September 2020
“Whatsoever you have done unto the least of my brethren, you have done it unto Me.”
~Matthew 25:40
Beloved Ones in Christ,
Years ago I was inspired by the ministry of William Booth, founder of the Salvation Army, who offered the needy “soup, soap, and salvation.” Booth recognized that God calls us to minister to the physical needs of His creation, in addition to offering the plan of salvation. Over the years IEM has endeavored to do this by caring for the poor and needy in India.
The Coronavirus pandemic has caused much suffering around the world, especially in India, and we are grateful to be part of the effort to help provide food, masks, and soap to many people during this difficult time. This month we decided to also identify local pastors and evangelists who are struggling and provide them with a cash gift to help meet their needs.
Kartika’s family is one example for a needy family that IEM has helped in South India. Her husband is a taxi driver, but because of the lockdown he is not getting much work. Kartika works for a computer school, but she is only getting 30% of her normal salary, which is not sufficient to meet their daily expenses. Her family has thanked IEM for the grocery kit, which includes hand sanitizer and masks.
The Covid lockdown in Kerala, South India, continues to affect the ministry on our campus. We are happy to report that the Bible College is continuing to operate with 95% of the students participating in online courses. We have received many positive reports from faculty and students that they are happy their education can continue through the crisis. Please continue to pray that the children will be able to return to the campus and return to school. The Kerala government has identified our campus as a possible quarantine site if the Covid cases increase. We are glad we can provide assistance in this way also.
Please continue praying for Mumbai, where Covid-19 is spreading rapidly, especially in the slum areas. The Lord is continuing to work in the hearts of people, and we are excited that local congregations we support in Mumbai are growing; and we are encouraged that new congregations are springing up.
Thank you for your continued prayers and support as we minister to the spiritual and physical needs of India through IEM. We love you and are so thankful for you.
Yours in His Service,
G.V. and Dayan Mathai