India

Challenger
Missionaries

Field Address Art & Ruth Morris tfll Ramanathan Street

Fwd. Agt/Development Director D. Eugene Houpt

P.O. Box 215

Danville. IL 61834-0215
Home 217/442-6736 Office 217/446-1542

Kilpauk, Madras
India 600010

THE INDIA CHALLENGER is a quarterly publication of South India Church of Christ Mission

Volume 36

March 1986

Number 1

REPORT ON VISIT TO INDIA

Since our return from India, we have pondered the question as to how we can adequately report on a work so vast and so outstanding as that of the South
India Church of Christ Mission. Words are not

by Gene Houpt
This one we dedicated while there.

a generous gift from F.A.M.E., one building has been

completed.
Others are either under construction or in the

planning stages at this time. We are so thankful for

available to describe it properly, but we are going to

attempt it just the same. In our writings and in our presentations we will seek to tell a story that has really not been told in spite of all the crusades, and all of the visits to the field by Americans. There is a great message of victory for the Lord that is largely unheard by today's world. Come and journey with us as we attempt to give you a very brief report on a
great and extensive work.

the assistance from F. A.M.E. Because of their help a much greater outreach is possible to these very
responsive people.

Upon arriving in Madras for our third visit, it was a joy to look out and see many familiar faces. Of course, we spotted Art and Ruth immediately. Along
with them were some of the faithful staff members

we had come to know and love on our previous visits. It is much like a homecoming, and that feeling prevailed as we visited many of the areas where the
Mission has work being done. During our four week stay in India, we were able to
Alice Houpt and Ruth Morris with a group ofgypsy ladies.

share the joy of several church building dedications.

One of these special occasions was the dedication of the combination meeting house and medical clinic in the Melpar Hills area. This is in the heart of the gypsy work that is so very challenging. As a result of

Our visit in gypsy land had many mountain top experiences, but none quite equaled the trip up Melpet Mountain by automobile. So far as we have been able to determine, this had never been tried before. The mountain is about a mile high, and the winding road to the top covers 18 miles. Usually the journey is made on foot, by motorcycle or Jeep. Art was determined that the four of us - he and Ruth, Alice and I --go to the top to visit the work being done there. He tried to borrow or rent a Jeep. By 9:30 Sunday morning none was yet available. He made the decision to go in the car to the utter astonishment of all involved. Shortly after the trip began, we
learned how difficult the road was to maneuver.

The new building paid for by F.A.M.E. This building is in a prominent spot above the village. It certainly is like a light in the darkness to these eager people.

There were just too many stones to dodge. One of them succeeded in tearing the exhaust system off of the car. But after a short stop, we went roaring on up the mountain. Once on top we were greeted by our two preachers and many of the church members.

Soon we were sharing in a worship service on top of the mountain which included the Lord's Supper with one cup for the fruit of the vine. Then hardly before

we had gotten a second wind, they were ready for a

sermon from the American visitor. A great work is

being done by our preachers up on the mountain, but it is a lonely life for them. They are very much cut off
from the rest of the world, but there are thousands of

village people in these mountain areas waiting for the Gospel to be brought to them. Many of these people make their living by gathering firewood. They carry the wood on their head down the mountain to villages to sell it. We are talking about very poor people who have the opportunity to become rich in Christ. Your support for this evangelistic outreach is needed to share the good news with the many
thousands who are eager to hear. We four Americans were in
Madras for

'ik L
Gene Houpt leading a seminar for preachers.

joy to have this opportunity, and it was interesting to relate these lessons to preachers and students in a
culture so different from ours. At the close of the

Thanksgiving Day. Of course, this is a very American holiday, and Art and Ruth were determined to make it a special event for all of us. After much searching. Art finally found a turkey in the city. He had even gone to the American Embassy where it had been published some were available. The grand old bird turned out very tasty with all the usual trimmings. A special guest shared the day with us. This was our lady doctor who is doing the surgery for crippled children at Christian Hospital. This fine lady donates her services every Friday to this work, and we are now beginning to see some of
the results ofher labors. It was a great opportunity to get better acquainted with her.
Two other festive events were on the calendar before we left India. The staff and students at

seminar at Southern Asia Christian College, the

honorary degree Doctor of Divinity was conferred on me. This was a very solemn and meaningful service which will always be remembered with gratitude. Alice had the joy of speaking with the women on a few occasions. She tried to encourage them in their
role. She reminded them that Jesus had one human

parent - His mother. Women have an insignificant position in the Indian culture which does not give them their rightful respect. Here are just a few of the many other things that
come to mind as we reflect on the visit to India: the

Southern Asia Christian College had their annual Christmas dinner. Also the staff of Christian

Hospital and the children's homes had their big

gathering at Madrapakkam. It took two goats to make the curry for that meal. We had some good fellowship with a lot of the workers at both of these
events.

