Recently in Uttar Pradesh, a case involving Pastor Pappachan and his wife (both from the state of Kerala) has shown just how dangerous it can be to share the Gospel in India today. They were convicted under the anti-conversion law for allegedly trying to evangelize among the Dalit community and were sentenced to five years in prison with fines. Witnesses reported that while the couple was teaching Bible lessons and offering hope, a mob attacked them, and some of the attackers were later released after an “understanding” was reached.

This incident highlights the severe challenges faced by evangelists in India, where deep-rooted suspicion and hostility toward those who share Jesus’ love can lead to serious consequences. Instead of protecting those who come to faith, local authorities sometimes fail to hold the wrongdoers accountable, leaving dedicated missionaries exposed to danger. This serves as a sobering reminder for all of us in the mission field to pray continually for protection and courage, and to support one another as we work to spread the Gospel.