Keep InTouch (KIT) 1 - OFUESI

OFUESI: Keep InTouch (KIT)

January- March 2021 www.ofuesiusa.org 1

A new leaf … Dear OFUESI Family, Greetings to you all in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ from the editors’ desk. It is humbling to recollect all that transpired in 2020 and conclude emphatically that we experienced God’s abounding faithfulness to OFUESI in a very special way. First and foremost, God had blessed us with a wonderful leader in Bro. Sam Kurapaty who led us through the pandemic in a prayer-saturated and steady manner, turning challenges into opportunities for ministry. We had the privilege of seeing him close range of how much time he gave for the OFUESI ministry and how he displayed servant leadership through it all. He organized a special weekly prayer on COVID sensing the need right away from March 20 through June 5. It was such a blessing to pray as brothers and sisters and to commune with our heavenly Father as OFUESI family. These prayer meetings were in addition to the monthly EC and NC prayer times. As the travel restrictions increased, Bro. Sam and his team (both EC and NC) decided on online conferences in place of our annual regional (in-person) conferences. Our President developed a core team to organize and arrange zoom meetings for our conferences on two weekends back to back, one with Eastern time setting and another with Pacific time setting. Some of us dreamed in the past to organize one national conference at least every four years and we often discussed ideas on how we may achieve that. God amazingly brought people from all parts of the nation to attend online and fellowship with one another in these conferences in 2020. The beauty was that the zoom delivery was seamless and we had a rich time of learning form God’s Word and enjoyed sweet fellowship with so many of our OFUESI families (over 130 connections with multiple participants on a few) whom we may not have known or seen if we only went to our local regional conferences. The COVID world gave us a renewed desire to share the good news of Christ as we were reminded from the theme verse that we have victory over sin and evil

through the Lord Jesus Christ and our labor in the Lord is not in vain. Bro. Sam always reminded us not to be isolated, to take care of our health and fitness, call on one another and encourage, reach out to neighbors and friends and display the love and peace of Christ. With the positive feedback received on the conferences, Bro. Sam arranged another OFUESI seminar on October 24, 2020 with RZIM Canada resource persons Dr. Chris Perumalla and Rev. Daniel Gilman on the theme, Courage and Conviction amidst Crisis and Chaos. To sum up, we went on a high gear accomplishing many transformative experiences for OFUESI family despite the COVID disruption. You will also see the details of the National Council meeting (online) held on December 12, 2020 in this issue. It is a joy to see Bro. Sam accept the unanimous nomination to continue another term as OFUESI President as the entire NC sensed that he is prepared for the mantle at a such a time as this. As much as we know it requires a great sacrifice on his part, he was willingly obedient to our Lord’s calling. Let us praise our Lord for His provision: Bro. Sam’s leadership for OFUESI during 2021 and 2022. Bro. John Victor, UESI President greeted us at the National Council meeting and he said he is from the place of Late Bro. P. Sathkeerthi Rao (Kurnool). We wanted to bring from the annals of KIT a refreshing message from this great statesman, one of the UESI pioneering field staff duo with Uncle PC Verghese. We will feature in the next KIT what we tasted from this excellent Bible teacher in our 2008 OFUESI Annual conferences. Uncle Sathkeerthi Rao went to be with the Lord in October 2018. It is nice to see new people stepping up into ministry roles. The investment of UESI in us is not in vain. We have good examples as we showcase the testimonies of Sis. Jayanthi Dhanaraj and Bro. Satish Madasu, the new additions on the 2021-2022 Executive Committee. We are grateful to our OFUESI families as they pray and participate in the ministry. We also look forward to your feedback and testimonies of His marvelous grace at work. Prem Saganti and Subha Kumpaty

