02/06/2025 India (International Christian Concern) – In the last two years, Pastor Ravi has watched God expand his ministry beyond anything he could have imagined.
When he planted a church four years ago in a remote village in Telangana, southern India, he did so out of faith, trusting God would provide as he shared the gospel in the village of 300 Hindu families. Soon, the 33-year-old pastor had a church of 50 believers known as Praise Temple Church.
Pastor Ravi’s small income from his church wasn’t enough to cover his family’s basic needs, including his children’s education. Despite the financial constraints, he remained committed to the work God had given him.
Two years ago, Pastor Ravi received financial assistance from International Christian Concern to establish a grocery store business next to his church building. He is now seeing the fruits of the “tent-making” model of ministry.
Pastor Ravi, who has a post-graduate degree in business administration, sees running a small business as a God-given opportunity to help him continue to serve as a pastor. Since starting his business, Pastor Ravi has expanded his ministry into new areas and now leads a worship service in a neighboring village.
Rural pastors in India are enthusiastic about sharing their faith, eagerly planting churches without considering the financial support they would need to survive. Seeing the great need for the Hindu-majority population to hear the gospel, these pastors often rely on faith that God will provide their basic needs.
Many pastors are in situations like Pastor Ravi’s but remain committed to helping the church act as a lighthouse amid the darkness. The longevity of their work depends on their ability to sustain their ministries and survive financially. The gift of a small business helps them achieve both.
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