India with Jim

Now in London

2010-11-03T23:43:00.000+05:30

150 Year old Bridge-Vast River

Mr. Venketa Reddy owns the Royal Park hotel where we stay in Kakinada and is the highest elected official in the district. The hotel is outstanding and he is such a nice man. He had attended the official opening of the children’s home as the Government representative for that opening. The government owns a nice tract of land behind the church building that has no access from any direction. We are hoping to get the government to turn it over to the children’s home for it’s use and have made formal request for that. Mr. Reddy is an important factor in that. As the representative for the area, we are hoping he will exert his considerable influence to achieve that goal.
Also we paid the fees from our travel funds for opening a school there at the church building to begin next June.
We left Kakinada at 9:00 A.M. after saying goodbyes to everyone and headed for the airport. When we left Kakinada it was still raining and again rained on us most of the day. Water was over the road in many places and the flooding is widespread. Some rice is laid over by the water and will probably be lost to the farmers.
After a very wet drive to the airport in Rajamundry we encountered a problem we had more or less expected. The flights from Rajamundry to Hyderabad were cancelled due to the weather. The small planes that fly to RAJ are just not equipped to handle the heavy rains. Since our flights were cancelled, we had a lunch with the Rao family there in RAJ. We had put a back up plan in place so we could make it to our International flight from Hyderabad. Ricky Gootam and their driver drove us to on Hyderabad arriving at Rajiv Ghandi airport at 11:00 P.M. The drive from RAJ took us 9 plus hours of rough narrow roads with traffic you could not understand even if I tried to describe it. Just feature big trucks, cars, goats, scooters, bikes, etc. all trying to weave in and out passing each other for nearly 600 kilometers. I slammed on my “Back seat” brakes (not there, of course) so much my feet felt as if I had walked. We made a couple of stops along the way to walk a bit and bathroom breaks and were able to see a few places we had not seen before it got dark. Crossing the Godavari River and the Krishna River on the way, we got a look at vast waterways that are the life line of all of Southern India. Under British rule, the Godavari was diverted into what are really 12 river channels enabling irrigation to millions of wide spread acres of land area. We are grateful they were willing to drive us on what was a very LONG day!

"Water, Water Everywhere..."

Thankfully we made our flight to London. They have some little sleeping rooms in the airport but we don’t sleep well in them. It is better than the floor in the airport but you feel like your head hardly hits the pillow near midnight until the alarm goes off at 4:30 A.M. The security is so tight you must give plenty of time for getting checked in, through customs, and security. Once in the secure terminal, we were able to have coffee and an omelet before boarding.

Hindu Crematorium at Rajamundry

Many houses filled with water

We have now arrived in London for a short stopover before coming on home although a bit of a task getting here! Our flight to London was uneventful but long and we need some sleep! I will write more later about this great work and some random thoughts about the people involved in India. Stay tuned!

On our way home

2010-10-31T18:13:00.000+05:30

Thank you for making this work possible!

Sunday lunch in the Gootam home.

This will be the last post for a while since we are headed out early tomorrow to begin making our way home. We are supposed to fly out of Rajamundry but the small planes that fly out of that airport have been grounded for several days because of the weather. It is solid rain here and the outlook is the same. Ricky is taking us to the airport and if they cancel our flight he is going to drive us on to Hyderabad to get to our flights home. The big airport and the big planes are flying OK so hopefully we can make our connections. It is about a 9 hour drive but Ricky assures us the road is good and will be well above water. It makes for a hard day but we'll make the best of it. Ricky has a bunch of cartoon DVD's in their SUV and a player so we may watch cartoons all the way. :) We had a great Sunday service with the church in Kakinada and lunch with the Gootam family. I have truly enjoyed preaching to these people and know they appreciate it. They continue to be insistent that we come back next year (and every year) but that remains to be seen. I have no doubt that with the overwhelming success of this years lectures, next year will be even larger. It is wonderful for people to be so hungry for the Word of God! A lot of tears flow as we leave --- especially from the little girls who have become so attached to Elaine -- but we are anxious to get home. One little girl asked Elaine "will you be my mother" and you can imagine how difficult that is. She was not asking to come with us to the USA---just love me and care what happens to me like a mother would. I know of no one to be a better mother than Elaine. (I'm probably a little prejudiced) We are looking forward to the first Sunday "pot luck" at home---Asher, and being with our family there. You know how I am about first Sunday! I have so much I want to share with you and will make a movie about this work this year and see to it all who have supported our activities get a copy. I am also anxious to go and report to the congregations who have helped make this possible.

Even with the rain-Life goes on

One block from the church building

Saturday 10-30-2010

2010-10-30T18:30:00.000+05:30

I cannot begin to tell you how much respect I have for the wonderful people of India. I have found them to be intelligent, thoughtful, and open minded. There is no fooling them--they just want to know the truth and solidly build their lives on it. In our village work today there were 3 more baptisms. These people are spiritual people and when shown the teachings of one God and how to be His follower----well they just respond...and remain stedfast. We have been able to re-connect with so many we have seen in previous years. I am so impressed by the Christians here. They are truly dedicated to Christ. Their young people well versed in scripture and unfailingly faithful in spite of trying conditions and circumstances. They are an inspiration to me and I am humbled by their great faith. I wish you could meet each one of them. With God as our father, we are truly brothers and sisters in Christ.

Preaching in the Villages

I have explained to them I am but an insignificant small town preacher and am almost embarrassed at their reception of us is as if we were someone important. I think they know we love them and that they are the important ones. We have come 10,000 miles, halfway around the world not because we are important but because they are. Not because I am some "big name American" preacher sent to tell them what to do but a servant of Jesus Christ here because He loves and died for them. They listen and respond to the power of the Gospel. Elaine and I are ordinary people but we serve an extraordinary God. It is to Him any "glory" for this work belongs. What we do here is not for any personal acclaim but to bring precious people to the Savior of the world. In working with the hundreds of preachers and elders gathered here, I have reminded them that it is proper for them to be respected for what they do but the people must be converted to Jesus Christ not to them. They may respect us but they worship God---exactly as it should be. It is not about us, it's about Him. I have asked each of these hundreds of men to promise me personally that they will study hard and remain true to the scriptures. Every hand in the house went up and I am confident they will do as they have promised without wavering. We have talked about principles of preaching and doctrinal issues in depth and I have given them every ounce of energy and information I can. I know the association with each other in such large numbers has enthused them. So, hopefully, these lectureships have lifted their spirits and strengthened their resolve. It gives us such joy to be associated with them. To each of you who have financially supported this work and have kept us in your prayers---thank you! The God you and I serve has moved mightily here this week. The funds you have spent will bear fruit both here and in eternity. Here are a few more pictures.

A village congregation

The village building

Preacher training classes

Village church Leaders

Friday In the Villages

2010-10-29T20:27:00.000+05:30

We spent the day today visiting various village churches a couple of hours from Kakinada. I was a very nice day except it has rained all day. The rivers are full and the streets and roads don't drain well so there is a lot of water standing everywhere. There is a large river which starts in North central India which provides the irrigation and water for this whole end of the country. A British engineer devised a way and built 12 channels to divert the water all over instead of just one river. Each of those channels make our Mississippi look small. This is about the third day it has rained since we got here. It does not seem to deter any activity, the people just keep going---wet. Just when I think I have seen everything, something new comes up. Today we stopped to observe a group of men roasting a hog burning palm leaves right along side the road. I guess if you dug a pit to cook it it would fill with water!

The view out our hotel window

Preacher and Son

I met one preacher today who has been preaching the gospel in his village since 1981. The Blue River church in Kansas City built their building for them in 2004 and they have about 100 members. He lost his wife since the last time we were here and has had some serious health problems but is some better. His family has 4 generations living in that village and his son preaches as well. They have lot's of young people who are being well grounded in the Faith. I preached at another congregation composed mostly of women who have converted from...........You will know who I mean and they are faithful in spite of personal danger. Their families don't like it but they worship and work anyway. They have a good group with a good preacher and men who lead. We go to villages again tomorrow.

Wednesday Lectures

2010-10-27T17:49:00.001+05:30

The "JayKay" Ice cream man

Wednesday Lectures:

Preparing Lunch

Elaine and her Interpreter

We are again between services. We have finished the afternoon workshops and are awaiting our ride back to the building for the evening service. The pictures you see all have interesting stories. I don't know that you can read the caption on the ice cream mans cart but I just had to picture it. It says: "Jay Kay's Ice Cream." Since my initials are JK....well you get the idea. Of course these vendors move to where crowds are and they have obviously "hovered" here. Webought ice cream for all the children last night----such a treat to them. Bro. Gootam said teasingly to me this morning: "Jim Kelly has drawn the candy man, the ice cream man and the balloon man." The numbers are astonishing. Each person pays a 50 rupee registration (about a dollar) which entitles them to 3 meals a day and publications, afternoon tea..etc. They receive a ticket that allows them to obtain those things. One picture is of the ladies cutting onions and potatoes for the noon meal.

They have registered over 2500 people. They know there are more here than that since many local area people don't register but eat at home. None of us ever expected this kind of turnout! People from Orissa, Madras, and other places I cannot spell. Those are distances of 1200 kilometers away. It takes the people from Orissa two days to get here. The other two pictures are of me and my interpreter--Bro. Rao from SRIKAKULAM, (he has a school of preaching there) and Elaine and her interpreter who is the superintendent of schools here in Kakinada. (one of the Elder's wives.)

We know that this work is the result of so many people in the states who have made it possible financially. I do not have enough words to convey to you how grateful we are for your gracious contributions to this cause of Christ. Because of you, the Gospel is preached, orphan children helped, preachers encouraged, lives changed and souls saved. This is YOUR work. Thank God for you.