Address for Correspondence: OFUESI-USA,

1921 Narrows Lane, Silver Spring, MD 20906

Financial Contributions: Treasurer OFUESI,

4741 Fairfax Ave., Palatine, IL 60067

http://www.ofuesiusa.org/



From the Desk of the President … Greetings to all and much has been said by the editorial team. God has been gracious to all of us as we prayed, planned and pursued His heart among OFUESI and the fellowship with one another in various prayer teleconferences, two online Annual conferences in August, a special online conference in October and the annual meeting of the National Council in December. I would like to thank all the committee members and volunteers who have facilitated these opportunities joyfully and with a servant heart. I would like to thank Bro. Ben Bethala for serving as our Secretary for the past two years. May the Lord reward him richly for his service. Similarly, I offer thanks to Bro. Wilson Jacob for serving as Vice President for the past two years as well. May the Lord duly repay him and bless him. I want to thank Sis. Daisy Pedavada, Sis. Indira Goduguchinta and Bro. Ravi Gaddam who served on the NC for the last two years. I welcome Sis. Jayanthi Dhanaraj from Denver, CO who is stepping into the role of Vice President and Bro. Satish Madasu from Seattle, WA who is stepping into the role of Secretary. Just a few years ago, Bro. Paramjyothi and Bro. Ravi David jumpstarted the OFUESI ministry in the Seattle area and to see the fruit of it in terms of one serving in the EC now shows how the Lord is blessing the work. I also welcome the new members of NC – Sis. Mary Konatham, Bro. Mohan Pothen, and Bro. Samuel Jacob of OFUESI Canada. May we bear fruit where God has placed us. I wish our families a blessed and fruitful year 2021 and remind you this doxology from Jude 24. To him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy— to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.

Sincerely in Christ, Sam Kurapaty OFUESI – President

From the desk of Treasurer - Beloved coworkers in the ministry, Greetings to all in the matchless name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! I thank our Lord for His faithfulness to the ministry of UESI through earnest prayers and financial support by our OFUESI family. Please continue to pray that we will be able to provide more support to ministry of UESI in this year and consider contributing generously and consistently. I thank all who sacrificially contribute towards the ministry of UESI in India. Due to your generous contributions we were able support our brothers and sisters who are toiling to reach the unreached souls in various campuses across India. I request you to continue to pray and to be actively involved in the ministry. Please note that you can now give electronically through zelle using [email protected] as the id, or at our website www.ofuesiusa.org by selecting eGiving portal. Here are the receipts for October-December 2020 and the Year-To-Date totals.

Please send your tax-deductible contributions to OFUESI Treasurer, 4741 Fairfax Ave., Palatine, IL 60067. May God bless you abundantly! Prince Nadar ([email protected]) Note: All tax-deductible certificate letters for 2020 will be mailed by January 31st and if you do not receive by Feb 15th, please do not hesitate to contact me.

21st ANNUAL NATIONAL COUNCIL MEETING (via ZOOM) DECEMBER 12, 2020 Attendees: Sam Kurapaty, Wilson Jacob, Veeraiah Ben Bethala, Prince Nadar, Pramod Jangidi, Sushil Yesupriya, Paramjyothi Marati, Kanakalatha Marati, Joe Sudhakar Pedavada, Daisy Chinnam, Suresh Konatham, Mary Konatham, Philip Pothen, Abhijit

In this issue …

President’s Message p. 2 Treasurer’s Update p. 2 National Council Annual Meeting p. 3 Meet the EC members p. 7 OFUESI Seminar Oct 24th p. 8 OFUESI Bible Studies p. 11 EC and NC Roles and Responsibilities p. 12

OFUESI Mission: Strengthen the bonds of fellowship among OFUESI, provide prayer and financial support to the UESI work in India, and expand evangelism efforts among Indian students in the US.

