(L-R) Kristi Jenkins, Seth Jenkins, Shobha Massey, Selena Jenkins, Alan Jenkins, Shelby Jenkins, Sarah Jenkins, Seth Jenkins and Arun Massey Colquitt and the surrounding area were again blessed by Christians from India. While visiting a friend in Donalsonville, Arun and Shobha Massey, a precious and humble couple from Dharwad, Karnataka, India, gave presentations about the work the Lord has called and equipped them to do in South India. They spoke at the Jenkins' home Bible study in Colquitt, at New Hope Worship Assembly and in several home meetings in Donalsonville, at Iron City Baptist Children/ Youth Fellowship meeting, and at The Friendship House of Jesus in Bainbridge.

India is now #1 in HIV+ in the world. It ranks #2 in the world both in population (with 1.3 billion people) and child prostitution. Over 160,000 men commit suicide annually due to debt and poverty. These shocking facts provide the setting and motivation for the ministry of Arun and Shobha.

Arun and Shobha work among the "outcasts" and "untouchables" of South India. God has called them to share the love of Jesus with a specific people group called "The Devadasis." The "Devadasi System" is rooted in certain beliefs about the goddess "Yellamma" of the Hindu religion. It is believed, by this group of people, that the dedication of a young girl as a "devadasi" (meaning "servant of God") to be used as a "temple prostitute" will evoke the goddess Yellamma's blessings upon them and/or appease her anger against them.

By the sovereign grace of God, Arun and Shobha have rescued 65 girls from this system. These precious girls, ranging from 3 to 20 years of age, are now experiencing a dramatic life change. They have love, joy, and hope, care and provision, safety and protection; and a good education in the Joyful Children's Home with Arun, Shobha and staff.

Arun, Shobha, and their staff also serve over 3000 boys and girls in the Devadasi villages in afternoon programs, teaching them the Word of God, encouraging them to attend school, helping them with school studies, offering them outdoor sport and game activities, and providing them with some clothing, food, and needed school supplies.

They also reach out to the HIV+ people in these villages by providing food and clothing items and sharing God's good news through Bible studies. Tailoring is also taught as an alternative means of livelihood for women who desire to leave the life of a "devadasi."

As Arun, Shobha, and staff minister the love and hope of Jesus Christ in action and word, many lives have been incredibly changed by God's grace. The strong, tormenting, demonic fear of Yellamma is being broken and destroyed. The people are being set free from the poverty that has entrapped them in this vicious cycle for generations and generations. They are learning another way to live.

It was so wonderful to hear about this ministry and meet these two servants of the Lord. Arun was surprised by the celebration of his 44th birthday at the Jenkins' home. If you would like to find out more about this work in India, please call In Jesus' Name Ministries at 1-800-607-6119 or (229) 524-1208.