Jim and Bro Rao

Tuesday at the Lectureship

2010-10-26T17:31:00.000+05:30

"Preacher's wife to Preacher's wives"

Part of Elaine's Ladies Class

Arrived in a truck

Need some Rice?

It is Tuesday afternoon and we are taking a short break before the evening session. Again this afternoon Elaine had the women and I spoke to the men in a 2 hour program after lunch. The services this morning were great and the workshops profitable. So many people are here they spill out in to the street at times. Joshua told me today they are cooking 700 pounds of rice every day---Plus the sauces they put on the rice. It is hard to imagine but these cooks have 5 huge pots on big burners cooking rice from morning, well before daylight, the till evening meal is complete. One group arrived today--over 80 people who arrived in a big truck---like one of our grain or dump trucks. One of the pictures today is of them. We continue to do our best to communicate and encourage these people but I believe they probably are more encouragement to us than we to them. It is an amazing work and three more were baptized here today. Some good news, the preachers from Orissa state report that the persecution has slowed there. Several of those responsible for all the killing of christians and burning of churches and houses last year have been arrested, convicted and are in jail. Some have even died of incurable diseases and in accidents. Many who were persecuting these christians believe "you better not mess with christians and their God."! I am not sure I could sanction such but at least it has taken some pressure off the churches there. We have relished the day and know God is blessing our work together.

2010-10-25T21:30:00.000+05:30

Greetings, We just got in from Monday evening services. The crowds today were wonderful and packed in the building everywhere. The morning services were highlighted by the visit of a "Senator" from this region to again dedicate the children's home. We did more ribbon cutting with him and gave him a good tour of the facility. I preached this morning as did Bro. Rao from Rajamundry. We had a good visit with William Carey this evening--he is supported by the St. Louis congregation. Crowds were "Immense" at every service today. I had some 400 preachers in the two workshops this afternoon and Elaine had about 300+ women. Too many to count as they were on the top floor pressed down hallways and in classrooms.

Evening Service-Halfway up Aisle

With India Dignitaries

Morning services numbered 800-900, again almost impossible to count. They have over 1000 registered as of this evening with more coming. People are bedded down all over the grounds and throughout the building. We are tired but exhilarated at the wonderful response to the teaching of God's word. I have always felt that my best contribution to this lectureship was the preacher's workshops. Today just confirms for me that feeling. If I can in some small way lift up, encourage, and strengthen these men, then many will be reached because of their efforts. Our two hours together today was a wonderful experience. We have found out they use many of the materials Cathy Fuch's sends to them for the Asher church. From the publication we send and my CD's they get Ideas that help them prepare and preach. It is most rewarding to be with them. Keep us in your prayers....

Elaine and Kabita Cutting Ribbon

Br. Rao Translates

2010-10-24T15:36:00.008+05:30

After Sunday Worship

Dedication to God

Ribbon Cutting

SUNDAY:
October 24, 2010

The Old Children's Home

Ribbon Cutting

Children's Home Hallway

The power went out in the hotel this morning but came back on in time to get ready for worship. What a great day. I taught the teenagers class and Elaine the little ones and then the worship service. One young lady was baptized and then after morning services, we formally dedicated the children's home. Lot's of singing, prayers and tears of joy. Elaine cut the ribbon on one end with all the ladies and I cut the ribbon on the other end with all the men. This was the first time many in the congregation have seen it this close to completion. It is amazing. I have some "before and after" pictures in this post. The huge logs in the one picture have been cut and made into beautiful doors and window frames in the children's home. Malaysian teak milled, cut, sanded, and finished right here on the premises. Some of the workers and church members worked all night to make sure the lights worked and everything was clean and ready. A few minor things need to be completed and then they will move the children in. I wish all of you could have been here at this dedication.

At the Dedication

Remember, this is YOUR work and God is glorified in it. It is your contributions that have made it possible.

Logs for the Doors

There are already people here from as far as 400 miles away (In all directions) for the lectures and workshops and more are pouring in this afternoon as their services at home are complete. I will preach again at 7:30 this evening and then Monday every thing really gets going. God bless you for allowing us to be a part of this great work.

2010-10-24T15:27:00.002+05:30

Saturday was indeed a great day! We had the chance to tour the new children’s home and it is marvelous. It is so much improved from what these children have had it is like daylight and darkness. It is not quite complete but electricians got the lights wired in and on so out of town guests can sleep there during the lectures. They will fill the building sleeping in classrooms, auditorium, etc. through the week. Some will stay in homes of members here but there are just too many to accommodate. The new children’s home has a large study room for the children plus bathrooms, bedrooms and a room for the “warden.” Thats not a bad title here, it simply means director, houseparent or caretaker. The family who takes care of these children are real parents in the very best sense of that word. They really do a great job training, cooking, tutoring and loving these children.

The new building is bright and cheerful. It is equipped with plug-ins for computers and plenty of shelves for books, bedding, etc. No funds were available to them for hooking up computers so Elaine and I spent some of your money to get that done. Now we just have to find a few computers for their use. If they are to advance in this technological world of ours, they will be assisted greatly by being able to use a computer.

The church here has a young man coming Monday to go to work full time with the children’s home, a sort of “youth minister”. He will assist the warden and tutor the children. He has a degree in Education and plans are being made to start a school here for these children beginning next June. I have long felt that to be a vital thing to do. We have provided the funds to make the proper applications required by the government to begin that work. Your liberality in providing for our travel funds has allowed us to do so much more this time than just get here and speak.

The next door building is for sale and would be a wonderful situation to house such a school but things are very expensive here. I wish I knew some really wealthy person capable of providing the $250,000 to buy it, but I don’t. I know they are out there and some would be willing, and I would not be hesitant to ask, I just don’t have the acquaintance. I know God moves in the hearts and lives of His people so it may happen in spite of my lack of faith.

We preached in a remote village last night arriving back at the hotel about 11:15 PM. We have rested well and are prepared to preach at two services here today. This afternoon Elaine and I are to participate in the dedication services for this new children’s home and do the “ribbon Cutting” officially opening it. A similar “political” event is to be on Monday with many local dignitaries attending. Bro. Gootam says today we open it to the Glory of God and tomorrow we show it to the rest of the community. Today we give thanks to God, tomorrow we show His graciousness to the world.

It is a great facility and we are thankful to be allowed to have a small part in making it happen. So many of you individually, and numerous churches small and large, have made this happen. This work to the saving of souls is YOUR work! You are proven people of God and your contributions and sacrifices are the reason all this is being done. God bless us all in His service!

2010-10-21T19:15:00.007+05:30

From Rome to Kakinada

After leaving Rome we arrived in Kakinada at 11:00 Thursday morning---27 hours and 3 airports later. We "crashed" for a few hours here in the hotel and will try to get acclimated to the time as our work gets going tomorrow. The lectureship actually begins on Monday but I preach several times until then in villages and then with the Savatyana congregation in Kakinada Sunday. People are already gathering here for the lecturship. Some are being housed in the new 3rd floor of the church building which will be the children's home when finished. The many who gather here from all over this area eat and sleep wherever they can and it will be a blessing to at least have a roof over their heads.

The purpose of our short stay in Rome was to try to better learn the events surrounding the lives of those people we know from the New Testament. I wanted to see the "real deal", where Paul walked in Rome ...the Forum, Senate, the house of Augustus Caesar, and all those things from the first century. That was, indeed, awesome. With all the hub-bub of modern Rome all around, it takes a great deal of focus--concentration, to imagine how it would have been when Paul walked those stones. The colosseum, houses of the Caesars, etc. are impressive. Since Jesus and the Apostles all lived and died under Roman rule, seeing first hand the history involved is a good experience.

Our impressions of Rome are mixed, some good, some bad. It did not help, that in spite of every precaution we could think of, we lost about $450 to the pickpockets on the subway. That certainly cast a dark shadow over our time there.

After our wonderful time of worship with our brethren in Rome, we were headed back to our hotel when I caught the hand of one who had my wallet, while an accomplish got a pouch with our EURO's in it from the other side. The train door closed and they were gone. Fortunately, The wallet I retained was the one with ID's and credit cards so all we lost was cash for which we are thankful. The next day another such attempt was made--I caught that one too, backed her into a corner on the train, and she fearfully ran out the door at the next stop. These are not isolated but prolific incidents giving Rome a very bad reputation--and well deserved. The "Poliza" just smile and almost make you feel it was you fault and you should have prepared better. I was ready to leave. I was determined to establish a website: "dontgotorome.com." I have traveled all over the world and never really felt fearful even though we have encountered some difficult circumstances. I was constantly on edge in Rome.

However, as is our nature, we try to make the best of whatever, "accentuate the positive" and move on. We had planned to go to Pompei on a one day trip but the loss of those funds prohibited that, so we used our bus and train passes (which we had re-purchased since they got those too) and just went to various places we would not have seen otherwise.

We also made the obligatory trip to the Vatican while there. The museum there is full of artifacts, art, etc. and is one of the largest in the world. The work of Michelangelo, Rafael, and the things of art, architecture, and history gathered there are worth seeing.

Respectfully however, I was appalled. The entire edifice with it's pomp and ostentatious excess has very little ---- if anything----to do with the teachings of our Lord. It's not about honoring the Christ but making monuments to men. I found it very little different than the Idolatry of India. There was no honor to God, just monuments to men. Peter would be disgusted at a statue of himself with a foot sticking out being touched and kissed as if some good luck charm. "Stand up, I myself am but a man." I can't write enough here about all the numerous false foolishness seen in those halls. (See recordings I will make of future sermons!) Undeniably beautiful art and architecture but nothing close to the church Jesus established. Doors through whom you walk to obtain forgiveness of sin "past, present, and future"? Where in the world would one find such in the teaching of scripture. Paintings of Jesus---in Rome---(He never was there) handing the "keys of the kingdom" to Peter. Man's inventions---not supported by fact or scripture --- are simply bald faced, deceptive, unfounded, devious, destructive LIES! Such is found everywhere!

