Mission to Bangladesh

In February I (Russell) traveled to Bangladesh for twelve days of ministry, joining an international team with members from the US and the Philippines. Our first stop was the beautiful Holiness Academy in Dhaka, which provides schooling for local community families, and hosts a boarding school for children from remote villages who lack educational opportunities.

With the help of volunteer interpreters, our four experienced medical professionals saw hundreds of patients over two days, diagnosing their ailments and dispensing medicines from supplies they brought from the United States. A smile, a listening ear, a gentle touch and an encouraging word proved as effective as any medication in bringing comfort to distressed bodies and souls.

In another part of the campus, our energetic and experienced children's ministry team provided a variety of activities for body, mind and spirit: indoor and outdoor games, coloring and drawing, Bible songs and skits, and group teaching and individual interaction. The smiles, hugs and gifts communicated love in personal and tangible ways.

One afternoon we were privileged to witness eleven young people stepping into the waters of baptism. What a joy to see boys and girls, young men and young women dedicating their lives to Jesus!

The final clinics required a 45-minute flight north and were held at the IPHC Roberson Regional Center. This combination church, training center, and regional headquarters seemed to be in the middle of nowhere. But over 250 people traveled from miles around to the clinic, waiting for hours to see the doctors.

We were able to fit around 300 people with reading glasses, bringing smiles to the faces of older folks who could finally see clearly enough to read or sew.

Over 120 children found their way to the campus for fun and games, and stories, songs and skits from the Bible. Before we left, they invited us to visit their homes hidden in the jungle. We left them with prayers, hugs, and mementos to remember all they heard and experienced.

Points for Prayer:

• Pray for the teachers and students of the Holiness Academy. May the Lord transform the lives of the students, teach them His ways, and equip them to serve Him and their nation.
• Pray for the families and children in North Bangladesh, that they may have resources to meet their needs, and have educational opportunities for their spiritual and mental development.
• Pray for wisdom and strength for missionaries Vijay and Aparanjani Balla, who pioneered the mission in Bangladesh 20 years ago and continue to provide leadership in all aspects of the work.
• Pray for health, strength and wisdom for us as we travel more extensively in a post-Covid world.

Thank you for your faithful partnership in the gospel!

Russell & Sandra Board

"The Great Commission is not an option to be considered; it is a command to be obeyed." - Hudson Taylor