Kingdom living looks like laying down your life for others. Read on to see how these two congregations are loving generously and seeking the flourishing of their neighbors.
Hyderabad, Telangana, India
The Hyderabad congregation has taken a significant step to make Sunday services more accessible by introducing translations of sermons into Telugu, the local language of the city. This initiative, which began recently, aims to serve every individual who attends the church, echoing the compassion and care of Jesus for each person. To support this effort, Mr. Satyanarayana, a seasoned professional translator, joined the congregation to offer his expertise. His involvement has ensured that sermons are delivered seamlessly in both English and Telugu, enriching the worship experience for all.
Several members expressed their joy, sharing how the bilingual services have allowed them to fully connect with and enjoy the messages being preached. The congregation is hopeful that this initiative will encourage more members of the Telugu-speaking community to join in the coming days, fostering inclusivity and spiritual growth.
The church remains committed to creating a welcoming and nurturing environment for all, furthering its mission to reach every heart with the gospel of Jesus.
By the GCI India Newsletter editors,
Shanti Nirale
Praveen Kumar Chintha
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Twenty-five years ago, the Gold Coast congregation began providing care bags to people in personal distress. All through those years, we took no break providing to a range of organizations. Some looked after unhoused youth, women seeking refuge from domestic abuse, people dealing with substance use, and a whole range of other crises experienced by many in our urban societies.
The problems on the Gold Coast are extensive. Ultimately, we decided to focus on partnering with one organization rather than trying to spread our limited resources around many. We chose the Gold Coast Youth Services (GCYS).
On Sunday, February 2, our congregation celebrated this 25-year anniversary of service, and we were joined by a representative of GCYS, Will Aufai. Will visited, with his wife and daughter, to personally thank the congregation for its faithful and reliable service through the years.
Will gave an outline of the work that the GCYS provides in the community. His warmth and love for those in need made an impact on everyone. He also provided the personal link between the recipients of the care bags in their time of need, and those who contribute to and assemble the toiletry and food bags each month.
Will expressed his gratitude for the fact that the GCYS has been able to rely on our contribution month by month for so many years. Will presented a plaque of appreciation to the congregation, which was accepted by John and Jen Herrmann and Jan Adamson as coordinators of the food and toiletry bags, respectively. In response, the congregation donated a basket of towels to him to aid their assistance program.
Will brought us a clear reminder of the words of the king, expressed in Jesus’ parable in Matthew 25:14 (The Message): I’m telling the solemn truth: Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was me—you did it to me.
By Rod Matthews, Pastor
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
