Twenty-year-old *Ragbir was deeply passionate about spreading the gospel. He often preached in villages far from his own, despite opposition. In one such village, the elders warned him never to return. Uncertain of what to do next, Ragbir sought counsel from his coach and mentor.
Encouraged, Ragbir returned to the village and managed to meet with the elder who had most strongly opposed him. Miraculously, they reached an agreement allowing him to continue his ministry there.
For two months, this peace held. But one day, during a Bible study at Ragbir’s home, attended by his family and fellow believers, the same elder from the village arrived with others. They stormed the house, launching a violent attack. Ragbir and his family, along with the other disciples, were brutally beaten. The police, fearing political backlash from Hindu leaders, refused to intervene.
The attackers struck from behind, giving the disciples no chance to defend themselves. Ragbir sustained a severe head injury and lost consciousness. His mother, wife, brother, sister, and even his young children were among the nine injured in the assault.
Several months later, Ragbir succumbed to his injuries, leaving behind a wife and two children under the age of five. His family has since been expelled from the village. Ragbir was a devoted father and a committed member of the movement, sharing stories of faith and walking faithfully alongside his brothers and sisters in Christ.
This loss has shaken the 18 house churches in the area. Please pray for his wife, still recovering from her injuries, and the rest of his family. Movement leaders in India are in touch with them and are providing financial support as needed. The Listening Movement reports a heartbreaking reality: in 2024, 11 disciples have been martyred. This sobering statistic reflects the intense challenges faced by believers in India. May God strengthen His disciples and bring comfort to Ragbir’s family during their time of profound grief.
*pseudonyms
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