CALL FOR PRAYER Please join us for OFUESI monthly prayer meeting

on 1st Saturdays at 10 am EST. https://ofuesi.zoom.us/j/81074249571?pwd=OW5tVEEw

b3NvSWxUVVZQcENyS2NmQT09 Meeting ID: 810 7424

9571 Passcode: prayer


mailto:[email protected]



https://ofuesi.zoom.us/j/81074249571?pwd=OW5tVEEwb3NvSWxUVVZQcENyS2NmQT09

https://ofuesi.zoom.us/j/81074249571?pwd=OW5tVEEwb3NvSWxUVVZQcENyS2NmQT09



Talari, Satish Madasu, Jayanthi Jacob, Kanaka Raju, Prasad Kakarlamudi, Subha Kumpaty, Hephzibah Kumpaty, Prem Saganti, Ravi David, T V Thomas, A.J. Swamidoss, Samuel Jacob, Raulson Invited Guests: Ernest Victor, Latha Victor, JSA Julius, John Victor, Franky Fernandez Vice President of OFUESI, Bro. Wilson Jacob organized the first session, opening with a word of prayer and inviting Bro. Sushil Yesupriya to lead us in praise and worship. After the worship, he introduced Bro. Ernest Victor and asked Bro. Ravi David also to share a few words about the speaker

who was an advisor to their EU group in Ban- galore. Having served the Lord in the Arabian Peninsula for three decades, Dr. Ernest Victor is currently in student ministry in the vicinity of Arizona State University.

Spiritual Blessings in Christ (Ephesians 1) Bro. Ernest heard from Bro. Sinclaire at Kotagiri (four decades ago) on Ephesians in a doctrinal session which was etched in his memory. He wanted to exegete Ephesians 1 for us now. Paul wrote the book while he was a prisoner in Rome (AD 59-61). He was released and he visited Spain and later he was imprisoned (house arrest) and was beheaded at King Nero’s command. He fought a good fight. Paul says to believers at Ephesus that he is a prisoner of Jesus Christ (not Rome). He turned the problem into privilege and opportunity. In Philippians he says the whole of Caesars’s household heard the gospel. He was captivated by Jesus Christ. We were challenged with the question: “Are you Christ’s captive today?” Unless we (OFUESI) are unreservedly captivated by Christ, He will not use us as an organization. Verse 3. Spiritual blessings in heavenly realm. Only in Christ. These are at the cost of physical blessings. He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose (quoting Jim Elliot). One of the important spiritual blessing is intimacy with Christ. Mark 8:31-34 We gain Christ when we forfeit ourselves. Deny, take up cross and follow Christ. Eph 1:3-6 = Spiritual blessings in

Christ because of the Father. 7-12 = because of Christ. 13-14 = because of the Holy Spirit. God can radically change your life if you can get into the book of Ephesians. First blessing − He chose us before the foundation of the world (Gen 1:1). Divine election− He chose us in Christ (John 17 Jesus says to the Father: you have chosen and given them to me). God chose us according to His good pleasure. Foreknowledge− I formed you in your mother’s womb. Even your physical appearance He has designed (Psalm 139). Amy Carmichael was born with brown eyes. She prayed, “God, make my eyes blue”. 25 years later, she arrived in India. Then, God revealed to her why He made her eyes brown as she served brown eyed Indians. He chose us (without any goodness in us) in Him before the foundation of the world, to be holy and blameless. Predestined- Eph 1:5,11, Rom 8:29 - to be adopted as His child (Eph 1:5,9,11 according to good pleasure). According to riches of His grace. Rom 8:5,16 adopted to be co-heirs with Him. To share in His glory. Glorious inheritance of the saints. To be transformed like Him (no sin in heaven). What we lost in the garden we will regain. Gen 1:26 in His image (outward) and in His likeness (inward). To gaze upon His beauty. Phil 1:6 He who has begun a good work in us will complete it. One day, we will be like Him. Daily being transformed into His likeness. Redemption. Salvation Process- justification-sanctification-glorification. Being saved from penalty of sin, from the power of sin and from the presence of sin. Past-Present-Future. Eph 5:27 to present to Himself a blameless bride. Rom 8:30 predestined.. called.. justified.. glorified. Eph 1:14 sealed. Marked with the seal of the Holy Spirit. (Eph 4:30 sealed for the day of redemption) The fullness of the Holy Spirit is not external but is evident when are crucified. Application: Verse 15, for this reason. Verse 17. Know Him better. Intimacy with God like a husband and wife know each other, in spiritual realm. Verse 18. Revelation of Himself comes to you when you experience the cool of the day. (God met Adam and Eve in the cool of the day). COVID had given me (Bro. Victor) an ample opportunity− an insatiable thirst and a radical change. Bro. Ernest shared how he grew into deeper intimacy with God in the past 9 months compared




