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Panchu was once a staunch Buddhist. He served in the local monastery for more than 16 years, even achieving the status of lama, or religious teacher. Still, he was unable to find the inner peace for which he longed. But things started to change when a Gospel for Asia women's team began to visit him.
Panchu and his family live in the hills of Sikkim, India. They belong to the Lepcha tribe, a people largely isolated from the outside world.
In this part of the state, harsh winters, poor communication and transportation barriers make life difficult. In fact, people from other areas of the state will not live here.
Colorful prayer flags are commonly seen throughout the region, pointing to the Lepcha's strong adherence to Buddhism-and hostility to the Gospel.
The way to Panchu's house is a five-hour walk up steep hills from where the GFA women's team is stationed. It is an exhausting trek for anyone not accustomed to climbing in high altitudes.
The team faithfully hiked those hills at least once or twice a month, building a friendship with Panchu and sharing the Gospel.
The women's care for his family fostered trust in Panchu's heart, and he enrolled his son and daughter, Chudan and Sarika, in the Bridge of Hope center the team had established. One of the factors that led to Panchu's own salvation was Sarika's healing from a strange illness.
The two children put their faith in Christ while attending the Bridge of Hope center. They love to sing the songs they learned at the center, and they've memorized many Bible verses.
Today, Panchu has found healing and liberty in the Lord Jesus. His faith is simple yet profound. He longs to see all his relatives and neighbors come to faith in Christ.
He has also donated land for a church building, and construction is already underway.
The team members are encouraged to see fruit from their hard labors in Panchu and his family. And today, in a place once resistant to the message of the Gospel, as many as 40 new Christians gather for worship every Sunday.
posted 01/09/2007
