image001In conjunction with the GARBC Annual Conference, the GARBC International Ministries held a luncheon on Wednesday, July 1. The 85 tickets available sold out. The purpose of the annual luncheon is to bring an update on the international ministries, introduce the international guests and hear reports from them, and engage the attendees in an offering project.

Two international guests, both from India, attended this year. Dr. Chatla Devasahayam presides over the Indian Christian Bethel Baptist Gospel Fellowship in Nidomulu. Dr. Chatla showed a video overview of this large ministry. Dr. H. C. Stephen, representative of the New Testament Baptist Churches Association in Andhra Pradesh shared a PowerPoint report of his ministry. Stephen serves as chairman of the IPFBM Council of Eight.

Chris Hindal, director of GARBC International Ministries, showed pictures and reported on his recent Gospel Literature Services trip to Guyana and three countries in the Caribbean. He also challenged the group with this year’s luncheon project. The Holy Baptists Independent Churches of Africa, an IPFBM partner, has established eight churches in northwest Tanzania. This association started a Christian school, but only one class can meet in the church building, with the rest meeting under the mango trees.

Constructing a school building is estimated to cost $24,000. After receiving $18,000 from International Ministries donors, the four-room school was able to construct a roof, leaving the doors, windows, concrete floor, and finishing work remaining. Chris challenged the group to give $2,000. Praise the Lord, the goal was met. The remaining $4,000 will be raised as God leads others to share in this ministry in Tanzania.

You can help by donating online, designating your gift “African Project.” Praise God we can help our brothers and sisters as they seek to effectively fulfill the Great Commission.