Barnabas Ministries has had an expanding role in the orphan ministry run by Pastor Samuel in S. India. In 2003, Pastor Samuel purchased a 2-room house to provide a home for destitute children. With incremental improvements to the house the ministry grew to serve 15 children living in 3 rooms. In America, this would constitute dangerous overcrowding, but in India, it's a great improvement over life on the street where children scavenge for food in garbage heaps.
In March of 2009 Pastor Samuel shared his concern that 13- and 14-year old girls were forced to sleep in the same room with younger boys and girls. Because these girls were coming "of age," the need for separation was becoming critical. Plans have been drawn to build a new orphanage to house 50 children. But that project will take time to fund and build. The children needed space NOW!
I asked if there was a temporary solution. He explained that he could add 3 rooms to the current structure for just $5000. Barnabas Ministries was able to provide $3000 on the spot and promised to send the balance in the next two months. By God's grace that goal was reached and the remaining funds I promised were in Samuel's account by early May.
Our conversation about this matter occurred on a Thursday. I left India to return home on Friday. The following Monday, I received pictures via email that showed the footers being poured for the new addition! By that Friday, they had erected walls. In 4 weeks time, the entire structure had been expanded by 3 rooms and completely remodeled. I thought to myself: "We couldn't have the paperwork for this kind of project done in Tennessee that quickly!" The "new" building provides separate sleeping quarters for 25 boys and girls along with needed living space.
This kind of industry and stewardship on the part of our Indian partners motivates Barnabas Ministries to become more involved in those ministries. We look forward to expanding our role of encouraging, mentoring, and partnering with Indian pastors and believers.