A team of 14 members from the Northern New England Conference (NNEC) embarked on their 21st mission trip to India from January 12 to February 6, 2025. The trip marked the team’s busiest and most ambitious project to date, with activities spanning five villages in the Southeast Andhra Section.
The mission’s central hub was a prominent village where the team held 15 nights of revival, evangelistic, and children’s meetings. Crowds grew steadily throughout the event, with five groups of three-wheeled “autocabs” arriving at intervals, each packed with as many as 20 people —despite the vehicles being designed to hold only three passengers and a driver. By the final night, it was standing room only.
During the trip, the team visited each of the five villages to host medical clinics and distribute free reading glasses. A record-breaking 73 women from rural areas participated in a life-changing sewing program led by Jeannette Behrmann. Over the course of 10 days, volunteers trained the women to measure, make patterns, sew, and create garments. Donors funded this program by providing $350 per participant. The money provided the participants three meals a day, accommodations, a new sewing machine and table, supplies, fabrics, a syllabus, and a modest sum to start their own home businesses. The skills they gained will enable them to support their families for years to come.
In addition to the sewing program, five new Bible worker and pastor homes were built and dedicated during the trip. These homes, funded by donations from five families, are a vital resource for the hardworking families who minister to the villages daily. Many pastors and their families previously lived in the small back rooms of churches, often without running water or bathrooms.
The team also visited four schools where friends and family of NNEC members sponsor approximately 70 students. Between the schools and the villages, the team distributed all 1,150 Beanie Babies and 800 toy cars they had packed and brought from the United States.
The mission team expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve in India once again and praised God for the safety provided during their extensive travels. They also extended heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported the mission through financial contributions and prayer.
Visit sites.google.com/view/mission-india-2025/home to read a blog highlighting the trip.
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Judy Sabnani, assistant to Harry Sabnani, missions coordinator, Northern New England Conference, and Gleaner staff
