Source:  www.assistnews.net

Date:  September 24, 2007

Gospel for Asia
For Immediate Release

Even in the midst of opposition, precious Dalits in Asia are finding hope as they hear the Good News of a Savior.

ORISSA, INDIA (ANS) -- Hungry to know more about Jesus, a good number of Dalits in a village in Orissa, India, have been attending a fellowship group led by two Gospel for Asia missionaries. And because of Jesus, many of these Dalits are experiencing wonderful transformation in their lives! However, a recent instance of caste-related intimidation has fostered an especially tense atmosphere in the village, and some have been afraid to continue attending.

The incident took place when members of two Dalit families refused to beat drums every day as part of a religious ceremony at a temple in the area.

When the two families refused to continue the tradition of playing drums, they incited the anger of the local high-caste community. Several villagers barged in and plundered the homes of these two families, pushing and shoving them roughly. The families were driven from their homes.

Several months later, the atmosphere in the village is still tense.

Orissa is known for its persecution of Christians. This is the place where missionary Graham Staines and his two sons were martyred. Police in the area are keeping a critical eye on those GFA missionaries sharing the Good News in the village, as rumors have been circulating that Dalits are being converted through allurement, or promise of benefits.

But for these Dalits and others who are hearing the Good News of Jesus, the decision to receive and follow Christ is a choice they make. In the midst of their oppression and the very real sense of being trampled by caste oppression, they are finding hope and joy in a Savior who cherishes them and knows them by name.

GFA leaders request prayer for the Dalit drummers and for those who have stopped attending the fellowship group out of fear. They also request prayer for the two missionaries as they faithfully minister in this area. Please pray that the Christians involved in this situation will be strengthened.