Rakesh, a pastor living with his family in a small village in northern India, has faced significant challenges because of his faith in Jesus. Despite persecution, his commitment to the Gospel keeps him steadfast in the area, where he shares the Word with Hindu communities in at least ten nearby villages.
It all began when a sick Hindu woman attended a service at Rakesh’s home, and after receiving prayer, she was healed and chose to give her life to Jesus. This conversion enraged her relatives, including priests from the local Hindu temple, who then organized an attack against the pastor.
On June 2, 2024, while the woman was participating in a service, a mob violently stormed the gathering, demanding that the meetings be stopped. Rakesh was brutally beaten, and both his church and home were vandalized. Police ordered all Christian activities at the site to cease, creating fear among the congregation and reducing attendance.
Facing economic hardship, Rakesh received support from the International Christian Concern (ICC), which helped him open a general store that provided financial independence. Thanks to this business, he was able to improve his home, support his family, and strengthen his ministry.
The store prospered and was moved to a more central location, attracting more customers and enabling Rakesh to continue expanding his spiritual work. As a result of these efforts, more than ten Hindus accepted Christ and now regularly attend a growing church.
This testimony highlights how, despite persecution and hardship, God’s provision guides and sustains those who persevere in faith, expanding the Kingdom of God in northern India.
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