So, you see, while it was a valuable learning experience, I am not very fond of Rome. We are glad to be in India again.

2010-10-16T23:53:00.005+05:30

Elaine and I have stopped a few days in Rome on the way to India. The doctors do not want me flying the full 30 plus hours without breaks in between. We decided that since we had to stop somewhere, we would like to explore the area where the Apostle Paul spent the last few years of his life. The long flights take there toll so we got in late yesterday afternoon and slept until 8:30 this morning. We walked the area of ancient Rome and walked on stone streets Paul would have walked, original to the time. Much archeological excavation has been done in the area and the history information is vast. I have no interest in the extravagances and excesses of modern day Rome, but the ancient buildings, streets, etc. are impressive. Roman rulers Augustus Caesar to Nero carry much significance to me. Since Paul was here, under house arrest, writings some of the Epistles, I am grateful to see some of these places. We will worship with one of the VIALE JONIO church here in Rome tomorrow. We will spend some time Monday with Vittorio Vitalone who preaches there and his family. We will be here until Tuesday, and then another long overnight flight to India. We land at 4 in the morning in Hyderabad and then fly out at 10:30 to Rajamundry. Ricky Gootam will pick us up there and I am sure I will begin preaching in villages immediately.

2010-10-14T15:37:00.000+05:30

Well, Lord willing, by the time you read this we will be on our way. Departing Thursday afternoon, 14 October, we are headed to the airport to fly to India for the third time. We are so thankful God has given us the opportunity to do this work.

I am very aware of being only one small part of the great work going on in India. It is such a privilege to preach God’s word to people so eager to hear it. There are great works going on all over India; The Gootam group in Kakinada; The Clayton-Hall group in Hyderabad; Jim Waldon in Shillong and others of which we’re not aware. Indeed, the Master’s words, “the fields are ready for harvest” is resoundingly a description of India in our day. Luke in Acts 6:7 wrote; “And the Word of God increased; & the number of the disciples multiplied…” Another perfect description of India.

My friend Jerry Edwards (from the Clayton-Hall Team) wrote recently: “I found 4 examples of explosive church growth: 1) New Testament times, 2) the Restoration Movement in the USA (beginning about 1790), 3) Nigeria in the last century—& 4) in India today..... To see the power of the Gospel exhibited this way is a humbling experience. In my lifetime, I have not seen or heard of ANYTHING that even remotely compares with what is happening in India today! This kind of evangelistic growth was the dream of my teachers in college, but they had never seen anything of this magnitude. They were harking back to the days of the 40’s, 50’s & 60’s, when churches of Christ were the fastest growing religious group in America. However, except for the work in Nigeria in the recent past, it is still nothing like what is happening in India now. We dreamed about explosive growth of the church & worldwide evangelism in our generation, but we never saw consistent growth of this magnitude. Instead, we have seen the relative number of Christians reduced in comparison with the population growth of the USA. On the other hand, the growth of the church in India is phenomenal.” He is absolutely on target.

Personally, the most rewarding part of what I do in India is the workshops with the native preachers attending the Lectureship. I get to spend several hours each afternoon teaching, encouraging, and discussing the scriptures with them. I am informed that they are expecting preachers from 1000+ congregations to be gathered this year. Hopefully, I can in some small way help them better do the task they have before them. If I can strengthen these men, encourage them in their work, they can impact the lives of thousands.

Elaine’s role is expanded this year as she works with the preacher’s wives and other women attending as well as with the children. She constantly reminds us: “I am not a public speaker” but I can tell you this; although she may not have the training nor experience of those of us who have stood in pulpits for years, she has a lot to say! I have seen three of the lessons she is preparing to use, and they are great and will be helpful. People tend to expect more of “the preachers wife” than other christian women. In any country they face some unusual responsibilities as well as fulfill great opportunities. India women---particularly preachers wives---face the normal and also some unique challenges.They are so grateful to have someone talk directly with them encouraging them in their lives. Having been there before, she has prepared herself with a better knowledge of how to speak to their needs. For years I have said; “There are no great churches without great christian women.” There are some great christian women serving with some great christian men in India.

We are anxious to see the building progress of the children’s home and to see this inspirational group of children. We are still raising funds for that effort and have had many friends take the challenge of contributing to complete this facility. We have just asked that everyone who can to send just $50. Thus 500 of us can complete it.

Please know we thank God for you and anything accomplished by what we do is your work as well. All who contribute to this work are partners with us (Rom. 10:13-15). We cannot “go” with the Gospel message unless you “send”. Your financial help is a major part of this work. We are simply your instruments in the spread of the gospel. We are thankful for all who have contributed to our work.

Please keep us in your prayers.

On our Way again

2010-09-22T00:56:00.002+05:30

Elaine and I have just returned from a gospel meeting in Las, Vegas, NV. We enjoyed a great time with the Bright Angel church in Las Vegas. I had to laugh---some of my friends I play golf with said: "You are going to Las Vegas to PREACH?!!" Yes and the Bright Angel church there is strong and we had a wonderful meeting. We are to schedule another time with them in the spring of 2011.

We leave for India October 14 to attend and speak at the Lectureship. The theme this year is "You Can Be Sure." I am to speak several times daily and look forward to again participate in the preacher workshops. I will begin posting again at least weekly and then more often as we arrive in India. We are anxious to see the progress of the building of the orphans home there in Kakinada. Elaine and I have taken it on ourselves to raise the funds to finish this children's home. EVERY Member at our home congregation has contributed and we need your help to finish the job. We are contacting our friends confident that together we will complete this task. We have contacted numerous ones, friends, neighbors, our doctors--just everybody we can and we are asking for your help. If 500 of us just send $50--not much of a burden to most---we can complete the home for these children. (Yes, Elaine and I have sent ours!) There are just not 500 of us! Please send all you can to: Asher church of Christ - India Children's home; P.O. Box 37, Asher, OK, OK 74826 The churches in Asher, St. Louis, Stratford, and Muskogee have already contributed sufficient funds to cover our personal expenses for the lectureship, so now we can raise the money for the home. The members of the Bright Angel church responded to this need very liberally which was such an inspiration to us since we did not go there to raise money--just to preach. I love that church for it's spirit and faithfulness to the Lord. I will be encouraged by their kindness and receptiveness for a long time! Keep us in your prayers!

A Personal Letter from Jim

2009-12-24T01:49:00.002+05:30

As usual, I am thinking about India. I often just randomly think about God's work in India and simply must write. I hope you will read all of this and receive it in the spirit it is given. I Love the Lord and His Church and simply want to go to heaven and take as many people with me as I can. I always come home from India with a burden on my heart to help people so intent on knowing the truth. My prayer is that as long as I have breath, the Lord won't let the fire go out!

I have many thoughts and observations from these couple of years of intense work. In that time I have seen devout dedication to the word of God. I have seen that in people before, but never have I seen it from so many and permeating the whole church. In America 100% of God’s people are willing.... 10% willing to do the work and 90% willing to let them.

Nowhere else in my experience have people traveled long distances to sleep on a concrete floors to have the opportunity to hear the Gospel preached. People sleeping in church buildings--on the floor--so they could hear word of God---with rice and curry flavoring to eat, while people in my country huddle in a lumber yard of empty seats singing “Revive us Again”

Many people ride all night on cramped trains to get to these lectures. I have met men who rode on such trains for 10-12-14 hours to get to lectures on Preaching, then eagerly listen all day hungering for more. Preachers pleading with me to send materials to help them teach the word in there areas.

I have watched men reverently waiting on the table----barefoot. Old ladies bent over from years of labor climbing, crawling on all fours, up two long flights of stairs to get to worship. Never have I seen more commitment to the God of creation and His church than here in India. The opportunities are myriad and the need is massive.

I listened to large groups of preachers singing enthusiastically in praise to God.

(I had them translate the song into English so I would know what they were singing)

The words went like this:

“I’M GOING TO PREACH THE GOOD NEWS, I’ll dwell on truth--In season--off season.

Even if the world disowns me and turns against me..

I’M GOING TO PREACH THE GOOD NEWS.

If my own people don’t let me in and my own people turn against me---

I’M GOING TO PREACH THE GOOD NEWS.

If my parents and brothers kick me out of the house..

I’LL STAY IN JESUS WORD.

Even if threatened with death and become a martyr like Stephen

I WILL STAY AND PREACH THE TRUTH.

I will go forward and save souls for Christ...I’ll preach ‘till the end.”

The dedication of these men is impressive and certainly uplifting. I have said many times that I went to India to teach and learned more from them than they did from me.

While the economy of the USA is suffering, we are still the most blessed nation in the world and are obligated to help. Bibles are needed in India, funds to continue TV, Radio, correspondence courses, and help in support of the care and teaching of these orphan children is urgent. The doors for the cause of Christ are open and we simply must walk through them. Anyone who has been there very much and can’t get excited about this great work is either blind, deaf, dumb or dead!

We need to build this children’s home NOW not a year or two from now when all the funds are completely collected. Cost of concrete is down by almost half and our money will go farther now than later. It would be foolish to wait! The most fortunate children in india are in that orphanage and others like it. They are taught the word of God daily and are cared for by loving people sacrificing much of their own lives to provide their needs. One song the children sing imparts great meaning. “If I have the strength of Samson, The faith of Abraham, The patience of Job, The wisdom of Solomon, if I could sing like David...and had all the riches in the world....without Christ I am a “Zero.” I wish you could hear them and see all the motions that go with that little song.

