BRETHREN GLOBAL PARTNERS: INDIA
THEIR STORY
Nirmala Kumar, Rev. Sudhir & Latha Kumar
THEIR STORY
For over forty years, in a country where 80% of its one-billion people are Hindu, Rev. Dr. K. Prasanth and Nirmala Kumar, along with their son and daughter-in-law (Rev. Sudhir and Latha Kumar) have preached God's truth and overseen the many Brethren ministries in India. Youth and children’s ministries are foremost along with relief and educational endeavors. This includes ministries such as the typing institute, The Brethren Sewing school, and free buttermilk programs. Not only do they help with many who are impoverished and in need, but also those who are the most receptive to the Gospel message. 
NEWS & NOTEWORTH
The joy of the resurrection echoed across Andhra Pradesh, India, this past Easter, as our Brethren partners celebrated the baptism of twenty-four new believers at the Rajahmundry and Visakhapatnam churches. What a powerful testament to the living hope found in Jesus Christ. Each of these individuals has embraced a transformational change, choosing to follow the light of the Savior over the multitude of deities in the Hindu faith. This courageous step, while filled with spiritual joy, often comes with real earthly consequences. For some, choosing Jesus means facing the painful reality of being shunned by their families and communities. Yet, in their baptism, these brothers and sisters have declared a profound truth: following Christ offers not only hope for this life, filled with His love and guidance, but also the eternal promise of life everlasting with Him. This beautiful event, occurring on Easter Sunday, is a vibrant expression of the resurrection we celebrate. Just as Christ rose from death to new life, these twenty-four individuals have risen to a new life in Him. Their baptism is a powerful reminder that the victory over death is real, and the hope we have in Jesus is a hope that transcends earthly trials and stretches into eternity. Let us celebrate their courageous faith and continue to support our partners as they nurture these new lives in Christ!  Scott C. Soden Coordinator; Brethren Global Partners
Praise, Prayer, and Provision in India! The Brethren Church in India has been very busy these last few months with the ongoing work of the ministry. Although it doesn’t snow in India, this time of year brings rainy weather and cooler temperatures. Thanks to your generosity, Nirmala was able to purchase blankets, towels, and other necessities for the children at the orphanage. These gifts mean more than you can imagine to those who possess very little. Now, the children can feel assured of staying warm and dry during the cooler months. Sudhir has been making trips around the region to meet with many Brethren, pastors, and congregations. He and his wife, Latha, often bring words of encouragement and love during their visits. In Rajahmundry, Nirmala and the leaders held a special day of praise and prayer on January 26th. Many from the community joined in the event, singing and worshiping the Lord for His provision, mercy, and grace. Prayer filled the church throughout the day, with many people on their knees. These prayers were not only for the church and the local community but also for you! They prayed for the awakening of the church worldwide, for repentance, and that everyone would find hope and life in Jesus through the power of the Holy Spirit. What a testimony to all that God continues to do with and through His people around the world! Scott C. Soden Coordinator; Brethren Global Partners
If you find it difficult to cope with the heat, rest assured that you are not alone. While many people enjoy warm weather, there comes a point where the temperature becomes too hot, and it is no longer comfortable to be outside. If you are from the South or Midwest, you may find that the humid weather during the hot season makes the temperature even more uncomfortable. Shirts stick to your body, and your hair becomes unruly. In the West, the heat is coupled with dry air, which can be pretty harsh, taking your breath away and dehydrating your body. Fortunately, we have developed various climate control methods, such as fast-moving fans and air conditioning, which make our offices and homes more comfortable. Many people across the world live in countries where air conditioning is not easily accessible due to poverty. As a result, they have to work in extreme heat, often in produce fields or brick-making factories. In some places, temperatures can reach up to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. This can be a harsh reality for those in countries like Africa, South America, and India, where people have no choice but to keep moving despite the scorching heat. In India, the hot weather can be dangerous for travelers, workers, and families. However, the partners in India have been providing a solution for the past 30 years. They have established free buttermilk stations in the local communities to help weary travelers. This buttermilk is a unique blend of milk, water, and yogurt that regulates the body's natural heat resistance and refreshes the body and spirit of those who stop by the stations. The drink not only nourishes the body but also helps uplift the soul as prayer is offered. Your support is essential in empowering your partners in India to carry out vital outreach initiatives in communities such as Rajahmundry. Your contributions are not just financial; they are a testimony to the compassion and love that Jesus calls us to exhibit in our churches, communities, and around the world. If your church is also engaged in similar outreach work, we would love to hear your stories and share them with our community! Scott Soden Global Partners Coordinator