I recently visited Velagavalsu in Andhra Pradesh, one of our adopted villages—what an exciting visit!
Witnessing the transformation of the community was remarkable. We dedicated a water well, broke ground for a life center and two houses for needy families, participated in the graduation of skill students, handed out their certificates, and provided gifts to the children.
We are in the final phase of the 5-year adoptive process for this village. During my conversation with the local Pastor, I asked about the major changes in the village due to our initiatives. He shared that Velagavalsu was previously a very backward village. Today, however, there is an active and vibrant church with a growing prayer community. All of which is active in the surrounding villages and hamlets as a result of the outreach and ministry in Velagavalsu.
With land donated for the construction of a life center, I had the privilege of praying with the believers and breaking ground for it. This life center will not only provide a sense of permanence to the ministry here but also serve as tangible evidence of the Kingdom of God in this village.
In most rural communities, women, youth, and children are the most vulnerable, marginalized, and disenfranchised. Women and youth particularly lacked awareness and direction. However, that is not the case today. Our initiatives have empowered them to finally feel free to take part in the development of their community.
Women’s transformation groups have been formed to bring women together for networking, training, and economic development. Entrepreneurship training has now culminated in these women receiving micro-loans for small businesses, making the initiatives sustainable. Livelihood development through skill training has been tremendously helpful and hopeful for the women as they are seeking to start their own micro-businesses.
Through childcare programs like the after-school program and daycare center, children’s education and health have significantly improved. Ante-natal and post-natal care have ensured a considerable decrease in infant and maternal mortality. The counseling and input given to mothers have helped improve maternal nutrition and health.
The village previously lacked roads and drainage. Today, in collaboration with the local government, roads are paved, resulting in proper access to the village for local transportation. The pastor and local leaders are in dialogue with the village government to complete the drainage system, which will have a significant impact on the health and hygiene of the community.
These are some of the highlights I witnessed. This strategic 5-year initiative has created deep inroads into the community, touching lives and transforming health, education, literacy, infrastructure, politics, and the economy of the village. Because of the awareness and interventions, the people have assumed responsibility as equal stakeholders in the development of their community.
At the center of it all and driving this positive change is the local church. Because of this, beyond mere ‘community development’, there is a deeper impact. I can assuredly say the reign of God is extended in this village; that is the ultimate goal of adopting this village and singularly the most significant outcome that truly matters. I witnessed firsthand love, justice, peace, and equality redefining relationships, community living, and serving as the anchor for ongoing development. Praise God!