Empowering communities through impactful programs, our nonprofit is dedicated to creating lasting positive change for those in need.
Earlier this year, the orphanage received complaints from its neighbors who are not in support of the work that the pastor and his team are doing there. Inspectors showed up on-site to seek out any fault they could, intending to shut down the orphanage. After an extensive look into the facilities and interrogating interviews with the children, the only “evidence” they could come up with was a Bible that was gifted to one of the girls from someone outside the orphanage. The inspectors claimed that the pastor and the team were indoctrinating the children, forcing them into the Christian faith. The next day, the team received a letter requiring them to make mandatory facility improvements. They were required to build a separate staired entrance to the girls dormitory, which is located on the second story of the church building, as well as a new restroom in the dorm to only be used by the girls. These extensive improvements were no small feat (or cost) and were commanded to be completed immediately to avoid closure. The inspectors' orders may have been a daunting task for the team to do on their own, but we serve a good God who is bigger (and who has deeper pockets!) God provided the funds for the orphanage to make the necessary changes and fast! But, it gets better. The inspectors came back to check the work that had been done, but this time they brought the mayor. The mayor holds a lot of authority and power in the local government, in other words, he has the final say. The streets were cleaned and prepared for his arrival. The team also prepared, by cooking a meal to bless and honor him. After they shared a meal, the mayor went to inspect the buildings and the new additions. Then he left without sharing his thoughts. The next day, the team received another letter but this time, one of approval. The mayor had seen everything and was pleased with the outcome of the building's changes. God is faithful. He is continuing to provide and prove His great plans will remain, even in the face of opposition. We are rejoicing with the team at the orphanage, over this victorious testimony! Click HERE to watch a tour of the new girls dormitory!
The pastor we are connected to and his wider community of local pastors have been able to open yet another church! The new church is located in a village called Rasapalayam, near the Malataru River, with a small community of fishermen. This is a huge testimony of God’s hand, making a way for the gospel to be spread and taught, despite the country's animosity towards Christianity. The pastors are excited to see this community come to know and be transformed by Jesus! See the photos below (faces blurred for privacy purposes)
God has opened an unexpected door for Gathering Table with a spot at a local shop in Old Town Clovis - The Collective 103. It is an opportunity to sell Spoon Rings and Honey (yes, local raw honey is now for sale!) as a way to support the ministry and a great way to promote upcoming Pop-Up Dinners to the community. Come check it out! Located at 453 Pollasky Ave #103, Clovis. Open 7 days a week from 11am-5pm.
Empowering communities through impactful programs, our nonprofit is dedicated to creating lasting positive change for those in need.