literacy classes in the villages where even very elderly people are eager to read for the first time . . . the look ofhope in the eyes ofthe gypsies as they asked for suggestions for being able to make a living . . . the healthy looking young people who now are eating and learning instead of foraging for paper and rags from garbage cans . . . the willingness of the boys to help "earn their keep" by raising
chickens and making straw mats . . . the eagerness of the Gospel Team boys to share the good news of Jesus Christ . . . the gratitude of the lepers at the Christian Hospital when any kind of attention is given to them . . . and the list goes on and on and
on. And how thankful we are that Art and Ruth

While speaking of Christmas, you might be

interested in some observations of what it is like to be

in a pagan land during the Christmas season. The only places we saw or heard any signs of Christmas
were in two Christian book stores. Otherwise, there

are no decorations, no carols being sung, none of the joyous bustle of getting ready for this special ob
servance. Sometimes we get caught up in all the confusion and fail to realize what a beautiful

Morris have given of themselves to serve the Lord in India. As we have said many times before, your servants in India have gotten the most out of every dollar given for this work. It is hard to comprehend
how so much has been done with such a modest

privilege it is to celebrate the coming of our Lord. In a

land where Jesus is known by so few you begin to understand what it would have been like for all the
world if Jesus had not come.

budget. God has multiplied your gifts in the care of His faithful workers to produce results for His glory beyond our fondest dreams. It was our joy to once again see just a few of these many accomplishments
first-hand. We are thankful for having had this

Teaching and preaching are activities I have always enjoyed immensely. I had a number of oppor
tunities to do both while in India. A number of the

experience, and we look forward to the opportunity of sharing with many of you in person at some future
date.
Editor's note: Gene and Alice Houpt visited the field in India during November and December 1985. They are now available for

preachers gathered at Madrapakkam for three days.

During their stay, I spent one full day presenting a
seminar on the life and work of the Christian

speaking dates with a new slide program of India and the work.
Some dates are left in 1986. Give them a call at (217) 446-1542 or write to them at the office of South India Churchof Christ Mission,
P.O. Box 215, Danville, IL 61834-0215.

minister. This was also presented during a three day period at Southern Asia Christian College. It was a

LITERACY PROGRAMS IN FULL OPERATION

In our last issue we introduced you to the

opportunity of adult literacy schools. We informed you that the government is urging these programs.
Since this is a work we have been involved with for

many years, it is an opportunity to expand our programs while at the same time pleasing the government. These programs are now in full swing and making great progress. How wonderful it is to watch even very old people eager to learn how to read. In a recent phone call from Art, he said this literacy program is now operating in at least 175 villages. When we first reported on this, we said our goal was to get the program going in 100 villages. Even without sufficient financing, we have been able to exceed that goal. We praise the Lord for helping make this great progress possible, and we thank those of you who have responded to the challenge to

help in this proj ect. If there are others who would like to help as more literacy schools are started, the cost for a five month program in a village is $50.00. We are often getting by on less than that by having volunteer workers and doing without adequate aids. Art said recently, "We will go ahead with the program with what funds we have, but it would be nice to pay the teachers a little bit. And it would help a lot to have some oil for the lamps." So your gift to this project will just help open a whole new world to
those who can learn to read.

Art & Ruth Morris preparing materials for the literacy

schools.

A literacy school in progress in one of the villages. Here the teacher is instructing a young lady. She was catching on quickly.

NEEDS FOR SUPPLIES CHANGED

For many years faithful helpers have sent clothing, bandages, medicine bottles, medicines and other supplies to help with the work in India. The needs have changed as well as regulations. Here is an update on items we can and cannot use.
DO NOT SEND

USED LITERATURE WE CAN USE

Copies of Christian Standard Copies of Restoration Herald

Visual aid packets Copies of 2's & 3's Flannelgraph materials

Clothing Bandages
Medicine bottles DO SEND

Copies of Bible Teacher & Leader in limited quantity

We still need help in purchasing books on micro
fiche. Now there is one micro fiche reader in India for

use in reading the film. We have only one book on

film so far. Each book on micro fiche film costs about $10.00.

Books for college. Crayons & pencils for children's homes Filmstrip lessons - broken sets are welcome.

CLOTHING FOR CHILDREN CAN BE PURCHASED

On the streets of Madras there are many vendors of used clothing. It costs about $10.00 to outfit a boy, and we need to purchase three outfits per year. This is less costly than the postage used to be for sending
used clothing. Thus, there is a way to meet the needs. We offer this as a suggested project for classes or individuals who want something definite within reach of their ability to help.

HOSPITAL PROGRESS
One evening a call came in from Art Morris. His

While Gene and Alice Houpt were in India, word came

of the very unexpected death of Raldo Cook. Just a little less than a year before, Raldo had been in India preaching and teaching. The people ofIndia were also very saddened to learn of the death of this servant of the Lord. Raldo had made a vital contribution to the work in India on his two visits. He also served in a faithful way as minister of the First Christian Church at Odon, Indiana. This is the church that has handled
much of the stateside work for the children's homes for

cheerful voice from India began the conversation by saying, "The water is running at the hospital." Cer tainly this was welcome news. The present hospital
building was started in 1973, and it had never had
running water in it before this winter. Now the

operating theater not only has the running water,

but the ceramic tile is on the floors and walls.

Regular surgeries are being performed.