I wonder sometimes if we in America even have any faith in God at all. We calculate our budgets, what our people earn and how much our contribution is and never step out on faith and let God work. We deny requests for help so easily we don’t even want people to come and tell us of their work. Maybe we are afraid we might WANT to make some sacrifice for the cause of Christ. Then maybe we just don’t care. It soothes our conscience to shuffle off requests for help to the “mission committee” who decides “It can’t be done.” God save us from Ten Spies Mentality and renew in us the spirit of Joshua and Caleb. We want to wait until WE can see the way to do a task rather than saying...”God we’re going to do as you want us to do and we trust you to provide a way.” We Can’t but God can! Tell me---just tell me---where is the power of God in our churches? You don’t need God to do the things we are doing just a few liberal donors or a couple of wealthy people.

The business of the church is to demonstrate God. But if we are truthful with ourselves, we are operating by the same power that drives the civic club or the United Way. There is something wrong with our Christianity when we have to beg most of our crowd to come to church to hear about it. That Christianity is either not what it is supposed to be or Christians had been inoculated with a mild form of the faith and Immunized against the real thing. It is time to pray, “Lord, we will have the real thing or nothing.” Our Lord said it was better to be cold than lukewarm. It simply is too late for “business as usual.” There is no time for dull, dry programs carried on by promotions and performances easily explained on ordinary grounds. It is time we relied on the power of God.

Maybe I am too harsh--I don’t mean to be....Maybe I am wrong.....I don’t think so. Am I a little disgusted...yes, I guess I am. It seems to me we have become more concerned about buildings and budgets and appearances rather than the spread of the Gospel. I don’t care about your new parking lot or remodel project. We simply cannot preach a dynamite gospel and live firecracker lives.

I’d rather see your money save souls. We are fooling ourselves spending millions on brick and mortar and neglecting flesh and blood eternal souls. I have learned I can preach under a tree or in a hut or house and people who really want to know will listen.

Some want to “americanize” these churches in India and that is also ignorance. The Gospel is indeed the same but things are just different. What may work in America doesn’t work there. Nobody wears a white shirt and tie with sport coat to preach and yet they worship reverently. Clean and neat---yes---reverent and respectful, yes....but to think they must conform to our way’s is foolish futility. I want to see them made in the mold of Christ not the mold of middle America. I want them to continue to really worship and pray and learn without becoming ritualistic and appearance oriented.

To impose our cultural standards on them just doesn’t work. Who would want to anyway? For the most part, they are more modest, more respectful and more dedicated to God that most people warming pews in American churches.

They are feeling all the negative impact of our culture. Those who have TV in India are being bombarded with our Hollywood movies and there own “Bollywood.” This influence has been quite successful in bringing Sodom and Gomorra into their living rooms and the culture is showing the effects of that.

And yet their determination to follow Jesus is undeterred.

They need our help and support and certainly deserve it. Any help you can give --- no amount is too small. Please Help.

His Servant.......Jim Kelly

2009-12-11T02:23:00.003+05:30

We are in London today and have been able to see the many Biblical Times artifacts in the British Museum and Library. What a thrill to be able to see the manuscripts from which the King James bible was translated.... artifacts from the time and region of Abraham, David, and Solomon. The night before we left India, the services included some Birthdays for the little kids and Bro Gootam. Also Elaine passed out gifts we had bought for them. We bought some practical things (like underwear) instead of toys and trinkets. Here are a few pictures. Also a picture on the day we were leaving with Bro. Gootam and Myself next to the outgoing delivery of graded correspondence courses for that one day. These course have led the the conversion of thousands in India. People love to read and learn and are so receptive to the gospel. It takes a full time staff just mailing, grading, and returning courses. We can't wait to talk to all of you personally of these experiences.

2009-12-08T18:25:00.003+05:30

We are in Hyderabad on our way home. We are thankful to be here. The violence has escalated and waned by the day. We were glad they started their foolishness before we got to Khamaam. The roads are blocked and we would probably been days getting here--if at all! We had to cancel the preachers workshop for Monday in Khamaam and village meetings up the road on Tuesday. Because we had to fly rather than drive, we have a LONG layover here but have rented a room in a hostel here in the airport. The room is only 10X12 but has a bed, bathroom, TV and internet hookup. It is wall to wall! It has no room for our luggage so they store that for you but it is clean and nice--just small. We are glad to have it....it would have been tough staying 16 hours out in the airport. We get a 4:30 wakeup call for a 7:45 flight out. Our last couple of days have been busy and rewarding. They want us to come back every year but I don't know about that. They are to publish my sermons in Telugu again this year, one per month in their monthly magazine. I am humbled by such an opportunity as we have had here inn India and thank God he has used us to His Glory. Elaine says we are doing nothing until after the first of the year when we get home---no reports --nothing---just chill for a while. We are both tired but happy we have been able in some small way to help these people. I will contact all my support groups to make reports shortly. I have posted here a couple of pictures of some of our work. Th one is of one of the preachers homes and the other is some of the preachers in the workshop in Narsipatnam. God bless us all in His service.

Monday-Preparing for home

2009-12-07T08:06:00.004+05:30

Since our preacher workshop was canceled for today, we have some time to shop for a few things for the kids, visit with the Gootams and get stuff ready to come home. We do have services tonight, but other than that it is an easy day. Actually just one sermon today makes it a very easy day. I thought this was a special service but really just a part of weekly routine. The church here meets for services on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday nights as well as on the Lord's day. It seems they would rather worship, study, and fellowship with the saints than watch TV! What a revolutionary concept! We enjoyed a fine meal prepared by Sudeepa and Kabita at the Gootam home last evening. They are both wonderful cooks as are most Indian women, I am told. We really enjoyed the evening. The pictures are of Bro. and Sis. Gootam in the office at the church building. The Gootam family have been the moving force for the spread of the gospel in India for many years. The number of people that have been led to the Lord is unable to be measured. The church is teaching on TV and Radio in this region every day and the correspondence courses flow out of here in massive amounts. Since we leave here EARLY in the morning to drive to Rajamundry for the flight to Hyderabad, I may not get to post again for a few days. I want to write some impressions I have about this work and this country later but it may have to wait until we get home. I may try to write when in Hyderabad airport for our 16 hour layover but it may be later. I hope those of you reading this have been informed and enjoyed knowing about this work. Pray for the success of this work in India.

2009-12-06T17:23:00.003+05:30

Hello, This is Elaine this time.

I just wanted to let you know about some of the things I have been doing during down time. I have spent a lot of time with the children. I have asked questions and learned a lot about how things are here. The number of children has grown so much that the older ones, both boys and girls, sleep in the church building on the cement floor. The others are in the two-room children's home. These two rooms can't be more than 12x12. There are so many children that they must sleep on top of each other because there is not enough room for them to sit down. Forget about stretching out. The tailor who watches over the children just finished making uniforms for all the children. They looked very nice. The rest of their clothes lacked buttons, zippers and rears of jeans were out of the boys, these children don't have underwear either. I was thinking that if only 70 people adopted a child, or even two people split one, for about $30.00 one could buy a complete outfit for a child. So if you felt real generous and were able to afford - say - $100.00 a year, you could clothe a child, buy shoes, underwear, belts or bangles for one child. These children ask for nothing and are so thankful for what they have, it breaks your heart.

I went with Sudeepa and Kabieta shopping Saturday. I wanted to buy some things for the girls hair and some bangles. We gave these to the girls Sunday. Sudeepa picked out some and handed them to the girls. They did not pick a color or anything, and the bangles on over half of the girls were to small. They smiled, shook my hand, and said a grateful thank you. They couldn't even get the bangles on because they were to small, but they were so proud to receive a gift. I am going to get some larger bangles Monday. They are taught the responsibility of supporting the Lord's work and on Sunday when the collection is taken, they put in some small something from meager allowances they receive. They could buy a candy bar or something but choose to give to the Lord. Reminds you of Jesus story of the widows mite and makes one ashamed not to do more.

I asked if the girls had a place to put their personal things. I was told that they each have a little box for personal items. They seldom use them, because some of the boys (with hard backgrounds) will destroy their things. If they want to protect something, they can give it to the tailor or his wife. They live in the room next to the children. They will keep it for them.

I know I go on and on about the conditions at the orphans, but it is so sad. A preacher from the Memphis school of Preaching, that was here for the lectureship was really good with the children. Stephen, the preacher, said that if he could get 15 churches to give $2000.00 each or 30 churches to give $1000.00 each, the Gootam's could build the third story on the church building. This means more (and larger) rooms for the children and a couple of real bathrooms (with showers) for the children. Please pray for these things to happen. If you know of any church who could afford to help, please notify them. Joshua says that it will probably take them several years to raise enough money to build the third story for the children. Again I say only $1000.00 - 30 churches. $100.00 a year for a child. Pray - the lord will answer!.

Love Elaine

Sunday in Kakinada

2009-12-06T16:32:00.005+05:30

It is Sunday afternoon in Kakinada and we are waiting to go to the Gootam home to visit with them and have dinner. We had a great service this morning with a full auditorium as is normal here. We will leave here with mixed emotions, ready to be home but wishing we could do more. As they thanked us for coming today Bro. Gootam again said: "If I could keep him....I would." Makes me feel good anyway. We are anxious to be home. Elaine says Charlie Grace is missing her granny....I think it is the other way around!

A bit of bad news for our work here. The trip Monday to teach preachers at Khamaam has been canceled due to some violence there. A group supporting a separate state in that area have disrupted all activity in the area, blocking highways and attacking people and property. Much damage has been done and no one knows about how much loss of life. We are informed it is just not safe to go. All the roads we would take to get us there are blocked anyway. I am disappointed and I know the 75-80 preachers who planned to be there that day are also but it is not to be. Some of them have to travel quite a ways and may already be on route. We pray for their safety. This country is so divided into factions -political---social---and religious, that something is always "stirring" and often "erupts." It makes us realize the urgency of the preaching of the gospel through out the World. The ONLY answer to this life and the life hereafter is Jesus Christ.