to all his years of being a follower of Christ and in ministry. He challenged us as OFUESI family to maintaining a “cool of the day” experience. Isaiah 55: Come, drink, those who are thirsty. John 7. Thirst for Holy Spirit, He gives. Rev 21. Water of life. Do you enjoy God? The chief end of man is to enjoy God and glorify Him forever. Psalm 16: 5, 11 God does not want us to be just busy. Mark 1:35 He chose the twelve to be with Him. LORD, you alone are my portion and my cup; you make my lot secure. You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. God wants you to have this experience. You stay with Him, He will act. God does not want us to be successful. He wants us to be significant. (How many disciples you make). Learn the cool of the day concept. Eph 1:17 eyes of your heart (not head) enlightened- change the strategy of busyness to spending time with Him. He is our inheritance. He fills us with Himself. Carrying Jesus with His fulness. Recap: God has chosen us before the foundation of the Lord, adopted us into His family to be transformed into His likeness, redeemed us- justified us, sanctifying us and will glorify us, sealed us with the Holy Spirit so that we may know Him. “Arizona State University ministry was consuming all my time. Now I am consumed by His love.” Bro. Ernest closed in prayer that we long for the intimacy with Him so we can be significant. We want Jesus in His fulness in our lives both as individuals and as an organization. Ministry at ASU – as campus is now shut and is online, we can’t go; the Lord has changed the strategy. The students can meet and we do have a service they can join online. Due to COVID, our group is no longer confined to ASU but many students from local Universities join. People who heard the gospel and are seeking are now connected with the students we invested in earlier years who are at various places and are now discipling. Many from other faiths have been reached. Greetings from UESI President Bro. John Victor

Greetings from UESI to OFUESI. Reminded UESI Vision and Mission, the humble beginnings, Zech 4:10. A candle lit in the early fifties, but one which was placed on a candle stand in God’s purpose- P.T. Chandapilla. Now 3323 bible study cells, 16,611 students, 8,498 graduates and 370 staff. To God be the glory great things He has done! All ministry activities are planned based on the four aims- evangelism, fellowship, testimony and mission. Brother shared various evangelistic activities on Valentine’s day programs, Christmas programs, trekking outreach and such. Various discipleship programs. Large participation in Telengana TRICON 2020 and Tamil Nadu Koinonia 2020 (both in January 2020 and in person with 2000 and 1500 attendance respectively). UESI served the nation through COVID relief (contributed 30 lakhs, Telengana alone 10 lakhs). Online CMTC and NMTC were successful and so are many other meetings. Bro. John Victor gave praise to God for meeting financial needs and thanked OFUESI for its contribution. He talked about ministry in a different way due to COVID- how prayer online was begun and meetings occurred on zoom with great participation. He discussed the gap between rural and urban students in terms of net connectivity to keep them discipled with so many months of lockdown. India has 5.31 crore college students in 4.5 lakh colleges and 874 Universities. That is our field and we were reminded to pray for UESI and praise God for His faithfulness and the transformed students, our assets. UESI Treasurer Bro. Franky Fernandaz shared a few slides of OFUESI contribution, shared on the Northfield center, need of total Rs. 5 crores (land Rs. 3 crores, a basic structure Rs. 2 crores), a property identified in Dehradun. He shared FCRA new amendment law and if found violating, we run the risk of losing bank balance, all assets purchased. Bro. Franky shared current financial needs of UESI- broad outline. He answered various questions fielded by various members of OFUESI. Discussion included how OFUESI contributions could be used in the light of FCRA requirements and amendment. Discussion also ensued how we may have advocacy with the government (here in US) to ensure diplomacy with the way our funds can be provided to UESI without any setback. A few people wanted enhanced communications on UESI receipt of OFUESI contributions. UESI will provide FAQ on implications of new FCRA law.