How

thankful we are for those who have given matching gifts for this project. There is much more to be done, and the work will continue as funds permit. But we rejoice for the facilities that are now in working order for the treatment of so many more people with a
variety of physical needs.

almost 20 years. To Mrs. Cook and family, to the Odon Church, and to the many other relatives and friends of
Raldo, we of South India Church of Christ Mission

extend our very sincere sympathy.

"Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord . . ."

NEW OFFICE ADDRESS

f
One of our lady doctors caring for a leper patient at
Christian Hospital.

The stateside office of South India Church of Christ Mission has moved down the street three

blocks. For sending packages, please note the address for parcels is 424 N. Gilbert St., Danville, IL
61832. The address for all other mail remains P.O.

Box 215, Danville, IL 61834-0215.

c cu
3 o

,2

05

"

cc
oTO

-SxSZ

n >n ^ j =^ oH .
-O _- *< -p. Tf"
O C CM

:= -o < g

-5-2

Farmers preparing a rice paddy for planting.

Hag"
2<
o
^ 03

n W ^
>T>

O) 03 S

CI

CO O

O C-H =

Xt

>

t-coJ 2 g

S|

7' f.

'

a? IS

2 J" d
?> CM a; --

""Szll S i
2 ^

Figures like this are a common sight in India. Many people believe these are needed to keep the evil spirits
away.

Q S v<< s c "C a S 5 H Si H -2 E a) C O o
E- t/!

Cl< CO

India

Challenger
Missionaries Field Address

Fwd. Agt/Development Director D. Eugene Houpt

P.O. Box 215

Art & Ruth Morris

#11 Ramanalhan Street

Danville. IL 61834-0215
Home 217/442-6736 Office 217/446-1542

Kilpauk, Madras
India 600010

THE INDIA CHALLENGER is a quarterly publication of South India Church of Christ Mission

Volume 36

June 1986

Number 2

GREETINGS FROM ART AND RUTH MORRIS

Dear friends in Christ:

We are now back in the U.S.A. for a short time (10 weeks) so we can participate in the North American Christian Convention/National Missionary Con

vention. We have a workshop and a prayer breakfast and hope you who attend can come to these sessions. Also, we will be at booth 134-136 every day. There will be room to visit, so please stop by. We would like to stay longer and speak in your churches, but it is impossible at this time. We left India when the last college exam was over, and we must be back by July 25th for the opening of college classes and to enroll our boys and girls in school.

Southern Asia Christian College had a great graduating class this year. There were 17 fine young preachers sent out to help win India for our Lord. It has been many years now that no new missionaries have been allowed into India. Ail the help and staff that are evangelizing India must be trained in India as foreign missionaries are banned. The children's homes graduated 23 fine boys and girls this year. We are happy to share the surprise we had on the annual Boys' Home Day. All 23 who were graduating came together and gave us a chicken curry dinner as a token of their love and concern. A
few of them have been in the homes for five or seven

years, but most of them have been 11 years in our homes. This is the first time they have ever thought to do this. To honor you who have made it possible, we ate the chicken and rice while assuring them of your best wishes for a happy future life. April 25th was a great day in India. We finally dedicated the new Crippled Children's Hospital
Unit. This has taken 18 months of hard work to

Art Morris presiding at dedication program.

Participants in graduation program at Southern Asia Christian College.

accomplish. We had to install a new plumbing system for the hospital. This required a new pump, tank and many pipes. Then we had to chip up the old cement and put in new mosaic floors. There were many new walls and 12 new doors, but it happened!!!

'0

The health minister being welcomed.

The health minister of our state of 55 million

people came to participate in this thrilling event. Also, the American Consul came and gave a message praising you folk for helping this needy cause. Our local senator (MLA) came and praised the good work of the hospital in the past and spoke of the great hopes for the future. Even the governor sent a special letter of congratulations. The accompanying

pictures help tell the story of this great event. In all,

over 500 guests came for the function.
Yours in Christ,
Art and Ruth Morris

SOUTH INDIA CHURCH OF CHRIST MISSION

Crippled young girl waiting

for surgery.

Art Morris with American Consulate representative.

A group of mothers with crippled children.

Our surgeon for crippled children is lady on right.

THE GROWTH PLAN FOR 1986-1987:

ESTABLISH HOUSE CHURCHES
by Arthur Morris
We plan to start at least 1,000 house churches in South India. This plan got underway at the beginning of 1986. Already at mid year we have over 200 house churches functioning. The idea is
catching on like fire, and it is so wonderful since it is a New Testament plan. The women and young people are most happy as now there is a definite place
for them.

We prepared printed material in the language of the people on the subject of House Churches. The summary of the material is:
Who can start a house church?

You can start a church in your home.

When should I start? NOW!

