02/01/2019 Washington D.C. (International Christian Concern) – “It was very difficult and painful as several new believers were beaten up so badly,” Pastor Ajay Ravi told International Christian Concern (ICC). “But I consider this a privilege to suffer for Jesus and believe God will turn this into a testimony of endurance and His faithfulness.”

Pastor Ravi bravely voiced these words following a violent attack by Hindu radicals on his church in Sarut village, located in India’s Chhattisgarh state. Calvary Gospel Ministries Church (CGM) has been under Pastor Ravi’s leadership for the past three years and he has faced threats of violence in the past. Radicals had warned him to stop Christian prayer in the village, but he refused.

Then, on Sunday, January 27, a mob of 40 radicals stormed the church and demanded that the worshippers vacate the building. The attackers spewed abusive language against the Christians, while declaring the greatness of their gods and goddesses.

Reluctantly, the 30 believers who had gathered at CGM complied and exited the building.  As they exited the church, they were severely beaten with wooden clubs and stones. A third of the congregation was injured, including three members who were hospitalized.

“I am not going to stop the worship in this village because of this attack on our church,” Pastor Ravi declared. “With God’s help, I will continue God’s work no matter what may come.”