Partnerships in India

On November 4, 2001, one million low-caste Hindus known as dalits rallied in New Delhi to publicly convert to Buddhism. Believing this action would improve their status and self-image, political leaders encouraged these people to choose Buddhism rather than Christianity. But that political show doesn't represent all of India's billion people. Many long for a personal relationship with the one true God. India today is "ripe unto harvest."

In 1997, ABWE began working with Baptist national leaders in many areas of India. In their letters, our partners share the following:

Evangelism

• "Many children from different backgrounds attend our Bible Clubs."
• "Seven people followed the Lord in baptism, bringing the total to 19 believers."
• "During our week-long camp for young fathers, 15 men accepted Christ."
• "I preached at the Pastors & Deacons Conference in an area where we have 26 churches."
• "Many wayward people are coming to hear the gospel."

Leadership Training

ABWE missionaries Harry Ambacher, B. & L. Jones, and Wally & Jeannie Stephenson served as adjunct professors in three Bible schools in 2001. Opportunities abound for training local leaders from church-centered programs for lay people through Masters' level studies in Bible and missions.

Providing income-generating skills along with Bible training

Jay Walsh has worked with national partners to help provide self-employment training in agriculture, fishery, animal husbandry, carpentry, and tailoring. These skills enable evangelists to enter villages, make new friends, witness for the Lord, and earn a decent living as well. Bottom line: the evangelists are able to support themselves.

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