The program got underway in Madras City. Now there are groups meeting in homes, rented apartments and even in the back yards. At the
present each house church works around a church

building, school or hall so there is a central place

large enough to accommodate all at one time and

spread out farther. This method is different to you folk in America and may not be acceptable in the states. But it works in this part of India. The field of India is wide open for evangelism and conventional methods are not adequate. Just think! Madras City has five and a half million population. Greater Madras within a twenty mile radius is now over ten million. So our problems are considerable. We work with 125 million people in a four state area. With the continual problem of limited funds and limited staff we have to come up with some
unusual answers.

place for special functions.

problems:

This solves many

The house church plan is a special answer to special problems. And it is a plan that fits well into
the Asian culture where the family is the center of everything. Instead of breaking the family to get a new convert, he stays in the family and thus can win them to Christ. This is the web principle which church growth leaders use everywhere.

1. Land and buildings are not required for every small village or area of Madras City. 2, It increases the usefulness and ministry of existing preachers by giving them many help
ing hands.

Thus, each evangelist is now an equipper or trainer

and can reach up to fifteen areas. Some have three house churches, and those with more ambition

Please pray for these new churches in their spiritual growth. And we ask your prayers for us, your servants on the field. We need your prayers for the work we are now doing and for the future plans for continued growth.

CHURCH GROWTH PLAN: ANDHRA CHRISTIAN CHURCH MOVEMENT

by Ruth Morris
For the past 200 years, most of the Christian work
given talent as God would have it used - to become

in India has been with the poor and backward people of India - the downtrodden, the helpless. Now on record there are 25 million Christians (using the
broadest possible definition) out of the 800 million
people of India.

Christian leaders and lead India into great revival. Some forms of persecution used in the past are still present today to oppress the Christians. They are
poisoned or given ground glass so that death is certain. The hardest part of it all is to know that one stands alone except for God Himself. No one will be there to help or to understand why Christ was accepted. This aloneness is fearful in a country

At last a door has opened to us in Andhra Pradesh State to win the high caste people for Jesus Christ. These Hindus have witnessed how Christianity has helped the poor and outcast people. So now they are
open to receive God's message to them.
Most of those who become Christians are

where community, caste and family are everything.

Togetherness takes top priority in India. We must pray for these brave people who have stepped out for
the Lord.

landlords, shop keepers and business men. They need our love, prayers and guidance so they can set about winning the other 45 million high caste men
and women of Andhra.

Our way of helping has been to start the Andhra

Christian Church. We chose this name as a means

Once this idea that high caste people can become Christians is realized, then it will spread from state
to state, from north to south and from east to west.

of uniting all people who love Jesus Christ and who will follow His Holy Word. This is an Indian church

and has no denominational leaning. The Indian

man or leader brings his family into the church. Then he reaches out to relatives, friends, and other interested people. Thus, the new convert has the

Most of the Christians are now in the South. Wepray this new plan will be more effective in reaching into
all parts of India.

support of his own people to help him stand against

persecution and the wiles of the Devil. These congregations claim the slogans "No creed but the

The groups most open to the Gospel now are the Kamas, Naidus and Reddy Castes. These people are the politicians, bankers and landlords of Andhra.
They seem to be bom leaders. So let us use this God

Christ, no book but the Bible" and love to all saved by

the blood of Christ.

Our first plan to interact with this group is to invite the caste converts to the state capital, Hyderbad.
There they will get acquainted with each other. From here they will arrange meetings all over the state. In this state of 60 million people (45 million ofwhom are high caste) we need to be able to recognize the
Christians as well as those who are about to become

they made a life story of us in India.

The gathering included three generations and all these have shared in building the church in India. Some of our first students are still with us, and their children are now the main preaching force. The third generation children are now ready to face the future. Just wish you could have seen the large flower
garland.

Christian. This will give strength and solidity to this Christian movement. It will bring courage to the
hearts of the new believers.

This movement is a spiritual one and has no connection to a political platform. It will only help to liberate these wonderful, talented people from Satan
and help them become true children of God. We especially need your prayers for this new

NEWS BULLETIN!!
There is persecution in Gypsy Land!

This is the first time the strong Hindu majority headed by R.S.S., the radical wing of the Hindus,
have interfered and burned Bibles. We had distributed over 30,000 Bibles and New Testaments

venture and your continued interest and support. Especially pray for our preacher, Bro. Reddy, who is
such great help in this movement. Our God is a wonderful God. He is able to keep and sustain us.

in the area. Thousands were gathered up by the

radicals and burned in hugh fires in the town of Chengam.

The radicals did not want the Gypsy camps to

ART MORRIS REFLECTS

accept Jesus Christ and felt that this persecution would stop them. They beat the preachers with

ON FORTY ONE YEARS IN THE MINISTRY

At the close of the annual convention of the

bamboo clubs and threatened the young people with

knives.

The Gypsy leaders took over the problem. Now our men are distributing new copies of the Bible and preaching daily.

