In India: Churches Destroyed, Pastors Arrested and Believers Killed

It has been a while since we last brought you updates from India, and the news has been nothing short of heartbreaking. I reached out to local pastors, and here is the summary from four states:

Telangana:
In this state, known for its thriving IT sector and educated population, tragedy struck unexpectedly. Pastor Praveen Pagadala—an apologist who also ran a small IT company—was found dead under circumstances that defy explanation. What was initially reported as an accident now feels like a devastating mystery. Thousands gathered at his funeral, their tears and prayers demanding justice and calling for a thorough government investigation.

Uttar Pradesh:
As I mentioned in a previous article, many pastors have been arrested since 2024. Their families remain in distress and are left in the dark about their cases. These arrests aren’t even being brought before a judge, leaving these pastors imprisoned like criminals while their families struggle outside.

Odisha:
In the village of Ondrubangi, believers were brutally attacked, and their church was vandalized just last week. This scene of violence echoes the deep wounds that continue to scar the community.

Chhattisgarh:
I contacted a local leader who described the situation in a few painful words: “Bad to worse.” I had hoped that after the massive outcry—and the prayers during the time when a Hindu mob called for the killing and rape of Christian villages—things would have calmed down. Unfortunately, the terror continues, with several attacks on churches during Sunday services as mobs invade and harass worshippers.

These examples are just a glimpse of the pain and injustice unfolding in India. I know many of you are praying in your families and churches—please, let us not forget those who are suffering. Our united prayers are our strength in these dark times.