TEZPUR MINISTRY – FIRST DAYS IN THE FIELD

Our days are beginning to blend together, so I’ll be breaking our updates into sections. This first one is Tezpur Ministry.

 Yesterday afternoon marked our first official day of ministry. We met with 19 pastors and translators for training. Larry delivered an outstanding teaching on the Four Fields, and each of us walked away with truths and tools we will carry into the field and into daily life. Though we were packed into a hotel room, it was a joy simply to be together. For security reasons, Charles made the last-minute decision to move the meeting from the banquet hall to his room. I am grateful for his leadership, his wisdom, and his gentle yet warrior-hearted care for the team.

 After training, we divided into ministry teams. Each vehicle was equipped with a pastor, one to two translators, and one to two New Hope team members — ready to go where God would lead.

 That evening, we gathered with our national partners for dinner as one united team of “Gospelers.” We shared food, laughter, and fellowship — preparing our hearts before heading out to share the Good News.

 Each team had two Gospel appointments, lasting 60–75 minutes each. In total, we presented the Gospel to 50 people, and 28 accepted Jesus Christ as their personal Savior. Praise God! We encountered a few translator challenges on the first night, but with adjustments in place, we are trusting for smoother ministry ahead.

 This morning, we visited Don Bosco Higher Secondary School in Tezpur — a school we also visited last year. We toured their new outdoor kitchen, learned more about their operations, and enjoyed tea with the school’s Director as he shared his heart for the students. Katie and Bradley especially loved spending time with the school’s puppies and kitten.

 Please join us in praying for this school. While they care deeply for their students, they currently do not present the Gospel in order to maintain peace among diverse beliefs. We’ve seen how silence in the U.S. on the Gospel can lead to spiritual complacency, and our hearts ache that many students may never hear the truth during their time surrounded by Christians.

 As we prepare to head back out this afternoon, we ask for continued prayers for safety, health, and rest. We are excited to witness God at work here in India. We truly have a front-row seat to what He is doing — and we are being deeply humbled in the process.

 ~Joie