Churches of Christ in South India, we were surprised and pleased when the preachers and church leaders planned a special dinner party for us to celebrate my birthday and my 41 years in the ministry. It was 41 years ago that I started my ministry at the Walnut Grove Christian Church at Salem, Indiana. I had just completed my first year of Bible College, and this wonderful church gave the young,
inexperienced preacher the call to be their minister. I was also called as part-time preacher at the Antioch Christian Church, Washington, Indiana.
From there we went on to the Church of Christ at

c ea <N .2
3 o to

K ^ .2

-c
"

^
o
(N
(N
t-H

2 toZ nj <U C Oh
TH o

o 05 co

T3

Lawrenceburg, Indiana, and then on to India. For 36 years we have been ministering to these friends, and

-S.2

C ^ ^ (N

_r

T"

12:

l"o
2 < bo
o
CO O

^
0)
O E-I 3

> X
o

CO S

w
l> (M

s W

g
-

MAILING ADDRESSES
LETTERS & CONTRIBUTIONS:

M C O
CC

s c

CL, .2 T3 S

(N

DJ 8

PQ

SOUTH INDIA CHURCH OF CHRIST MISSION

P.O. Box 215

PL.

2|c2 d
O)

Danville, IL 61834-0215

J S 0) -pH Q JO " ^

-M

CO

0)

FOR PACKAGES:

" cz u U < 1
5 B=s s
9 S <<

Pi
05 l> lO CO

SOUTH INDIA CHURCH OF CHRIST MISSION

424 N. Gilbert St.

tlsl

B
u

Danville, IL 61832

India

Challenger
Miaaionaries Field Address

Fwd. Agt/Development Director

D. Eugene Houpt
P.O. Box 215

Art & Ruth Morris

011 Rainanathan Street

Danville, IL 61834-0215
Home 217/442-6736 Office 217/446-1542

Kilpauk, Madras
India 600010

THE INDIA CHALLENGER is a quarterly publication of South India Church of Christ Mission

September, 1986

Bible School Classes, Mission Groi Individuals Please help the 22 children in our Bible Schools have a Hap
Christmas.

CHRISTMAS IN INDIA
All gifts are
tax deductible.

$5.00 will

1. A Specia
2. A Bible

^ Increase your joy and g theirs with a gift and

P teachingthat will last an
5^ eternity.

3. A Song E 4. A Toy
for One (

^ MakechecksoultoSouthlndia X Church of Christ Mission. ^ Send (designated for Christ^ mas) gift to:
SOUTH INDIA CHURCH
CHRIST MISSION PO BOX 215 DANVILLE.il 61834-0215

\
m I

OF

STEWARDSHIP AND UTILIZATION OF FINANCIAL RESOURCES

By Howard J. Hu^es Chairman of the Board of Trustees
BIBLE HAS MUCH TO TEACH US The Bible has much to teach us about God's

blessing and using our resources. The disciples of Jesus needed to feed 5,000 people. It wasn't a question of adding more water to the soup or cutting the pie in smaller pieces. They didn't have the food. Andrew brought a lad to Christ that had only 5 barley loaves and 2 small fish. Jesus blessed the food. After everyone had eaten, 12 baskets of
fragments were left over. (John 6:5-14)

In the parable of the talents (Matt. 25:14-30), the master gave $5,000 to one servant, $2,000 to another, and $1,000 to the last - dividing it in proportion to their ability. The man who used wisely what he was given received more, and he had abundance. But one
man was afraid he would lose the little he had. He didn't make the best use of it. And the master took it
from him.

These verses suggest our responsibility to the Lord concerning utilization of our finances and resources. We need to manage to the best of our ability the
resources God has entrusted to us. ''SPECIAL FOUNDATION PROGRAM"

Gene Houpt is presenting a tape copier to Art Morris. This came as a gift from the H.O.P.E. Class of First Christian
Church, St. Ann, MO. Art was able to take the machine back to India for immediate use.
The Mission needs individuals or churches that

REQUESTED

About 3 years ago Art Morris asked me to spend the time necessary to research and develop a program that would lay a firm financial
foundation for the work of the Mission both

currently and for the future. Many times in India opportunities to witness for the Lord could not be grasped, opportunities to expand had to be dropped and other open doors of opportunity had to be by passed because of a lack of funds. It was obvious in trustees' meetings the development of a "Financial Foundation Program" was so vital and important in the area of finances. This financial fund could provide a base or foundation for the future, enabling the Mission to be better stewards of money and opportunities of service. The result would be more prudent planning and greater victories for the Lord. After doing a great deal of research, the trustees have approved a Foundation Plan for the development of a financial fund. The target is $250,000. The fund will be used to support all areas of the work -- Evangelism and Church Development, Children's Homes, Southern Asia Christian College, and the Christian Hospital.
THE MISSION NEEDS YOUR PRAYERS
AND SUPPORT

could make a large one-time gift, but the primary objectives of our Foundation Fund are three fold: 1) Provide a way for the person of average or modest means to make a large gift to the
work of the Mission over a period of months or even a lew years (4,5,6 years etc.) 2) Enable the average person to accomplish something great with their smaller gifts and offerings. 3) Multiply, if possible by 3 to 5 times, a

portion of each offering through the creation

of a special fund for the future.
NO GIFT IS TOO SMALL

However, the Mission needs individuals that could make a one-time gift or could give $500 or $1,000 per year for 5,6 or more years. Also, as a result of the new tax law this could be the best year to make a gift of appreciated property-stocks or land. It is not good stewardship on the part of a Christian to pay money in taxes that could go to the work of the Lord's Kingdom. To make a gift to the Foundation Fund or for
more information call the Mission office at (217) 446-

South India Church of Christ Mission needs your

prayers and your financial support to accomplish this objective of developing a Foundation Fund of
$250,000.

