As we envision our future as a Benefice, we find inspiration in Archbishop Samuel’s life and ministry in Tamil Nadu, South India. Despite being from the lowest Dalit caste, Samuel believed in his calling to be ordained, overcoming opposition even within the Church of South India. His mission was to uplift the poor in his community.
“Where there is no vision the people perish”
(Proverbs 29:18).
In 2000, Samuel established the Highways Tea Estate, where women earned 50p a day picking tea leaves. The Rhema Partnership Trust was formed, and Richard Lloyd and I donated two sewing machines to the congregation. Since then, 50 machines have been acquired, and six sewing institutes have been set up, empowering women to gain independence and support their families.
A Bible College for Dalits also opened, and we attended its first graduation. Over the past 25 years, more than 5,000 children and young people have benefited from child sponsorship and college courses, leading to university degrees, nursing qualifications, and even one former student becoming a Bishop.
In 2003, medical camps were initiated in the area, and by 2009, a hospital and medical centre were established, treating over 15,000 patients to date. On Boxing Day 2004, emergency aid was provided following the tsunami, which reached up to a mile inland. I witnessed a memorial site where 16,000 bodies were buried and had the privilege of preaching to 80 orphan boys and girls in Cumbum, where the Trust (now Hope Gardens) offered training in catering and nursing. Their joy was unforgettable.
In 2005, a SEND School opened, now recognised as the top school in Theni district, addressing the needs of children often rejected by their parents. In 2019, land was purchased for a paddy field, providing employment and food for the Mission and local community, with 8,000 parcels distributed during the COVID crisis.
Hope Gardens now includes 15 Church centres offering weekly services, healing ministry, counselling, sewing institutes, and after-school clubs. Central to Hope Gardens is a 24-hour Prayer Ministry, led by prayer warrior Mrs. Packiam.
While our situation in England differs from South India, there are needs here, particularly spiritual ones, and we face less extreme opposition. We can learn from their strong faith and consistent prayer. Hope Gardens aims to become financially independent but remains grateful to Christians, especially in England, for their support over the past 25 years. Thank you to St John’s Mission Fund for the £350 donation to Hope Gardens this year. – Peter Rich
This article originally appeared in the St John’s Messenger. If you would like to discuss contributing a future article please contact news@valebenefice.org.uk.