OFUESI Vision: Fostering the UESI vision in the US and strengthening the UESI through OFUESI




Business Meeting (Reports from Executive Committee and various ministry leaders and Selection of new EC and NC members)

OFUESI President Bro. Sam Kurapaty presided the meeting. He introduced various EC members who offered their reports. Prayer Secretary report was presented by Pramod Jangidi. He highlighted the importance of prayer and provided an outline of what we pray for. Contact Pramod at [email protected] or [email protected]. First Saturday of every month 10 AM -11 AM (Eastern Time). Sis. Daisy Pedavada presented on women’s fellowship. She reviewed the history and the current status highlighting their prayer time (4th Sunday night) and their sharing time (3rd Saturday morning) with testimonies and encouraging discussions. Treasurer Bro. Prince Nadar shared the Finances Update. Currently we receive 45% through checks, 40% through bank transfer and the rest by paypal. Our support in 2020 is currently $35,711. Some of it is yet to be sent to India based on how Bro. Franky will advise on what line items we could allocate for. We did not have usual conference (attendee) expenses this year. Number of donors in 2020 so far are 31 (postscript: 35 at the end of 2020). Abhijit wanted EC and NC members to take stock of what we can do to increase the number of donors. Bro. Sam wanted us to share in local EGFs and let people give as the Lord leads. With OFUESI, you will not be singled out as a contributor but the fund to UESI will be regarded as just from OFUESI as an organization. The donors to OFUESI will be provided tax deductible receipts as always. Prem Saganti and Subha Kumpaty shared on how Keep In Touch (KIT) has originated and is sustained through the years since 2007, now as a quarterly newsletter, though started as a monthly newsletter early on. There was a discussion on how other technologies such as Instagram could be employed rather than the email. It was recognized

that the KIT is reaching people in India and other places who are able to catch up with what is happening in OFUESI and so we will continue the present delivery method. At the same time, we are open to new avenues and youth joining to improve the presentation (style). There was a discussion on several set of eyes (EC) taking a look before its release to ensure accuracy of information. Subha indicated that we have an editorial board that includes President (who represents the OFUESI), Abhijit (dissemination) and even one more member of the EC (in current case: Veera with his email given for feedback). Abhijit affirmed that EC can change the format if it wants to be involved, but Subha and Prem will continue to wait for the final word from the President to clear the KIT before its release which has been the norm. Overall, discussions were very helpful in making sure to expand the reach of KIT for God’s glory. An update on website maintenance. Bro. Raj and Sis. Leena have been doing it for several years. Bro. Santosh from NY is helping them with the website updates. Prasad K is willing to help in future as needed. OFUESI Business Meeting Highlights - Bro. Sam thanked EC and NC for their service. He highlighted the outgoing EC and NC members and offered special thanks. Sis. Daisy Pedavada for leading women’s fellowship and serving on the NC, other NC members Ravi Gaddam from Denver, Sis. Indira Goduguchinta from Austin. Bro. Sam thanked Bro. Ben for having served as Secretary for the last two years doing meeting minutes and for all his help during the annual online conferences. He thanked Bro. Wilson for his service as Vice President for the last two years. He expressed he also completed his term and many thanked him for his role as OFUESI President. Bro. Param proposed Bro. Sam as President to continue for next year. Bro. Joe Sudhakar seconded. Bro Subha clarified it should be a two-year term and if Bro. Sam later wants to pass the baton, we can cross the bridge next year. All agreed to the nomination of Bro. Sam for two years. There were no other nominations. He was affirmed unanimously as the President by all in attendance. Bro. Sam proposed Sis. Jayanthi Dhanaraj as the Vice President. Pramod Jangidi seconded. She agreed to the nomination. Bro. Subha moved to close the nominations which was seconded by Bro. Israel. Sis. Jayanthi accepted the nomination and