1542 or just drop us a note requesting information on the Foundation Fund. We have experienced and

qualified personnel who can assist you and your

advisors in financial planning.

INDIANS APPRAISE HOSPITAL AND CHILDREN'S WORK

Sometimes it helps to know how a work is accepted by the people of the country in which the work is being done. About a year ago a Tamil newspaper in South India published their own evaluation of the work being done by South India Church of Christ
Mission under the direction of Art and Ruth Morris.

Following are their comments about the hospital and

the children's homes:

If the success of a hospital can be counted, then Christian Hospital at Madrapakkam has achieved
it.

In the field of leprosy over 29,000 lepers have been cured. Now it is no longer a problem to walk through the streets of seeing bad cases. Now it (leprosy) is in its last stages of cure and thanks to the founders and
donors.

In the field of maternity and child welfare, this same success is noted, and the ones who started this in 1950 are now the pioneers in the field. Thousands have been saved and the people know where to go for help. The last is a new incubator imported from the U.S.A. so that any premature baby can be saved. The Well Baby Clinic is a real joy to many mothers in the far away place of Madrapakkam. This new Crippled Children Hospital is a boon to our poor and backward area. Already hundreds of cases are pending waiting operation with foreign

A leper patient at Christian Hospital. Efforts are continuing to completely eradicate leprosy from South

India in ^e next five years.

trained pediatrician who is also a famous orthopedic specialist. No one but Madrapakkam would think of bringing this expert to this lonely backward place. It

The homes have always insisted on physical education and has developed a program for the women students too. It is a sad plight that in the school age group of women in India, only 36% get any education at all, and only 26% get any high school education. Education of women is so important to the welfare and future of India. Only this way will the next generation be stronger and build a great free
India.

should be given an official award for this service and

a special thanks to the donors.
The over 400 children of this forgotten area in North Chingleput District have been blessed with the angelic work of the missionaries and their dedicated staff for over 30 long years.
The real test is in the lives of the several thousand

We thank the Boys and Girls Homes of India for their great service to these poor areas and also to the people of India.

fine citizens of the country that would not be here if this home with only one home, and now seven, had
not been started.

It was no use to complain about the backward situation of this poor area. It is near Madras City, but literally hundreds of years away in education and help.
This home has never concentrated on intellectual

^
/

/IL

:if

achievements, but on training character and good citizenship. Some (meaning individual children) have achieved high academic marks. But considering their backgrounds, it has taken them from where they were to making them citizens that
India is proud of. This home has provided enough food to feed an

m
One of many crippled children waiting for help in the newly opened unit at Christian Hospital.

army in these years, and so many clothes, books and

most of all lessons in life and love.

Each student was tapped by their leaders to develop the best that is within them.

RETURNING TO INDIA
The return trip to India turned out to be filled with anxiety. For days we expected to receive the passports for Art and Ruth from the Chicago office of the India Consulate with the return visa stamped in them. But they never came! After the convention came to an end, Art and Ruth left to visit some friends in Phoenix. They had made a number of phone calls to Chicago and to India in an effort to clear up the visa problem. All were to no avail. Then they personally went to Chicago to pick up the passports, but the return visa was not stamped. It was difficult to understand the problem since all was in order for their permission to remain in India. All they needed was the official permission to get back into the country. Finally, there was nothing left to do

The building that houses Southern Asia Christian College.

but go back without the visa hoping the matter could be resolved upon arrival. This was certainly a dangerous thing to do. Itispossibletobe jailed when attempting to enter without a visa. But the Lord provided His wonderful care. Art and Ruth were allowed to enter and then report to the consulate in Madras the following Monday. At that time they were granted the re-entry visa. Many associates in India had spent days trying to resolve the problem in India while the Morrises were working on it at this end. Even at this time we do not understand why this added burden had to be dealt with, but all of us are thankful to God that Art and Ruth had a safe journey back ti) India. And we are certainly thankful that the
officials there dealt with them in a
manner.

Wfi
Ruth Morris in the library of Southern Asia Christian College.
"O r- 5 c C8 N .2
w CO i-a

reasonable

3 O ;5" CD

X bS ^ u u 2 o
y

4> OS
00

oO

sa: = 2
U

> M

CO lO 5 n
O

.2 O ^ ca"C < OT

V < (N * T" 0) C ^ -'h CM

a u5 "-2
w 4> 2 52 ^ bo r o
to

CO u

(A X

pm

o F-i =

S a3 2

XI

> X
-

Gospel Team boys eager to carry the Gospel into the remote
areas of South India.

