Only about 2.3% of India, one of the most populated countries in the world, is Christian. Unfortunately, Christians in India face many challenges and persecution, and Banka Kranthi, 27, is no exception. Banka was born and raised in Baranipadu, in the district of Khammam in the region of Vemsoor. As a child, his father preached the Gospel, so the Word of God and fear of the Lord was put into his heart at an early age. His father often set out on preaching missions, and through his father’s actions, Banka was able to see the true love of Christ. Banka’s childhood exhibits the importance of parents raising their children in the “way they should go” according to Proverbs 22:6. When his father preached by foot, Banka was able to preserve whatever devotion was preached that day into his heart and mind, and he has never lost it. Moreover, because of his father’s teachings, he lived a clean life. Despite social pressure around him, he never fell into trouble, and he devoted himself to God daily. Of course, India is a multi-faith community, with Hinduism as its most prominent religion. According to the caste system, which still plays a role in India, Christians are perceived as inferior in many ways. Further, though secularism is emphasized, there has been a recent rise in persecution toward Christians, including mockery and physical attacks. In fact, India currently ranks as the 11th worst country to live in terms of Christian persecution. On top of these attacks, his people are often lacking basic necessities, so he has to have… Read More