Pastor and believers boldly face Fanatics, West Bengal

In yet another incident of Christian persecution being reported, we witness the constitutional right to freedom of religion being dangerously challenged time and again.

Pastor Ramesh Ray, who lives in a village called Jabramali, located in the district of Jalpaiguri in the Indian state of West Bengal, has been leading ‘The Faith in God Church’ at his residence for the past 7 years where around 30 Christians gather to worship every Sunday.

On 2/11/19 the Church members had gathered together at the Pastor’s residence. Around 8pm, while the prayer meeting was underway, they were suddenly interrupted by more than 30 religious fanatics who entered the pastor’s home in an unruly manner. ” We do not want any more meetings to take place at your house in future, no more preachings of Jesus Christ, we want you to reconvert to Hinduism” said the man who was leading the crowd.

The Pastor calmly replied, “I have been running this meeting since the last 7 years, where have you been all this while? Why now so suddenly? Boldly facing the fanatics he continued, “I will not stop until you get an order from the High Court or Supreme Court, I have the right to worship in my home and I will not stop.”

After much debate, the fanatics, who tried their best to frighten the Pastor and the believers, began to leave threatening, “if you don’t stop we will beat and kill you!” Pastor Ramesh, who seemed unintimidated, replied “you do what you have to do, but I will continue worshiping my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ till my last breath.”

Pastor Ramesh told us that he will fearlessly continue to worship at his residence. He has also given a written complaint at Mainaguri Police Station. The Police are currently investigating the incident.

In a world of ethnic and cultural division, this is good news-Through Jesus, God is forming a new humanity from every nation, tribe, and tongue-Rev 7:9. Praise God for the great faith and courage that Pastor Ramesh and his believers displayed. Church, do continue to keep them in your prayers. May this story bring you immense encouragement. We pray that you would stand strong in Jesus Christ during times of persecution.