In northern India, over 1,000 new people flood to the National Capital Region every day. Many of these new NCR residents have relocated from various Indian cities and states in search of better employment prospects (1). However, a recent survey found that 88% of Indians between the age of 15-34 label job security or unemployment as India's biggest issue (2). In addition to questionable job prospects, distancing oneself from friends and family can make relocation a difficult experience.
All of our staff are involved in the facilitation of our weekly time of fellowship. Manohar wrote, “Each one of us have taken up this responsibility willingly and give 100% to ensure we have everything ready for the gatherings.” Sneha, pictured above, welcomes new attendees, ensuring they feel comfortable and at home.
Many of our staff in India have had their own experience of relocation to the NCR. Manohar Paul, who moved to the NCR over a decade ago, reflects on his experience, “Not having a good community to grow with, often young people face depression and are missing real relationships. It became very hard for me to sustain myself without any family or community who could stand by my side or just be there to encourage. I used to feel very lost and lonely in the NCR.”
One of the ways we are responding to the loneliness of this demographic is with a weekly fellowship geared towards their needs and experiences. In addition to a time of worship and prayer, attendees are invited to participate in a topical discussion relevant to their experience. Among our discussion topics this season, we have explored living for God at the workplace and evaluating culture in light of God’s word. Manohar commented that, “The joy of welcoming people each week, and seeing how comfortable they get around each other is one of my favorite moments. It’s encouraging to see them openly share their hearts and encourage each other.”
Moments shared around the table provide opportunities for sharing stories, laughter, and deepening friendships.
At the end of the evening, participants share a meal together. Psalm 133 teaches, “How very good and pleasant it is when kindred can sit together in unity!” The imagery of the text is that of a shared meal, where conversation flows freely and relationships are depended. Manohar said, “Our hope for the year is to grow, in attendance but more importantly in our spirituality. We hope those who are coming may grow deeper in love with God and understand the importance of community.” Please pray for us as we attempt to make a difficult transition good and pleasant.
<1> The Times of India. “How Delhi became the migrant capital of India” Updated: Mar 23, 2018. Accessed Sept 8, 2018. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/how-delhi-became-the-migrant-capital-of-india/articleshow/63424352.cms
<2> The Financial Times. “Youth unemployment bucks India’s rapid growth.” Updated: Apr, 2016. Accessed Sept. 8, 2018. https://www.ft.com/content/ec92d162-04d2-11e7-aa5b-6bb07f5c8e12
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