Oh .2 -O 5

CO c V

MAILING ADDRESSES
LETTERS & CONTRIBUTIONS:

OS

10

$ g

2 J" d

SOUTH INDIA CHURCH OF CHRIST MISSION

P.O. Box 215

j is c
a: Q Q aU o

Danville, IL 61834-0215
FOR PACKAGES:

SOUTH INDIA CHURCH OF CHRIST MISSION

424 N. Gilbert St.

- s >p g
E- CO

wS g > X g- c O s

0. CO

Danville, IL 61832

India

Challenger
Missionaries Field Address Art & Ruth MorriB

Fwd. Agt/Development Director D. Eugene Houpt

P.O. Box 215

ffll Ramanathan Street

DanviUe, IL 61834-0215
Home 217/442-6736

Kilpauk, Madras
India 600010

Office 217/446-1542

THE INDIA CHALLENGER is a quarterly publication of South India Church of Christ Mission

December, 1986

Number 4

OUR

SPECIAL TRIP

IN

INDIA

By Doug and Glenda Scudder

Editor's note: Doug and Glenda Scudder were in India for several weeks during the summer of 1986. You will find this report of their experiences very interesting. Doug is a pharmacist and Glenda is a school teacher. Glenda, the daughter of Dick and Wilma Smith, spent most of her youthful years on mission fields with her parents. The Scudders live at Elnora, Indiana.

The Hindu said:

"Do you see this heavy leather belt and metal buckle? I'm going to beat you with it because you are preaching about Jesus." "What? You won't stop? Well then we'll see how many people will come to listen once we burn all those bibles you've just distributed to everyone in the village. We'll beat you and some of the others who are teaching this heresy from this book."

Many Indians live in accommodations like this thatched

hut, which is actually a church building.

The Hindu said:

I'm telling you to turn this man out onto the street. You are not to rent this house to him any longer."
The Muslim said:

"And why should I listen to you? I am a Muslim. I

hate Hinduism. You are no friend of mine. You have

Art, Doug and Glenda pictured with some of the gypsies who are turning to Christ. They are being threatened by
the radical Hindus who have even burned the Bibles these

no authority over me and my affairs. This man is my friend. Don't bother me with this rivalry again." Jesus said: "Blessed are you, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake." (Matt. 5:11) The preacher and the convert: "We must have the baptisms soon; the R.S.S. have seen you in town and have gone to get reinforcements. By evening the town will be full of
them."

people possessed.

Jesus said: "What I tell you in darkness, that speak ye in light: and what ye hear in the ear, that preach ye upon the housetops. And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell." (Matt. 10:27,28)

"Do you believe Jesus is the Christ?" "Yes, I do." "Do you understand how serious this decision is?" "Yes, I know that my Hindu family will bar me from their association and may try to kill me. "Will you visit the temples and worship the idols there?" "No, I will serve Jesus. He will be my God and saviour. I
want to be obedient to Him."

11
These believers accepted Christ in the Chengam area a family, and a policeman.

Jesus said: "And ye shall be hated of all men for

my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall
The girls are delighted with their new skirts and blouses.

be saved." (Matt. 10:22) The meaning of these scriptures and the faithfulness of God in His promises have become much more meaningful to us since we went to India. India is a country where poverty and diseases are abundant. But the people who become Christians have more to fear than hunger or disease. Persecution is real. And yet, the Church continues to grow. Yes, there are "curiosity seekers" and "problem children" but we were thrilled by the spirits of the Christians who are alive and well, growing in faith, and excited about the battle that is being waged against satan. _ -Our purpose in going to India was to help in a work
that has been known to us all of our lives. We wanted

Doug and Aruldoss made picnic style tables and

benches for the children's homes. This was not as

easy as it first appeared. Used 2x4's from packing crates were purchased (by the kilogram). Once they were taken to the village the real work began. All the
work was done with hand tools.

to see it for ourselves and let the Lord use us in ways

we'd not tried before.

HELP GIVEN...Many of our tasks were very

physical necessities of daily life. Glenda supervised the making of clothing for the children. It was always a challenge what could be made from the assortment of cloth scraps? The completed shirts, shorts, blouses, and skirts were eagerly accepted by the children at an "official" presentation. We enjoyed their eagerness to try on the new apparel and
pose for pictures.
Doug is proud to say that even used boards with points on both ends can be transformed into very usable tables and benches. It just takes a little prayer and a lot of perserverance. These are all the legs and braces for 10
benches and several tables.

We're proud of very sturdy tables and benches that the

The boys wear their new uniforms proudly.
homes are able to use for eating and studying.

Aruldoss and the gardeners haven't worked so hard, long and fast as they did during those three weeks. But the project had to be finished before we left and we were all very proud of the results. ENCOURAGING CHRISTIANS...B^ sides physical help, we tried to encourage the Christians in their spiritual growth. We grew too. Doug is a pharmacist in the States. He was challenged when he was invited to give daily devotions at the hospital. The Thompson Chain Reference Bible was given a thorough workout as was the illustration book he'd taken, suspecting he'd be asked to preach. And yes, there were about 10 occasions that called for full length sermons. It was a daily exercise in faith and a growing experience to find appropriate messages. Glenda is quite at home in the classroom so she enjoyed daily lessons with the girls in the evening and boys in the morning. It was a new experience to hear the funny voices she used for her puppets being mimicked as the translator repeated the lessons. The children were so receptive that it was a real joy to
work with them.

