India

The United Brethren work in India goes back to 1974, when an Indian doctor and his wife (it is necessary to refer to them anonymously) came under the UB umbrella. He became Chief Medical Officer at a large Christian hospital, which at the time was limited to Obstetrics and Gynecology. During the next 25 years, the hospital added surgery and a wide range of medical services to surrounding areas. A school of nursing is also connected with the hospital.

The doctor (who has since died) was also involved with a 150-bed leprosy hospital, with many staffpersons and 23 acres of ground. The hospital includes a school with about 165 students who are the children of leprous parents, or parents with AIDS. Because of the stigma of these diseases, these children are not allowed to attend regular schools. The hospital serves many outpatients each year, and performs many reconstructive surgeries.

In 2002, an AIDS center opened on the grounds of the leprosy hospital, as well. The center includes inpatient beds, outpatient services, along with health and spiritual counseling. This center takes patients regularly turned away from other hospitals, and many of these people find Christ there. Our missionary is also reaching out to HIV infected children through Project Compassion giving them a place to live in their final days. There are currently 24 children being helped in that way.

The Beautiful Family Program is a support ministry for children of a parent who has leprosy or AIDS. UB people support about 165 children through this program, sending $20 a month. This cares for the child's food, clothing, education, housing, and medical needs. The program started in 1995 with the children of lepers. In 2002, the program was expanded to include children and orphans of HIV-positive parents.

Emmaus Bible Correspondence Program, started in 1979, offers 14 courses in the Telugu language and six Bible courses for children. Global Ministries and UB people fund three individuals who grade the courses and deal with communication. Over 108,000 Bible courses have been sent out to the people of India, and over 55,000 people have completed the courses. The courses are obtained from the United States and translated into Telegu, the main language in that part of India. Many prisoners take these courses as well.

The United Brethren Church now has many churches and preaching points in rural, predominantly Hindu areas. There have been hundreds of conversions. For some of these tribes, this marked the first time people had heard the message of Christ.

A middle school began in 1992, and has expanded to all twelve grades. There are over 350 students. The goal is to provide quality English education to children who normally couldn't afford it. Seventy percent of the students are Hindus and Muslims.