Source:                     www.vomusa.org

Date:                          June 1, 2023

 

Woman raising her hands and praying
Seeds of Faith
Pastor Shankar Yalam traveled frequently in his work supporting a network of more than 40 house churches in central India’s Chhattisgarh state. He worked tirelessly to help persecuted Christians get protection and support from local authorities. Although threats were common, Shankar steadfastly proclaimed the gospel and led churches throughout the area. Vocal and passionately involved in the community, he also loved the quiet of his garden and the peace of his family home.

That peace was shattered on March 17, 2022, when Shankar was drawn away from the family’s evening meal by yelling at the gate of his home. When he arrived at the gate, six masked men entered the courtyard shouting insults about his Christian faith. They struck Shankar in the face, bound his arms behind his back and forced him to kneel. Then they stabbed and shot the respected pastor before fleeing. Kamla Yalam, who rushed to her husband’s side and held him as he died, said his last words were a prayer.

The attack was over in minutes, but the murder of a beloved husband, father, grandfather and pastor was not the end of the story. He had taught his family and the believers he led and discipled to be faithful until death. His example in life and death led many others to a deeper faith in Christ.

“He always said that we are Christ’s witnesses, and the day we are persecuted we will become stronger witnesses. He said people around us will know why we are persecuted, and this may cause people to search for Jesus.”
—KAMLA, PASTOR SHANKAR’S WIDOW

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