We were originally going to stay Monday night with the preacher in Khamaam and then preach in some villages on the way to Hyderabad on Tuesday but now will not be able to do that. We have arranged to fly out of Rajamundry Tuesday instead of driving on through that area. That gives us an extended waiting period for our flights out of Hyderabad but should be much safer. We are hoping that the uprising does not spread to Hyderabad as there is some disruption there also. At least we do not even have to leave the sirport.

The brethren here have arranged a special service of the Kakinada church Monday night and have asked me to speak. We will pray a lot for peace in India. I include in this posting, a picture of Elders, Deacons, and preachers of the Kaninada church. Also other pictures of preachers workshops, etc. Pray for our work here and for peace in India.......His Servants; Jim and Elaine

2009-12-03T13:37:00.005+05:30

This is the third day of the lectures and the rest of the "team" has returned to the states. I will preach 3 times each day today and Friday.and work with the preachers in the afternoon. That has been what I have been doing each day. Some of the native preachers fill in where the others from the states have been preaching. The pictures above are of Billy Bland, Dean of the Memphis School of preaching, with Brother Rao from up north, close to Orissa and of prayer with 4 people about to be baptized. Saturday we are going about 2 hours north to teach preachers in an all day workshop. I will teach and Ricky will translate. I have really enjoyed the time with these preachers. They are so dedicated and I admire them so much. It is very humbling to have them so receptive to what I am trying to communicate to them. They get a great deal of Bible training but very little in practical teaching on how to prepare and communicate--how to preach, so they have been so glad to get some help there. I have been teaching "Jesus Christ---Master teacher--His methods and Content."

One of the group from Memphis had to go the the hospital yesterday with severe abdominal distress. It turned out to be just a bacterial infection from something he ate. Every one was afraid he might have malaria since he had 64 mosquito bites from a few nights before! But he's fine and flew out with the rest this morning. We continue to try to help this work all we can in any way we can. I have also included a picture of a house being built across from the church building here in Kakinada. Notice, it is all done by hand. Women carrying concrete from a small mixer to the men working it building the house. Pray for the success of our work.

The Lectureship

2009-12-02T08:08:00.003+05:30

It is Wednesday morning and we are preparing to leave the hotel for the lectureship. It was a busy day yesterday with continuous services from 10 AM until 9PM. The schedule is the same today with the exception of only 2 speakers at the 6:30PM service instead of three. Bro. Billy Bland, Dean of the Memphis School of Preaching and I will speak at the evening service. We both also speak at the 10:00 AM service and then I work with preachers this afternoon. I am putting some pictures in of the children from the orphans home singing yesterday. They proudly were wearing all new clothes made by the tailor who supervises the children's home. They looked great and you could tell they loved it. Elaine has again decided to adopt! Really we know that is impossible, but she has become so close to the little girl sitting next to her, it is hard to leave them. They are so well trained and well disciplined and study from God's word

with vigor. I hope you enjoy the pictures. Pray for the success of our work.

Lectureship Starts Today

2009-12-01T07:57:00.005+05:30

It's Tuesday morning as I write this and we are preparing to go to the first day of the lectureship. I will speak 3 times today Morning, afternoon and evening. Several other speakers will also be speaking in these all day events. Sunday afternoon we took the children to a park near the orphanage. It (like most others here) is a Hindu park. We drew a lot of spectators as the children played "Red Rover" and threw cricket balls and kicked soccer balls, mainly with Steven Sutton from Tennessee and Art Wilson from Georgia. Yesterday we spent the day preaching in "villages". it is hard to convey what a village is in India. The population is so great they are not like our little villages in the USA but are composed of many thousands of people. We also went to the shelter for homeless widows (mostly elderly) here in Kakinada. I spoke to them using Joshua 13 and 14 about Caleb thriving at 85 years old. I hope words of encouragement help in some small way.

The village church in ......some name to long for me to spell or remember....was jammed full, the women sitting inside and the men outside. They have about 80 children in bible studies weekly and do a great work. They are supported by a church in Alabama. The native preach

er there has been working in the community for 35 years. It is a great, faithful, church. Pray for the success of our work and the spread of the gospel in India.

In Rajamundry

2009-11-28T17:58:00.012+05:30

We had a very rewarding day. After being up all night--flying in and waiting to go out --we had a great day. Ricky, Sudeepa, and Justin met us at the airport in RAJAMUNDRY and we went to Brother Rao's home (and orphanage) for lunch. Sister Rao is SOME cook! Chicken curry---"Chicken Fry" Rice and whole boiled eggs cooked with some kind of crust on them---Man they are good! From there we went to a meeting with Brother William Carey. The older lady standing next to brother Carey (In the Orange Sari) is the widow of the preacher who started this congregation many years ago.

We had a worship service with some of his congregation and got to spend some time with them. This was starting at 1:00 Saturday afternoon but still a good group gathered. That is typical of India. People here will gather for study or preaching about anytime--just tell them where and when and many will come. After preaching a while (Me preaching--Ricky translating) we took some time to just meet them and talk. As ususal, they honored us with the flower Leis'. We always honor some of the children before we go by giving them the flowers. That is unusual but they really love it. This Rajamundry church meets on Sunday morning for Bible classes and worship and Friday nights for Bible training. Bro. Carey is teaching at a school of preaching which maintains an enrollment of about 20 students year round. I believe he is doing a good work. We will sack out early tonight and try to catch up on some sleep.

We both could hardly stay awake on the drive from Rajamundry. The group from Memphis School of Preaching and the other speakers have been here a couple of days already, preaching in the villages. I preach at 10:00 in the morning in Kakinada, a preacher school Monday and the lectureship begins Tuesday.

Finally in India

2009-11-28T06:17:00.006+05:30

Well, We are in India. We left London at 2:00 Friday afternoon and arrived in Hyderabad at 5:00 AM Saturday Morning. We are sitting in the terminal now awaiting 7:30 to check in and fly on to Rajamundry. There we meet with William Carey and speak at the church there before driving on to Kakinada. I will speak at the church in Kakinada Sunday morning.

The Lord moves in mysterious ways! We travel the most economical way but the 10 hour flight from London was totally full and they upgraded us to "Business Class" Full recliners for seats and as fine a couple of meals as in any fancy restaurant! British Airways truly is the best I have ever flown anywhere, anytime! Neither one of us got much sleep but at least we rested much better, being able to lay down and stretch out, than we would have in coach. I told Elaine, the Lord gave us that blessing knowing I must be rested to do the task I must begin immediately. She is laying down right now trying to rest a little more. The loss of sleep is harder on her than on me and right now I feel OK. I know by the time we do the job before us today and drive 3 hours to Kakinada we will both be exhausted. Early BEDTIME!

I will shower here in the airport shortly and change into my "work" clothes.

We got to see a few things in London while taking the doctor recommended break. Westminster Abbey is amazing as is the Tower of London. Transportation in London is a Zoo. Even the subway system meant lugging those 4 heavy suitcases up and down numerous stairs to get to our hotel.It was good to break up the flights into two "legs" anywa

Continue to keep us in your prayers. We know the Lord is with us and we are more aware of His presence in our lives and our need for His help and guidance when we undertake something like this. God bless us all ion His service...Jim and Elaine...

2009-11-24T04:23:00.003+05:30

Well, we are on our way. I am posting this as we "go out the door" for the airport. Elaine tried to "pack" the little granddaughter next door but they would't let her! We will miss everybody here but we are so grateful for the God given opportunity to make this journey and with His guidance it will be productive to His glory. We are as ready as we can be and just put the rest in His hands. Keep us in your prayers.

Ricky and Family at the Kelly's

2009-11-20T19:36:00.003+05:30

Just days away now and things are moving rapidly. Ricky and Sudeepa and Justin have been staying with us a few days while speaking around the States on the work in Kakinada. They have been raising money for the orphanage there and now have returned home. We really enjoyed having them and look forward to our work together. Lord willing, we will be at their place in a few days.

2009-11-13T03:41:00.003+05:30

We are leaving shortly and want all of you to keep us in your prayers. Here is a look at our schedule: We leave at 2:05 Tuesday and Return Home on Dec. 12 at 7:00 P.M. During those times we are scheduled very heavily so keep us in your prayers.

I will try to keep some postings here on the BLOG. Our time is pretty full, so I don't know if we will be able to do so daily, but will try.

GOING BACK

2009-01-15T21:33:00.007+05:30

We have been invited to return to India and again speak at the lectureship in Kakinada December 1-4, 2009. In addition to the lectures, it is requested I teach in 3 additional all day preacher workshops. Our key supporters have encouraged us to take advantage of this opportunity, so, Lord Willing, we will again make the trip in 2009.

I am now in the process of reporting to the churches and individuals who make this work possible. I will complete those reports by the end of February. Reports have already been made to the churches in Asher and St. Louis, OK. and will be at Stratford, OK on February 8 and the Westside church in Muskogee, OK, February 22. We are beginning to get ready for the 2009 trip. Since we have been there already and know what to expect and what is expected of us, we should be even more successful. We appreciate your prayers, support and encouragement.

"KELLYGRAM"

2008-12-17T23:41:00.002+05:30

We arrived home safely at about 9:00 P.M. Tuesday night. We are tired but glad to be home. It is so nice to turn the tap and have drinkable water, to sleep in your own bed, to see family and enjoy our wood stove in the Oklahoma cold weather. We thank God for a beneficial trip, a safe journey and for all YOUR support.

