Peter Pal in India

to me

The apostle Paul endured immense hardships after choosing to follow the Lord Jesus Christ—beatings, stoning, shipwrecks, and constant dangers from robbers, his own people, Gentiles, and false brethren. He faced exhaustion, hunger, thirst, and exposure, yet remained steadfast in faith (2 Cor. 11:24-28).

Despite his trials, Paul consistently emphasized thanksgiving, expressing gratitude over 40 times in Scripture—primarily to God (Acts 27:35), the Father, and Christ Jesus (Eph. 5:20; 1 Tim. 1:12). He thanked fellow believers (Rom. 1:8), acknowledged God’s provision (Acts 27:35), rejoiced in deliverance (Rom. 7:25), and praised Him for the victory found in Christ (1 Cor. 15:57). He recognized the care shown by others in the faith (2 Cor. 8:16) and rejoiced in the inheritance of the saints (Col. 1:12).

May we follow Paul’s example and cultivate hearts of gratitude, saying with him:
“Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” (2 Cor. 9:15)
“In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Th. 5:18)
“Give thanks to God always for [other believers].” (2 Th. 2:13)

Letter of Thanksgiving from a Fellow Brother in the Indian Mission Field

As I reflect on the past year, I recognize that my year-end report may have conveyed uncertainty, which I now deeply regret. Please accept my sincere apologies. However, I take comfort in the unwavering truth of Scripture:

"The One who calls you is faithful, and He will do it." — 1 Thessalonians 5:24

With hearts full of gratitude, we thank the Lord for His faithfulness amidst the challenges our family has faced. We are deeply grateful for God’s sustaining grace during my mother, Mrs. Kaki Vijaya Sree’s, ongoing battle with cancer. Through her surgeries, treatments, and travels for medical care, the Lord has provided strength and resources, even in our most difficult moments. We praise Him for granting her healing from past illnesses and for guiding the hands of the doctors overseeing her treatment at Christian Medical College, Vellore.

We also give thanks for the outpouring of love and support from faithful friends and spiritual mentors. Generous financial gifts arrived at a time of great need, reminding us of God’s provision through His people. The prayers, encouragement, and assistance from beloved brothers and sisters in Christ have been a testimony of God’s goodness and the unity of His Church.

My daily visits to the hospital provided valuable opportunities to share the Gospel with other patients. Whenever I attended a Christmas gathering, I would step forward to sing and share the message of Christ’s love in both Hindi and English. For the Cross-Over Night service, I joined my local church with my family before returning to the hospital.

Despite the challenges of balancing ministry, family responsibilities, and caregiving, the WhatsApp Prayer Room remained steadfastly active, uplifting those in need through dedicated intercession. Additionally, the daily devotional messages continued without interruption, providing consistent spiritual encouragement.

Mother has successfully undergone three chemotherapy sessions without experiencing any side effects or complications. She is able to take short walks, eat well, and remain engaged in her Bible reading and prayers. However, she has begun to experience some hair loss.

Sister PS, Brother MK, ML, and AT from Chhattisgarh continue to experience a bountiful harvest despite the recent statewide opposition to Christians. Sister PS now engages mostly with women ministry and is being powerfully used in His Kingdom

PC, KKG, KM, and RC from Uttar Pradesh engage in various social initiatives, including cleanliness drives, adult education, sewing programs, and women's hygiene awareness. Through these efforts, they foster meaningful connections with the local community while sharing the message of the Gospel.

KK from Haryana is making a meaningful impact by reaching out to underprivileged children and communities of rag-pickers near Basti. Through dedicated efforts, he provides books, colors, biscuits, clothing, and shoes to those in need. Additionally, to help protect families living in makeshift shelters, damaged tents were reinforced with large, thick polythene covers, offering relief from the harsh winter cold.

Keziah, our elder daughter, graduated on February 5, 2025, earning her Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Respiratory Therapy after completing a rigorous four-year program. She received commendable feedback from her institution and has been highly recommended by her faculty for opportunities at leading corporate hospitals in Bengaluru and Hyderabad.

Jasmine developed a severe case of pneumonia, affecting her right lower lung. As my wife found it challenging to manage the frequent visits to local clinics, I promptly took Jasmine to Vellore for specialized pediatric care. Thanks to the expertise of the medical team, she received effective treatment and made a full recovery. After 15 days of rest and recuperation, Jasmine is now healthy and ready to return to school.

Bishop Santosh Thomas from Kashmir visited us in Vellore and prayed with us. During his master health check-up, doctors recommended shoulder surgery. I was blessed with the opportunity to serve him at his bedside throughout his surgery and recovery until his family members joined him.

With all our hearts, we offer praise for what He has already done and what He will continue to do. May we, like Paul, always say, “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” (2 Cor. 9:15) and thank everyone who stood with us in prayer and generous giving.

In Christ’s love,
Pastor Peter Pal & Family