Dr. Chandra and Dr. Villaligan working with patients in the hospital at Madrapakkam.

clinics. We went out with Dr. Villaligan to some of the clinic sites. The villagers were eager to give us a tour of their village as well as their homes. At some sites Glenda played her autoharp and sang while the people waited to be treated.

Singing was enjoyed by everyone, so it was a big part of our time together. Glenda taught several English choruses and left a tape full of more to learn. She will probably be remembered for singing about "Living Water." It was first heard by the preachers of the area at their all night prayer meeting. They told her that this song had a message that was needed by the Indian people and so it was requested at every Church meeting. A SPECIAL TREAT...One of the highlights of our sightseeing expeditions was our tour of Vellore. We were able to spend a few days there visiting the CMC Hospital and the leprosy work at Karigiri. Our Scudder name is well respected there and we claimed our shirt-tail relationship to Dr.
Ida Scudder who was the founder of it all.

A CHALLENGING SIDE TRIP... While

in the Vellore area we were able to take a drive down

Welcome to Madrapakkam! Jasmine garlands around the necks of Doug and Glenda Scudder were delightfully
fragrant "welcome" gifts.

to Chengam and visit the work with the gypsies. We

were not able to stay but a few hours, but it was well

worth the time to meet the gypsies, the preachers, and the gospel team who were working with them. What a challenge! Not only to reach the gypsies
but to withstand pressure from radical Hindus who
have discovered that the Bible is a book to be feared.

Glenda and Doug enjoyed having devotions with the patients and the staff at the hospital daily. The hospital was doing great work with the equipment and medicine at hand. As a pharmacist, Doug was
curious to see the medication used in India. The

VILLAGE HOSPITAL WORK...The work at the hospital at Madrapakkam impressed us. Dr. Chandra, a pediatric orthopedic surgeon, had

drugs were very similar to the ones used in the States. God is blessing the people of India through the hospital and its staff.
A LOOK AT THE BIBLE COLLEGE... The Bible college in Madras was a surprise to us. We were delighted to see the buildings and the students at the college. The daily chapel service, in which we were asked to participate, was a time where the
students and staffs love of the Lord showed. Each

just started performing operations at the hospital. By the time we had left she had performed ten operations, all of which were sucessful. Her Christian attitude and professionalism were easily seen in her work with the people at the hospial. Another part of the hospital work was the mini

student and staff member was expected to have the

CONCLUSIONS... We found the work in India to be fascinating, frustrating, and well-founded in faith. The few weeks we spent there have made a lasting impression on our lives. We appreciate the sacrifices made by our business partner, family and friends. Without their help we could not have gone. The sacrifices made by you who support the work in India are not in vain. Your prayers and money have enabled the Lord to touch many lives.
CHRISTMAS PROJECT GREAT SUCCESS

So many of you responded to the project to help provide a special Christmas gift for some ofthe thou
sands of Sunday School children in South India. We
An important aspect of the work is training future leaders. The Bible College has quite adequate facilities.
were able to send funds for 1500 children before

Christmas. Thank you so very much.

VIDEO TAPE AVAILABLE
We now have a video of the work in South India.

message when it was their turn. The microfiche in the library, the only one in India, will be a great help
to the students as soon as more books and materials are available to be used with it.

The staff members were very nice to us and each one shared with us on the topics they taught, and on their own history. We met most of the students who come from all parts of India. There was one student
who was from Nigeria, Africa.

The program runs about 20 minutes and will give you a general overview of the work. If you could use the
tape for a program or a series of informational programs, just let us know your needs. We will be

The Bible college and staff showed us the planning and foresight that Art and Ruth and the mission have had in their plans for India. Through the college they are preparing young men to further spread God's Word in India.

glad to loan you one for a period of time. In some cases a church might like to keep a tape in the church library for helping to inform new members. For a small gift to help cover the cost, we will gladly send you a tape to keep. Send your requests to P.O. Box 215, Danville, IL 61834.
c .2
3 O

i> c t~- S

_c >^0 S o t ^ O
ra fc,
C.

u
cc CC
-J

41

bo" Ci3

I- O 41 O
2

oH

0) C ^ K <N 5 -2 ^ CO CTJ

.2< 60^ : CO ^
O
-^ CO

CO aiia 4>

PT*

CO O

O H

Art and Ruth stand with Ragu, Masi, Glenda, Doug, Arludoss and Moses. We have made friends of our Indian brothers in Christ. We will not forget them. MAILING ADDRESSES
LETTERS & CONTRIBUTIONS:

^>

-o>

iijii

sjils
2 SjS'rtd

Oh .2 TS E

SOUTH INDIA CHURCH OF CHRIST MISSION P.O. Box 215

j IS Sc
a- Q ro ^ -

Danville, IL 61834-0215
FOR PACKAGES:
G ^ 4r<< 2 = S w

SOUTH INDIA CHURCH OF CHRIST MISSION

424 N. Gilbert St.

w "I gog>
E-< <X1 ^

S>H S
CU iXi

Danville, IL 61832