Chain in India

If you were dying of thirst and starvation, would it matter who fed you or gave you water? Yes, if you were from the Chain community in West Bengal, India. The Chain people are very caste-conscious with regard to food fellowship. As landowners, they probably have good status in Hindu society, and there are strong taboos against sharing food and water with those from certain other communities. We do not know if this attitude persists among the very few Christ-followers among them or if it is dying out in today's world.

Ministry Obstacles

Caste-consciousness is an obvious obstacle that limits who may evangelize them. This is one of the reasons why those from the more prestigious castes are not reached. It has been the lower castes who have responded to Christ in the past.

Outreach Ideas

The use of Christian literature and the JESUS Film is caste-neutral, as is music. These would be great tools to show them the ways of Christ. Ideally, someone who is familiar with Bengali-style music could produce worship music that would bless the Chain community.

Scripture Focus

"Now I know that the LORD is greater than all gods, because in this affair they dealt arrogantly with the people."  Exodus 18:11

Scripture Prayer

Pray that non-believers among this people group will be convinced to follow the Lord because of His miracles.

Prayer Focus

Pray the few believers among them would not be caste-conscious, but outgoing in witness and fellowship. Pray that God would open this people to Christian witness and break down the barrier of caste. Pray for the Lord to thrust out His chosen vessels as Christ bearers to the Chain people.