CALL FOR WOMEN’S FELLOWSHIP Dear Sisters, please join the OFUESI Women’s

Ministry Fellowship meeting on the 3rd Saturday each month at 11 am EST.

https://ofuesi.zoom.us/j/89139800692?pwd=Z0RXQk

VOSzdPR1RrdmxHSzI2b29Idz09

Meeting ID: 891 3980 0692 Passcode: women




https://ofuesi.zoom.us/j/89139800692?pwd=Z0RXQkVOSzdPR1RrdmxHSzI2b29Idz09

https://ofuesi.zoom.us/j/89139800692?pwd=Z0RXQkVOSzdPR1RrdmxHSzI2b29Idz09



expressed that she is ready to serve in whatever way she can and testified that EU is what made her what she is today. She is the first woman Vice-President in OFUESI. Praise God! Bro. Param proposed Satish Madasu from Seattle as the Secretary. His name was seconded by Bro. Ravi David. Bro. Satish was asked to introduce himself. He shared how he accepted the Lord in his intermediate during EU retreat in Guntur and how he was involved in EU Bible Study in college years. Bro. Param connected a few years ago and encouraged him to be in OFUESI and Bro. Ravi David along with Bro. Param spent time with him and saw his commitment to see this day unfold. Praise God. Women’s Fellowship Coordinator: Bro. Param proposed and Sis. Daisy seconded Sis. Mary Konatham who accepted to serve. Bro. Israel encouraged her to share a few words to introduce herself. She shared that she accepted Christ when she was fourteen. Her EU background included BITS, Pilani and Hyderabad EGF. She and her husband Bro. Suresh are blessed with two children. The remaining EC members are Joint Secretary (Prayer Secretary) Bro. Pramod Jangidi who is continuing the second year of his two-year term and Bro. Prince Nadar who will continue as Treasurer for another two-year term. Bro. Israel asked if we would have a Media Coordinator. Brothers Abhijit and Param said usually Secretary and Prayer Secretary would take care of that. Bro. Sam said if there is a specific work to be done, he can ask one of the NC members to serve in that capacity rather than elect one more person to the EC. A representative from OFUESI Canada: Dr. Swamidoss has asked that Bro. Samuel Prabhakar Jacob be a representative to start with and in a couple of years, Bro. Raulson could serve. Bro. Sam Jacob recognized Bro. David Sudhakar Mudumala as the current President and OFUESI Canada is eager to be revitalized. He recalled OFUESI USA visit in 2011 and the wonderful fellowship they all had with Bro. Arthur Hope as the speaker to all our conferences that year. He would like to see OFUESI USA as a role model and something they can emulate. Praise God for our belonging to one another through UESI roots. Bro. Sam proposed Bro. Mohan Pothen as a new member to NC. Bro. Param seconded. He agreed. Subha and Prem moved to close the nominations

for NC. Prasad K. asked who NC members are. Bro. Sam stated the entire list of NC members. Bro. Ravi David thanked the Lord for this transition. He said it was nice to see past presidents, treasurers and office bearers being a part of the discussion and appreciated all our commitment to the Lord, and ministry. He praised God for those who completed their terms and for those who are stepping in that God would give them an abundance of wisdom in the challenging times ahead. New strategies for each battle as Joshua prayed and received for his battles. Lots of unemployment and social distancing these days. While our vision and mission remain the same, the new context requires we do things differently. May we never lose the wonder of His love and may His light shine through us. Our engagement may be salt to prevent decay in where He plants us. Bro. Veera Gattu quickly shared the current discussion on OFUESI Vision and Mission. He recapped the feedback received from a think-tank meeting that occurred a week earlier. More committee work is expected in the next few months. The Business Meeting ended with Bro. Param offering a closing prayer.

