India Mission Trip 09-10         

Report Letter

           Over Christmas Break, a team of nine students from our church went to Kakinada, India to share the Good News of Jesus and support the rapidly growing work of the church of Christ through Ricky Gootam. To be honest it is hard for me to put down on paper or describe this magnificent God-driven work without coming up short. I hope one day God will provide a way for you to go and see His kingdom work firsthand.
          We saw God work in countless ways through our brothers and sisters in India as well as through our team. We were able to spend quality, un-hurried time with the orphans and enjoyed painting the orphanage together. Several other things were accomplished by God through us for the orphanage and homeless shelter: new blankets and sheets for every orphan and homeless person, new dresses for all the girls, several nice shirts for the older boys, new sports equipment, backpacks, new shoes, and toys were also given. Many other spiritual investments were made that are hard to measure; countless new songs taught, Bible stories told, intercessory prayers, true Christian fellowship, as well as the eternal impression left on our hearts from seeing the children smile. As of right now the orphanage is housing 73 kids in only two 10 x 10 rooms. Our church has committed funds to begin the work of adding a new level on the existing church building to serve as the new orphanage facility. Our visit, prayers, documentation, and your contributions were able to get this project off the ground!
          The Lord also took us to 12 remote villages surrounding Kakinada to encourage and strengthen the local Christians through preaching and singing. Each village we visited honored and welcomed us as if we were Christ himself and gave us more than we could have ever given them. The Lord moved in the hearts of 18 people to accept the Gospel in baptism! It was so humbling to see people dressed in their best clothes immersed in polluted ponds because of their desire to be united with Christ. We could not help but let our generosity overflow as humble requests were made in each village according to their needs. The following requests were met at various congregations: new PA system to magnify the message outside the church, a plot of land to start new church building, a shelter for a mountain church to meet, a new baptistery, 2 sewing machines, a 3 foot high wall to keep animals from rooting in the church (grass hut), repair of local preacher’s motorcycle, and smaller contributions to each local preacher. 
          I want to sincerely thank you for making this project possible through your prayers and donations. Personally, I have never been a part of a greater more impactful work that makes me believe the kingdom of God is advancing once more as a living organism. It is my prayer that our congregation will continue to support this work by our physical presence, prayers, and offerings. If you would like to contribute more to the ongoing needs of this work, sponsor a particular orphan, give to the orphanage construction, or have our group come and make a presentation to your church, please let us know. Make any contributions payable to “Stillwater Church of Christ” and in the memo write, “India Work”. Thank you for giving to the Lord.