On Our Way

2008-12-15T18:19:00.002+05:30

Well, we are packed and ready to go to the airport. It's a few hours yet but soon. We are ready to be home but have truly been blessed by our time here. To all of you who have helped send us, THANK YOU. Anything we have been able to do in helping this work is because of your generosity. We could not have done this without all your help and prayers. I have been invited to speak again at the lectureships December 1-4, 2009. I don't know about that but we'll see. Raising funding for myself is not something I do well, but we could not do any of this without it. If those who oversee our work and those who contribute to it choose for us to come again... well, we will see. Right now we are ready to be home. While it has been thrilling for us to participate in the spread of the gospel in India, it has been very strenuous as well. We dread that long flight but anxious to get started. I don't fit well in airline seats! But, we would not trade this experience for anything. We have really "connected" not only with the American missionaries here but particularly with the native preachers. I spent hours talking and encouraging them when not speaking somewhere. We discussed scripture, the church in America, and they felt free to discuss anything with me.

I was really miffed to have to try to explain things like: "Why are some churches in America turning to instrumental music." My only explanation is that some preachers and some elderships have chosen to do things not authorized in scripture. I assure you, the average Indian preacher is better grounded than such preachers and elders. They KNOW BETTER and you will not fool them into worship in a way which is an abomination to the Lord. I wish some of them could come and preach to such churches! Believe me, they would be kind, but would take such false teaching APART! They just don't understand such apostasy---- well I don't either. It is just that some seem to not respect the authority of scripture. And NO, I won't apologize for my thinking about those who have taken the church down that road. THEY KNOW it's in opposition to the will of God and have done it anyway......

Thats enough soapbox. We love you all and look forward to seeing and reporting personally about all you have made possible. I'm sure I will talk too long! God bless us all in His service.

Bidar and Back

2008-12-14T20:25:00.007+05:30

We traveled Saturday morning about 3 hours north of Hyderabad to the city of Bidar, India, a city of 500,000 people. I taught preachers all afternoon and Elaine taught the ladies-- many also preachers wives. The daughter of one of the preachers translated for her. These are amazingly intelligent people. One of my translators can TRANSLATE in 5 different languages and is FLUENT in 8 languages. Saturday night I preached at 7:00 and at 8:30 in two different congregations in Bidar. Then Sunday morning I preached for one congregation at 10:30 then at another at 12:30. We really enjoyed this last or our preaching appointments in India. There were all the members of that congregation and 8 preachers and their groups from some surrounding villages. The building was packed and we really enjoyed them all. We observed the Lord's Supper there and after services they covered us with flower garlands as is customary when they greet a guest they consider special. It was Great! ---- and we were thankful as they spoke about how we had helped them. That's what we came to do and it was nice of them to tell us we had encouraged and helped them. This is a marvelous group of Christians in a difficult work area. Bidar is dirty and the lives of these Christians are a daily trial. There is no persecution here (as yet) but their work is full of hardships. The building are set so close on most streets it is impossible for more than one car to go up them. The streets are all just red dirt and the buildings appear to be very old. But their spirit is great and we had some great assemblies. Robert Hall, a regular here from Hamilton, Alabama went to Bidar with us and he preached at several other places in the area while we were at ours. Robert comes here for a month twice a year to help and preach. He is a great guy and lot's of fun to be with. We have had some great OU and Alabama "battles." I told his it was too bad OU was playing for the National championship while Alabama was relegated to that "inferior" bowl! One of our driver/translators went back to his village after a Saturday night service there, studied with 12 people until 4 AM, baptizing 8--- 4 being denominational preachers. John is a marvelous person, a great preacher and about as hard working an individual as I have known. We will miss him! We are all (Me, Elaine, Robert, and John) are exhausted after a long trip but elated we were able to serve the Lord in Bidar. We fly out at 3:35 AM on Tuesday--(Monday Night!) so tomorrow will be very busy. I will try to post one more time before we go to the airport. God bless us all in His work!

Thursday/Friday in Hyderabad

2008-12-11T08:23:00.013+05:30

THURSDAY:
We are spending the rest of our time in India with the Clayton team in Hyderabad. We are going to try to make the most efficient use of our time left. They would like for me to speak at the school in Bedar and then in Several congregations Sunday. Trouble is, at this point I have no voice. I have never experienced not being able to talk above a whisper but yesterday and today---nothing. My voice has always been strong so I don't know how to deal with this. My mother always said I had a STRONG VOICE, Elaine says I have a LOUD MOUTH! Oh, well. The Lord will lead us where he wants us to go. We stayed last night, and the several days we were here earlier, in the home of Kyle Clayton and his family. They have made us feel very much at home and we love them for it. Sony is native to India and Kyle is a full time USA transplant. Sony's father was B.D. Emmanuel, a great preacher here in India. (Left to right) Preethi, Sony, Sunshine, Kyle, and Jordan are in one of the pictures. They have made us feel like family. Karen and Ron (in the other picture) are going to Bangladore today and then back to the states in a day or two so we will spend our remaining time in their apartment at the church office.

FRIDAY:

Since my voice won't work, we went this morning for a little sightseeing to Golkanda Fort here in Hyderabad. Truthfully I have never seen anything like it in my life! It is a Fort they began building in 1363 and huge parts of it remain. It has two hugh walls made to repel about anything including gates elephant battering rams could not penetrate. Then the inner wall. The inner wall is over 80' high, 5' thick and 7 Km around it. I have been to many ancient ruins---the Parthenon in Athens, etc. But this Fort dwarfs anything I have ever seen. I have some good video and PIC's a couple I have posted. We leave in the morning for Bidar, 3 hours north of here. I am to teach in the school of preaching in the afternoon and Elaine will again teach the women. Then tomorrow night we will hold a gospel service there in Bidar. Sunday, I am to preach at several churches on the way back to Hyderabad. I hope my voice hold out. I am better and think it will be OK. And, to paraphrase Jesus statement: "We must work the works of Him that sent us WHILE WE ARE HERE for the airline cometh and takes us away so we can no longer work."

Now in Hyderbad

2008-12-10T20:27:00.006+05:30

Not really much to report today since most of our day was in travel. We spent som time in Rajamundry checking on the work of M. William Carey for the St. Louis church. I will report to them what I have found when I get home. We were an hour and a half late getting out of Rajamundry because of the arrival of some "Big wig" politician. The last 4 Km to the airport were a night mare. There was easily 100,000 people around and on airport grounds to greet him and you can guess what that does to a one lane entry road. It was crazy! Ricky and a policeman had to help us fight through a dense crowd with all our luggage to get to the terminal. They had armed police at the locked door and these nuts tried to force their way in while they let us in. I was ridiculous! People jumped over the airport fences and ran out on the taxi way and runway to "chase" that plane in. As tight as security is right now it's a wonder those police fella's with automatic weapons did not shoot them. We thought about it later---- if they had they would have probably had a riot with no telling what results. I can't even describe it. I told Elaine I can now understand when you read about people being trampled to death at European soccer matches. This crowd was so dense, if anything had "touched them off" surely some would have been hurt! Anyway, I thought I would just post some scenery for today.

A Day With The Children

2008-12-09T20:18:00.008+05:30

We spent the whole day today with the children at the orphanage. First, a birthday cake for one of the girls.... then a walk about 2 Km to the Rajiv Ghandi park..... lunch and then to the beach. I may not have told you Kakinada is on the coast, specifically on the Bay of Bengal of the Indian Ocean. We had a great time with the kids, though a bit taxing. We are not as young as we used to be! But we had fun. People here "pray without ceasing." Note the kids praying before we leave the beach. We have spent the evening with Bro. Joshua Gootam and his wife Kabita. I learned a great deal about the beginnings of the work in India and specifically in Kakinada area. We leave here tomorrow to go back to Hyderabad. Ron Clayton called today and advised of the VERY tight and heightened security even in the small airports. He had flown back from Vijawata and thats a small airport and his time through the security was considerably longer. It's hard to say goodby to everybody here. Bro. Gootam keeps pressuring me to come and work with him...(we are both about the same age) He tells me every day that the older a person gets in India the more respect they get. He maintains all preachers in America should come to India when they reach 60. Funny, in America churches all want a "younger" preacher. Experience and knowledge and ability don't count much, I guess. Anyway....... Ricky preached to about 300 in a village gathering last night with 17 being baptized. The remote mountain villages are eager to hear. All of us who go in and preach with these kind of responses know the real work has been done by the local preacher and we just get to motivate a little. These preachers are something! Well, here are some pictures of our day.

Elaine on Monday

2008-12-08T10:25:00.005+05:30

Jim talked about us going to the villages. I spoke at the one we went to on Friday. All the women wanted to shake my hand and wanted me to pray with them and each of their children. There were 4 Baptisms there before we left. In each of the churches we visited Saturday, we were given seats on the podium and then ceremoniously a different person would put a garland of flowers around each of our necks. Just the men spoke this day, but afterward the women and children would crowd around me - asking for prayers, and shaking my hand. Most of the men were still in the fields working long after dark. I don't think many women (white or otherwise) go to these remote areas very much - if at all. Maybe for them to see a woman taking interest in them was very important. Maybe I encouraged them and let them know we care and God cares. In these remote villages, cow manure was mixed with straw (by hand) and made into small patties and stuck on walls to dry. This was their fuel for cooking and heating. Most of the children (3 and under) wore no clothes. We were constantly passing herds of Water Buffalo ambling down the street ("speed slowers"). We saw one herd swimming in the River (Cool). Saturday, two of the churches fed us. It was hard to eat their food (as they stood and watched) for the two preachers that fed us had little or no food for themselves. They were so generous and encouraging us to eat more. Both preachers had a wife and a little baby and lived in a 10 X 10 square room with a shelf for a kitchen and mats on the floor for beds - that's it. These people are so dedicated and self-sacrificing. Everyone knows that I am a dog lover. Most of the dogs are semi-wild here and fend for themselves. I was wishing people would feed them some because they are so thin. Then I realized - so are the people. They are too busy trying to feed themselves and their families. Surviving each day is the goal. You will notice in the one picture, a stainless pot in the corner. These people always give to the church what they can. Many times they have no money so they bring some rice to help feed the preachers family. It may be only a bowl...and maybe it makes them short of food themselves, but they give. At first, we were critical that things were not cleaner and painted up and repaired. We soon learned that when you have to make a choice between feeding your children or paint on the wall....the paint has to wait! This work is very humbling and really puts things into perspective. God Bless - Elaine.

