministers in this area of Rajasthan. Also pray that those who are against his ministry will come to know the Lord personally through Pastor John’s witness and example.

Many Gospel for Asia missionaries endure persecution.

Learn more about the Indian state of Rajasthan.