As many of you may know, two of our pastors recently traveled to India to visit our Mid India project. After 2 years of absence from this well-loved country, this trip held a special value as our pastors were able to see just how much the Mid India Christian mission has been able to expand by improving schools, discipleship programs, vocational training, and even providing collegiate opportunities for students.
These improvement have all the more increased opportunity for students to pursue what they are most passionate about and make a difference in their communities.
Diversity Amongst A Mighty Population
India is the second-most populated country in the world (just behind China,) with about 1.4 billion people and is the birthplace of four worldwide religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism, and Jainism. It is also home to the largest Hindu population in the world – about 213 million. The christian minority of the population makes up about 30 million, (equivalent to the state of Texas.) India is a secular nation with 22 official languages. Religious acceptance has traditionally been a valued characteristic, however, things are beginning to shift and persecution is on the rise.
Hindus uphold themselves to a strict moral code, believing in such concepts as reincarnation (rebirth of a soul,) and karma (consequences of an action or deed.) The religious and cultural diversity that constitutes this country reveals the value of its individuality. There is no denying the mighty influence this nation holds.