For the past 37 years, I have devoted myself to missionary work in the Andamans. However, today's teaching has profoundly impacted my soul, akin to a transformative operation. It was an experience devoid of pain but brimming with gain, liberating me from the weight of guilt and equipping me to engage in spiritual warfare against the forces of darkness in the heavenly realms." - Ps. T, Andaman Islands.
Pastor T’s testimony stands as a testament to the many uplifting stories we encounter during our travels and ministry engagements across India. Similar to numerous pastors in India who may not have delved into the profound aspects of God’s teachings, Pastor T was initially unaware of the crucial role spiritual warfare played in his life— a pivotal element for the breakthrough in his ministry and the salvation of souls. Our outreach to pastors, such as those in the Andaman Islands, instilled newfound hope and immense joy in their inner man.
The scenario extends beyond the Andaman’s, encompassing nearly all rural areas in India reached through the pastor’s conferences organized by DPM-India. This trend is mirrored in a significant portion of pastors we encounter in Sri Lanka.
Many of these dedicated individuals find themselves grappling with personal challenges that necessitate deliverance. Consequently, this struggle puts them at a disadvantage when ministering to others in need of deliverance. These observations echo the sentiments shared by a missionary serving in the Andaman’s.
The Andaman’s, marked by a diverse influx of settlers from across India, grapples with a pervasive spiritual darkness as these individuals bring their varied idols with them. When we answer the call to pray for someone, often seeking healing from physical ailments, we encounter a unique challenge. Upon returning home, we discover that our families have become targets of spiritual attacks. However, today’s teachings shed light on the concept of the shield of faith and how to effectively wield it for the protection of our loved ones. - Sis. S, Rangat
The materials we gift to pastors, including Derek’s books & SD cards, serve as lifelines for these communities in coping with their isolation from mainland support ministries. During our recent visit to the Andaman’s, we identified a significant need for training the upcoming generation of young Christians who have spent their entire lives on these islands. Unfortunately, they have been largely overlooked, with the predominant focus on pastors in the more accessible regions of the islands.
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A poignant statement from the young organizing pastor at one conference encapsulates this oversight:
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for your journey to the remote corners of our islands. Many individuals typically opt for the convenience of flying into the capital city, Port Blair, and departing from there. However, you have chosen to invest not only your time but also made the arduous effort to reach the islands where there are virtually no roads. Your willingness to endure the challenges and uncertainties, risking your health and comfort, speaks volumes to us, a community often overlooked by ministries visiting from the mainland. Your visit has authentically exemplified Christ’s love, and the impact of the teachings we’ve received has been transformative. - Ps. V, Mayabunder
This has burdened our hearts to go back and train these young leaders who are the future of the church in the Andaman’s. We firmly believe that, despite their fragilities, these young individuals can become sturdy pillars of the church with proper guidance and training. The urgency lies in imparting the vision to them at this critical juncture.
It is the same with the young people of Sri Lanka – where we see many of them being overcome with fear and losing hope in God because of the difficult circumstances that have been bombarding the nation over the last couple of years – first Covid and then the economic crisis.
Recognizing this, there is a pressing need to conduct short-term camps to train these young people. By empowering them with the vision and teachings, we ensure that they can then share these insights with their respective youth groups. The costs for these are high as we need both the finances for the camps (which cost approx. NZ$6,750 per camp of three days for 60 young people and 10 volunteers) plus the finances to print the books that will continue to encourage and help them on their journey of empowering others. Would you be able to help fund one of these Bible training camps?
The primary book we intend to leave with them is the six-book compilation, Life Changing Spiritual Power. Additionally, we hope to print materials like Hear God’s Voice and the 10-part Laying the Foundation series in Tamil, Hindi, and Sinhala, that would facilitate their spiritual growth by helping them delve into the foundational teachings of the Word of God. The approximate cost to complete the translation and printing of these books is NZ$42,000.
Pastors in Sri Lanka constantly ask that we visit and minister to them through Derek’s teaching and so this year we also plan to hold at least three pastors’ seminars in order to encourage and support them. It costs about NZ$1,500 to hold each pastors’ conference.
Would you kindly consider joining us in this significant undertaking by providing financial support for our mission to reach and teach these marginalized communities of the kingdom? Your contribution would play a crucial role in making a positive impact on the lives of these individuals. You can donate by securely below. All donations made towards this appeal will be tax deductible.
Additionally, we sincerely covet your prayers, seeking your spiritual support and covering as we stand against the darkness to bring the light of Christ into these communities. May the Lord bless you and your families abundantly as you partner with us in this transformative journey!