The Villages---and Sunday

2008-12-07T19:46:00.008+05:30

I missed my post yesterday and I think Elaine is going to post in the morning again. Saturday was a LONG day. we went from Kakinada to Rajamundry and then 5 village congregations. Talking to them about their work and having services at each one--we did not get back to the hotel until 11:30 P.M and then another one of those wedding parties was going on outside. They moved us to a room on the other side of the hotel so we get away from the noise. These little "village" churches are amazing. They have from 50-100 members in towns from 1000-3000. They are all REMOTE. They are agricultural villages working rice and sugar cane. These people come by bike or by foot some from 5-6 Km to worship. One 80 year old lady walks all day to a friends house--halfway to services---then walks the rest of the way the second day to worship and study the bible. Then after services she reverses the trip. They say she never misses--several miles each way. The older man in one of the pictures apologized over and over that they had not finished and painted their building before we arrived. They are proud of these 25 by 40 or so buildings. They cost about $4000 for materials and they do all the labor. Then any paint, interior, etc. comes from their contributions. The Blue River church in Kansas City has provided the money to build 9 of these. One of the preachers was concerned about his large group of young people in relation to Instrumental Music and other worship issues. Ricky asked me to speak and address those issues. It's tough organizing thoughts and getting ready for that on a ROUGH country lane---in the back seat----in about 45 minutes but we got it done. I hope it helped them---I think it did....they seemed to respond well. When you show these people the truth---they follow it. I preached for the morning service here in Kakinada this morning and really love how these people listen. Then I spent all afternoon with my notes on the sermon "Who is this Jesus" putting it in manuscript form so Joseph Gootam can print it in his newsletter and in tract form. I am humbled the lesson was so well received. Not my MY spirit--but the power of God. It's just 8:00 PM but Elaine is already OUT! She is exhausted but she jotted a bunch of things down she wanted to BLOG so I am sure in the morning she will write. In fact I think I will go to bed too! God bless us all in His service.

In The Villages

2008-12-05T16:43:00.008+05:30

We spent the day today in the village of Yeluru, about an hour and a half from Kakinada. They have a nice building in this little town out in the country. They have no seating, so they sit in the floor and listen. We went through rice and sugar cane fields all along the way in very beautiful areas. They greeted us like royalty with flower Lei's and throwing flowers as we came. Amazing! Humbling! All the men spoke for a while, with Joshua Gootam translating.

After lunch the men went walking through this little village and Elaine spoke to about 50 ladies. She spoke to them on the scriptures teaching about "How to be Truly Beautiful." Bro. Gootam again translated. I did not get to hear her since they made all the men leave, but Joshua said she did a great job. Judging by the response, he was right---they just mobbed her after services. We could not hardly get her away so we could leave. I am very proud of her since I know how hard it was for her to do this. She really fits the scriptures description of beautiful! To have a woman speak to them is rare and they obviously loved it. There were 4 young women baptized at this village today.

An Eventful Day

2008-12-04T13:42:00.008+05:30

Today was the last day of the lectureship and an eventful day it was! We are somewhat sleep deprived since we had a Hindu wedding in the event center right out our window. Drums, horns, and loud music all night long. It concluded at 6 this morning. Indian weddings can go on for a week. Then 24 hour ceremonies and parties on the day of the wedding.

It was a great closing service today and inspirational to hear these people praise God in song even though we know none of the words. I was privileged to close the lectures with the final speech this morning and we are taking the afternoon off before going out to preach and teach all day tomorrow. People take off work, give up a precious days pay and come to hear the Gospel all day long. I am afraid I am not going to be too sympathetic to those in America we have to beg to come to worship let alone give up anything to study the Word. Seeing the hunger of these people for righteousness, it disgusts me to think of those who have none.

Then, how 'bout this dedication....after services today 2 men asked to be baptized. One a business man and one a Baptist preacher..(Now former Baptist preacher) This man has to give up so much! His church, his financial support--- everything ---in order to obey the truth. I had a chance to visit with this man for a while and must tell you, men like this are very special. And yet, this is typical of India. They have a willingness to seek the truth and then the backbone to follow it. It's happening everywhere. I told him how proud I was he was willing to do what he was doing---he was grateful for the encouragement....but I was very aware he was much more thankful he was doing what God wanted him to do than my being proud of him. He will probably convert his entire former congregation.

I met some men from Orissa last night. They came from hours away to attend. You may have read the "sanitized" media version of the violence against Christians in Orissa. Orissa is north of here a couple of hundred kilometers. The version in our USA papers is BULL to say the least. These men recounted how Hindu militants went through villages and if people refused to put up the Hindu flag and professed to being christians----they burned the house. They burned down the houses of hundreds of Christians. They have burned all the church buildings and every Bible they could find. They made people renounce Christ or die...... no numbers appear to be accurate but from their reports, they have murdered thousands. Their government stood by and did nothing during all these attacks. They brought the names of 580 Christians in a compound outside Khandhamel who have lost everything. There is some question if the government has them there for their protection or to jail them.

Bro. Gootham offered to send 500 Bibles back with them but they said the government guards (sympathetic to the terrorists) would not let them bring them in. The church here sent blankets and food by truck we hope gets through. They have no where to go and are afraid to return home. I can hardly contain the tears just writing about these wonderful people. I pray for their safety as they return to the compound today.

Terrorists fired on police in Hyderabad today and 8 were arrested. We go back there on the 10th. We are careful but who knows.... Pray for this work and the safety of it's workers.

Wednesday's Activities

2008-12-03T14:50:00.012+05:30

The Pictures: Some of the ladies at the home; Their Kitchen: Darin Kennedy; Lee's Summit, MO. ; Jim Kelly, Asher, OK. Scott Elliot; Wilburton, OK (Bro Sadguna Rao translating for Darin and Scott. Bro. Joshua Gootam translating for Jim.)

It has been another full day of work and study. The schedule here calls for 6 lecture periods per day and those are interspersed with teaching preachers, visiting elderly and children's homes, Etc. Sometimes if there are native preachers preaching in the assemblies, (None of us speak Telegu!) the rest of us are working in the other areas. The church here operates a home for elderly ladies---all of whom have no one to care for them but these loving christians. There are about 30 in the home right now. It is a small house and all these elderly ladies sleep on the floor, cook in a small kitchen room. Baths are ----- well, you wouldn't understand! We talked about some way to put beds in but there is simply no room for furniture. They are glad to have food and a roof over their heads but it still tears at your heart and conscience to see elderly ladies having to live like that.

This ones from Elaine

2008-12-02T14:54:00.015+05:30

SOME SCENES FROM KAKINADA

Jim has been doing most of the talking (what's new!), but I wanted to add a few observations of my own. After arriving in Hyderabad, Karen (Ron Clayton's wife) took me shopping for a couple of punjabi's. (A long shirt and pants with head covering scarf.) The shopping area was like a long alley with little 10' x 10' shops solid on either side. The hustle of the people going everywhere (100's of people, bicycles, motorcycles - all fighting for the right of way). The little shops were very specialized. Punjabis in one, shoes in one, belts in one, and so on. Selection is nothing like it is in the states.

The next day, I went with Karen to shop for Thanksgiving dinner. We went to the market. This was a very small store with limited amount of goods. Eggs, for example, were on a small shelf in cartons of 6 eggs only. You could buy pasteurized milk, but only in one pint plastic bags. There were a few cereals from the states, but they were over $6.00. Fruits and vegetables were fresh and cheap, but everything else was high. There was no meat in the grocery store. If you want chicken, you call the man with chickens, etc. etc. We went to the florist for a flower centerpiece. It was a little space outside, with a selection of about 10 arrangements, with only about 6 different flowers to choose from. Nothing like the florist I am use to. The accommodations have been good and the food great. Flying into Rajahmundry was an experience. We taxied in on the same strip we landed on. The terminal was one small brick room. Baggage claim was a wagon at the sidewalk by the gate out.

I think Jim told you about our visit with Ricky's father-in-law and the two Australian girls visiting there. I have enjoyed visiting with the speakers and listening to them speak. They have fed us lunch and dinner at the church during and after the lectures. My hair dryer blew up, so Jim and I caught a taxi ( an open little motorized vehicle with a seat for two in the back - unless you are Indian - then six or so can ride) and went to look for a place to get one. This was quite an interesting tour. The driver could not understand us and we could not understand him - so we circled around for some time - and then we gave up. We went down narrow streets with small venders all over the place, cows laying or grazing along the street, three or so pigs in groups, scrounging for scraps, small herds of water buffalo or goats wandering down the street and this was among the bicycles, motorcycles, taxis, pedicabs and cars - very crowded, yes very crowded. When Ricky heard about our little trip, he said we should not have gotten into a cab. They might take you anywhere - not safe.

Ricky's mom loaned me a hair dryer and saved the day. Crystal was right the little kids tug at your heart. They are so hungry for attention. They sit quietly through the lectures, with an occasional glance back at us and a shy grin and a little wave. They could really use some clothes. One little girl, maybe three, was just dropped off by her mom the day before Sunday and her little face told the whole story - she was lost! I haven't had a chance to tour the orphanage yet, but they seem to take very good care of the children. They are clean and well-fed (lots of rice). Last night as we were leaving the lectures, we walked through the crowded auditorium I saw the many poor people with small sacks or bags. I found out later that some of these people had traveled a long way to listen and Ricky had invited them to stay there for the night. They would sleep on the floor in the auditorium and they fed them supper. Well I could go on forever. This is quite an experience for me - a once in a life-time experience.