Executive Committee 2021 (also NC members):

1. Bro. Sam Kurapaty, Hagerstown, MD – President 2. Sis. Jayanthi Dhanaraj, Denver, CO – Vice President 3. Bro. Satish Madasu, Seattle, WA – Secretary 4. Bro. Prince Nadar, Chicago, IL – Treasurer 5. Bro. Pramod Jangidi, Edison, NJ– Prayer Secretary National Council members

1) Bro. Veeraswamy Gattu, Atlanta, GA 2) Bro. Jijo Kurien, Detroit, MI 3) Bro. Ravi Alluri, Cleveland, OH 4) Bro. Israel Nandamudi, Marshall, TX 5) Bro. Chandrasekhar Manne, Dallas, TX 6) Bro. Prasad Kakarlamudi, San Antonio, TX 7) Sis. Jyothi Pappula, Houston, TX

KIT Feedback: KIT is the official newsletter of OFUESI. The current editorial board consists of Prem

Saganti, Subha Kumpaty, Abhijit Talari, Sam Kurapaty and Jayanthi Jacob Dhanaraj. Please send your feedback on KIT and local area news items for

publication through [email protected].





8) Bro. Emmanuel Emmadi, Los Angeles, CA 9) Bro. Srinivas Basava- San Jose, CA 10) Bro. Kanaka Raju- Portland, OR 11) Bro. Venkat Vangalapudi- Seattle, WA 12) Sis. Mary Konatham, Austin, TX 13) Bro. Mohan Pothen, New Jersey, NJ 14) Bro. Samuel Jacob, OFUESI Canada

representative

Meet the Vice President Dr. Jayanthi Jacob Dhanaraj

Born in a family that did not believe in a Church, my knowledge of Christianity was almost nothing as a child. I was introduced to a personal God of the Bible in an EU camp during my 10th standard summer holidays. I was particularly impressed by the concept that I can talk to God and that God will hear me and answer me. The simplicity, love and concern that the people in the camp showed to me was extraordinary. There was something attractive about these "born again" Christians and I wanted that for myself, that is when I invited Jesus to be my God and my Father since I had recently lost my father. I attended another EU summer camp at the end of my 12th standard and longed for a closer walk with Jesus. I left the camp with a passion to be a representative of Jesus Christ in my college campus. I joined the EU committee in various capacities during college days and EU was my family, a beautiful family to me. I was like a sponge absorbing all that I observed interacting with EU leaders. In a way, my outlook to life and my values were shaped by the simplicity and authenticity of faith by EU graduates, staff and other peer students. I have observed formation and operation of OFUESI, sometimes pondering from a distance the interface of human personalities and passion for Christ.

I am married to Charles Dhanaraj, who had committed to serve North India in one of the EU Triennial conferences in Tamilnadu. Several years ago, we moved to US. We have two adult children now living in California. My academic background includes a Ph.D. in Chemistry, teaching at a University in the US, and work in a Pharma company in the US. I am now retired by choice to take care of my family needs.

Introducing the Secretary Bro. Satish Madasu I was born and raised in a Christian family in Guntur, AP, India. I was attending church on Sundays from my childhood days, but I followed Christianity as a religion. I was accommodating the worldly life along with the religion. When I was studying intermediate 2nd year at A.C. College, Guntur, I attended one EU retreat. There, I clearly understood the love of Christ, the sacrifice he made on the cross for my sins, and the importance of having personal relationship with Him. In that EU retreat I accepted Jesus Christ as my personal savior. I am grateful to the EU ministry which shaped my faith and values. I was part of EU bible study at Guntur during my intermediate 2nd year. I moved to Kadapa, AP for my engineering. I was the first believer in that college campus. In next couple of years, God added few more believers, and a new lecturer who was from EU background. We started the first EU group in that college. After completing my engineering degree, I went to JNTU, Kakinada, AP for doing M. Tech. I observed that there is no EU Bible study in the college campus. I got in touch with other student believers in the college and started EU bible study on campus. I was encouraged and nourished by various EU leaders. After finishing my M. Tech, I went to Vizag and then to Hyderabad for employment. God opened doors for me to come to Erie, PA for a short period of time. I moved to Seattle WA for employment and living in this area for the last 16 years. Four years ago, one of my cousins, Bro. Suresh Konatham introduced me to OFUESI. I was very happy and wanted to be part of the ministry that God used to change my life. Since that time, I have been a part of OFUESI. I started OFUESI group in Pacific NW region and served in NC for the past three years. I am married to Lakshmi (who was a Hindu covert). We are blessed with one son, who finished his graduation. I am currently working in




AT&T. All praise and glory to God for the wonderful and marvelous things He has done in my life.

