How a 'bridge school' in India gives Roshan and Devi new hope
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Rejected by family, homeless and out of school… Young Roshan* had an uncertain future. But mum Devi trusted God, and her prayers were answered – through you.
Not long after little Roshan was born into a Hindu family in India, his mum took a decision that would change his life forever.
A travelling missionary came to the village and asked Roshan’s mum, Devi*, if she believed in Jesus. “Yes I believe,” she replied, with conviction and faith. “I’ve always wanted to be a Christian. I want to commit my children’s futures to the hands of
Jesus.”
It was a moment of joy – but it had terrible consequences.
"Let go of your faith or never come back.”
“You bring shame on us because of your faith in Christ!” Devi’s family cried, when they heard of her conversion. “We’re breaking all bonds with you. Don’t call us even if something happens to you or Roshan. We won’t help. Let go of your faith or never
come back.”
So Roshan, his brother and Devi left. Village after village rejected them until finally, in an isolated forest community, they were welcomed by believers like themselves.
The village is desperately poor, it’s true. And Devi struggles to make ends meet with her small cleaning job. But thanks to your amazing support, persecution won’t hold Roshan back from a bright future.
‘You were sent to help us’
Open Doors local partners run a bridge school in the village, and your gifts and prayers mean Roshan has a place there – and is thriving. “My teacher told me Jesus loves me,” says Roshan. “And the best part of going to school is during Christmas when
I get to sing and dance and celebrate Jesus’ birth with everyone.”
With your support, 29 pupils receive an education as well as spiritual input at the school. They’re from different religions and backgrounds, and the school fosters peace and understanding between families.
"I know Jesus sends people like you to help us”
Devi
For Devi, a single mum, it’s a relief to know her son is safe – and that Christians like you care. “When I was a Hindu I made lots of sacrifices and donated money for prayer for my children. Now though, I know Jesus hears my prayer – and He sends people
like you to help us,” says Devi.
“You are instruments of God’s blessings and messengers of God’s love,” she added, smiling. “Through you, Roshan has free access to education, the privilege to grow and the opportunity to build a future. I am very happy and thankful for you.”
*Illustrative photos used and name changed for security reasons
please pray
Pray young Roshan would grow in understanding, grace and faith, knowing Christ’s love.
Give thanks for teachers working in Roshan’s school, and ask God to give them wisdom.
Lift up Devi to the Lord. Give thanks for her extraordinary faith and courage amid persecution, and pray God will continue to bless her.
please give
Please will you give the gift of a safer childhood to a persecuted child this Christmas?
Every HK$310 could provide trauma counselling to a persecuted child, bringing hope and healing.
Every HK$460 could provide vital emergency food to three families affected by violent persecution.
Every HK$650 could give a year’s education to a persecuted child, helping them have a brighter future.
