Man attacks women missionaries in marketplace

India (GFA) — Five Gospel for Asia women missionaries were beaten recently while sharing the love of Christ in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh.

In the late morning, Bansari, Jaladhi, Kuyil, Sunita, and Viveka visited a marketplace about four miles from the GFA administrative office where they serve.

While the women were offering literature to shopkeepers and bystanders, a young man asked Jaladhi what they were doing. When Jaladhi said they were sharing about Christ’s love, the young man slapped her in the face.

As Sunita, Viveka, and Bansari rushed to Jaladhi, the man attacked them also, hitting their necks, faces, ears, and heads. Meanwhile, Kuyil, who stood in another part of the marketplace, escaped five men who had surrounded her.

Passersby watched the situation but did nothing to stop the attack.

Due to blows, the missionaries suffered from pain and swelling. They immediately reported the incident to their leaders after returning to the office. They say they rejoice that God’s name will be honored through their suffering.

“We rejoice in the Lord, though beaten up,” Bansari said. “May the Lord change their hearts.”

Learn more about women missionaries who lay down their lives to reach some of the most desperate women in Asia.

Ask the Lord to protect missionaries as they continue to share Christ's love in Andhra Pradesh. Pray for transformation in the hearts of the men who attacked these women.