The Speakers

2008-12-01T17:29:00.004+05:30

The speakers at the lectureship, Left to right:

Back Row: Ricky Gootam, Kakinada, India; Jerry Manning, West columbia, SC; Scott Elliot, Wilburton, OK; Gary Young, Richmond, Tasmania, Australia; Ray Maples, Mississippi; Joshua Gootam, Kakinada, India.

Front Row: Billy Bland, Memphis, Tennessee; Jim Kelly, Asher, OK; Shaym Salam; Guwahati, India.

Ricky and Joshua Gootam operate the preaching school, orphanage and preach all over this area.

Jerry Manning preaches for the West Columbia, SC church and works extensively in prison ministry.

Scott Elliot preaches for the Church in Wilburton, OK

Ray Maples is now retired as the Police Chief of Memphis, TN. living in Mississippi.

Gary Young is a Professor at the University of Tasmania, Australia with a Phd in Roman History.

Billy Bland is an Elder at Coldwater C of C in Senatobia, MS and teaches at the Memphis School of Preaching.

Shaym Salam operates a school in Guwahati, India with 1600 students K-12. They all then get assistance for college. They are taught normal school along with the word of God.

Also in the picture is Ray Maples grandson.

(Not pictured and yet to arrive: Darin Kennedy, Lees Summit, MO)

With such a distinguished group of men, I feel like a mule in a Thoroughbred race ---- I'm just glad for the association!

I did not preach today but speak daily from now on and then close the lectures on Thursday morning. The remainder of our time here will then be working with all the activities of the church here in Kakinada.

Sunday in Kakinada

2008-11-30T15:06:00.006+05:30

We have had a great Sunday! I spoke at the morning service to a PACKED auditorium. They had chairs on the sides too. Remarkably, 48 (I Counted) little children 5-10 years old sat on the floor in front of the pulpit through the entire service! Listening attentively, on their knees during prayer and singing with spirit. (An hour and a half...and they had already had 2 hours of bible classes) Joshua Gootam (Ricky's Dad) translated for me and does a tremendous amount of translation of Bible books, tracts, etc, into Telegu. He asked for a transcript of today's sermon to translate into written form for use in their work here. They mail 12,000 teaching periodicals monthly and he wants to put it there as well. I am humbled that this sermon is so well received. Certainly not by my might or spirit, but by the spirit and power of God! I continue to marvel at this great work. It is hard to believe it without seeing it! I have run out of superlatives to describe what is happening here in India. We go back at 6:30 for another service with Billy Bland from the Memphis School of Preaching doing the speaking. There are speakers here from Alabama, Tennessee, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Australia, and around India. One speaker was coming from Thailand, Dorsey Traw, but has been unable to get here as yet because of the unrest in Bangkok. After services today the entire church and guests ate together.... I have never seen that much rice in one place! Rice, a fried cabbage, a flat bread and a bunch of other stuff I don't know what is. It was great! I could write for an hour but will let the pictures tell the story. God bless us all in His service.

Arrival in Kakinada

2008-11-29T15:55:00.009+05:30

After our short flight from Hyderabad we arrived safely in Rajahmundry. Ricky Gootam met the plane and we went to his father-in-laws place in RAJ (Rajamundry). We experienced a wonderful Indian lunch and got to tour the school and orphanage. I continue to be in awe at the dedication and sacrifice of these people. The school is operated by Bro. Sudarsana Rao, Ricky's father-in law, assisted by his two sons Jim Prakesh and Raja Vijaya Kumar. (Raja holds a masters degree in Molecular Biology but gave up a profitable career to do this, the Lord's work) They are all preachers and preach all over this area an run a school and orphanage there in RAJ. It'll break your heart to visit with these 150 children whose eyes light up when you enter there classrooms and speak to them. They are smiling and happy and obviously know someone cares for them. Elaine was the last to come out to leave...I thought we were going to have to drag her! They go to school from 9 in the morning til 4:30 in the afternoon--6 days a week. The church feeds three meals a day and clothes and takes care of all these children. It takes about $50 a month per child to handle this, so support is always a problem. They can buy one set of clothes for about for about $6.00 each. They never turn a child away and trust the Lord to provide. There are 15 widows who also work in the school for their sole support. I have never seen more faith or dedication. We also met two wonderful ladies from the church in Hobart, Tasmania, Australia who are working for 6 weeks in the school and orphanage. Gemma Wells and Ruth Sinclair were a delight to visit with. I could tell immediately by there speech, they were not from Oklahoma! The lectureship opens tomorrow (Sunday) and I am to make the opening address at 11:00 A.M. I can't tell you how humbled I am to just be here with the opportunity to speak for My Lord, and how much Elaine and I have been blessed by just seeing the work here. She is to teach the Ladies on Monday and will do a good job.

Keep us in our prayers!

Training Day

2008-11-28T09:55:00.003+05:30

I titled this "Training Day" and really wonder who was training who. I taught yesterday at the School of preaching in Jag Hill---remote Hyderabad. Teaching through a translator is not as easy as it it appears. Your thought processes have to slow down a bit. Anyway it was a great day for me. The native men who are preaching the Gospel here in India are so dedicated it shames we American preachers. I got to have lunch with them and visit with many personally through my translator. The men who accompany me TRANSLATE not INTERPRET...as they are trained to do. That is probably harder for them to do but when speaking of scripture----no one wants misunderstanding. I am posting a picture of one class of these dedicated men. They want me to come back when we return to Hyderabad and teach a full day on a subject I had taught one lesson on yesterday. I don't know what the schedule will allow. They are hungry to learn and it is hard for me to not just continue teaching but I have to discipline myself to quit when I am tired........ today I am exhausted, as is Elaine and we are going to take a day of less activity before we fly to Kakinada. We have hardly slowed down since we landed and the Jet Lag hit us both last night----we slept till about 9:30 this morning. We know we must rest but our time is limited and we will rest when we get home---while we are here we will work! We fly to Kakinada in the morning (Saturday) and begin the lectures on Sunday. They do not expect the attacks in Mumbai to have any effect on the lectures except all flights get a little more scrutiny. We have appreciated all your e-mails, they are real encouragement to us.

The Real India

2008-11-27T07:46:00.004+05:30

We spent most of the day Wednesday with the Clayton group in Hyderabad. We learned a lot about the work in this part of India and got to go to some areas of the"real" India, the places you see everywhere, not just the tourist pictures. The traffic in India....well picture L.A. or New York at rush hour and multiply it by 10. Hyderabad is populated by 13 million people. The state of Andra Pradesh is about a third the size of Texas with a population of 90 Million. All our work will be in Andra Pradesh...Hyderabad abd Kakinada
We met most of the staff at the office both Indian and American. It's about as busy a place as you can imagine with constant comings and goings. I am just overwhelmed by the task they have undertaken in a very organized manner to reach people with the Gospel. Some 20,000 native preachers from 40,000 congregations all look to this office for help and guidance. Most of the preachers have been trained in one of the schools. As the scriptures teach, each church is autonomous and NONE of these preachers receives salary from the US. The only ones paid by our American churches are instructors, directors of the schools and the orphan homes. Most of them "double up" as visiting preachers on Sunday as well.
Today I will be teaching at one of the preacher training schools. I am instructed to teach until I am tired and then come back to the church office. I am just astonished by these people's desire to hear the Word of God...and how they respond to it. I get my first chance to help and encourage them today. I know many of you are reading this daily...keep us in your prayers.
The events of last night in Mumbai are a bit unsettling but Mumbai is a ways away from here. ((78 people killed in hotels and restaurants---mostly American or other foreign tourists.) Those who cannot win support by logic and words still try to take it by force. God bless us all in His service.

We're In India!

2008-11-26T11:22:00.002+05:30

Well, we are in India. We arrived in Hyderabad at 3:00 A.M. today after 23 hours of flying time. Anyone who can get much sleep on an airplane has my utmost respect. ME? No way. I feel like I have been in a strait jacket for 24 hours. Needless to say Elaine and I are feeling the effects even though we slept until 11:00 A.M. this morning. After about 6 hours sleep we are a little "drug out" but ready to go.

Ron, Kyle and Joseph (driver and interpreter) met us at the airport. Of course we saw very little of India driving from the airport in the wee hours of the morning but will post more tomorrow, hopefully with pictures. We are staying in the home of Kyle and Sophia Clayton. (Ron and Karen's son.) The impact these people have made and are making in India is truly remarkable. They have made us feel very much at home and comfortable. Other members of the team include Ben Rennegar and Robert Hall. All spend full time in this work.

We are going to Ron and Karen's this afternoon for thanksgiving dinner. Today should give us some time to acclimate to the time and rest us a bit.

I am taking my camera and will try to post pictures of all thats going on in tomorrows post. We will be here in Hyderabad through Friday and then fly to Rajahmundry (the closest airport to Kakinada) Saturday morning. God bless us all in His service. Jim

2008-11-02T05:04:00.003+05:30

As I write this, we are just 23 days away from leaving for India. Please continue to pray for this effort and know how much we appreciate your support. We are close to having everything in order, financial support, places to stay, speech topics and schedules, etc. We are now at the stage of thinking about what to pack and all those kind of things. We are having some "India" food dishes with Crystal and Aaron tomorrow after morning worship. (I'm told we have to sit on the floor and eat with our hands!) They have been of great help in our preparation since they have been twice to the same place we are going. God bless us all to His Glory.

2008-10-07T03:04:00.001+05:30

Thanks to the help of so many, we will depart for the Lectureships on November 24. Our flight takes us from OKC to Hyderbad, India by way of Memphis and Amsterdam, Holland. From Hyderbad we fly on the Kakinada.