Today we’re celebrating God’s amazing work through Standing Stone shepherds in India, where—despite ongoing persecution under an anti-Christian government—pastors and their wives received training, encouragement, and an opportunity to reset.
My wife and I had a retreat scheduled, but four days of continuous, heavy rains had forced several small villages to be evacuated and local schools to be closed. Rivers overflowed, roads were cut off, and most people endured power outages for several hours each day. We contemplated canceling our retreat for ministry leaders, but the pastoral couples were so determined to come, we decided to move forward and trust God to do what only He can.
Ten couples attended the retreat, and all returned home blessed and refreshed. Both tears and laughter filled this retreat. My wife felt sick at the beginning of the week, but others pitched in to help her cook delicious food and arrange innumerable details for the couples. What a gift to see the Body of Christ in action!
God moved in powerful ways as the pastoral couples heard teaching, spent time in fellowship, and took time to process and pray. It humbled and thrilled us to see what the Lord did in each ministry leader. Not only did the pastoral couples overcome the obstacles of travelling during the severe rains, many also walked in faith, entrusting the care of their children to a family member or friend during the vicious storms so that they could come to the retreat. We were very touched by the desire and determination of these pastors and their wives. The Lord definitely rewarded them with some deep healing and, for many, a fresh start.
Thank you for being part of Standing Stone; your partnership as a donor, shepherd, or volunteer enables us to have greater impact in India. We welcome your prayers!
