India (GFA) — Five Gospel for Asia women missionaries were beaten recently while sharing the love of Christ in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh.
Five GFA-supported missionaries attacked in Andhra Pradesh. (Image courtesy GFA)
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.”
Ask the Lord to protect missionaries as they continue to share Christ’s love in Andhra Pradesh. Pray for transformed hearts in the men who attacked these women.