OFUESI SEMINAR OCTOBER 24, 2020 Courage and Conviction amidst Crisis and Chaos Via Zoom with RZIM Canada Director Dr. Chris Perumalla and RZIM itinerant speaker Rev. Daniel Gilman

What is the meaning of life? It is best understood in the context of our relationship with God. How do we live a gospel-centered, culturally relevant life amidst the pendulum of

cultural shifts that is driving people to despair and frustration and the reality of global pandemic? The key is to recognize our mission is sacred and our methods are subservient to our mission. The sacredness of our mission helps us to present the transcultural biblical truth that transcends geography, color, race, education and social standing. Like men of Issachar who understood their times, we can fulfil the mission in our generation. It is the written Word that carries us through. The Bible rises to outlive its pallbearers. Unexpected crisis. II Chr 20. Jehoshaphat, King of Judah. Facing calamity. Resolved to inquire of the Lord. Verse 6- realities. Addressed God as the Lord of His ancestors and recognized He is in control of the universe and no one can stand against Him. He uses three phrases (questions). Are you not? He acknowledged who God is. Vs. 7 Did you not? Did you not help us in the times past? Verse 12. Will you not? How beautifully he transitions from one to another and will you not do it now? Mention of plagues. Various pandemics in history. We have same tools to thank Him for His faithfulness in the past and wrap the uncertainty of present and look to Him for future. We have no power to face this vast enemy; we do not know what to do but our eyes are upon YOU. What a beautiful acknowledgment of his reliance on God in the crisis. Looking at political, socioeconomic, spiritual, reality perspectives… we don’t know what to do but our eyes are on YOU. Psalm 34:5 and Psalm 121:1. Verse 14. Changed his perspective. Changed the situation also. Fear and discouragement are

removed. The Bible is not just to inform or reform but to transform us. Crisis- danger and opportunity. People’s hopes are dashed. We can provide the hope of Christ. Daniel. In Babylon. So much of cultural shift and robbed of his personal culture. But he did not merely survive but he thrived. He never compromised his faith. Daniel 1:8− He resolved that he would not defile himself. He could accomplish God’s purposes for his life. He had to be patient. His resolve was an anchor to live a life of godliness according to God’s principles. Nobody to watch him in this strange country but he never let up on his relationship with His God. The heart pumps blood. Daniel’s resolve gave him the life-giving oxygen and even his godly company. Have accountable relationships with godly friends. Spur each other to good works even during these crises. God always intervenes when we put Him first. “Those who honor Me, I will honor,” God says. All kinds of temptations out there. Example- Saul had jealousy when David was appreciated. Daniel was a man of purity. Daniel was a man of principles. The society needs people who dare to be a Daniel. Daniel was highly valued by God and the people. Daniel 6:10 Three times a day, he prayed to God as he had done before. Individual private time with God is so important. It is a sacred must for our lives. May the Lord find in us people of resolve to live a life that pleases Him and represent Him in this anti-scriptural world; He wants us to be people of influence in His name. Standing tall amidst the Darkness- Disciplines for Faithful endurance- Rev. Gilman

II Kings 9: Time of darkness and evil. King Joram and his mother Queen Jezebel (Kingdom of Israel). People did evil. Children were offered to idols as sacrifice. Jehu led the army of

King Joram in this dark time. God wanted him to shine the light. Thus says the Lord God. Jehu walked in faithfulness. We can learn many applications from Jehu’s life. Inner chamber. Quiet place. God has called us to walk with Him. Listen to Him daily. That’s how we can be steadfast through trial.




Message: This is who you are (Identity). This is what you are called to do (Ministry). Colossians-. You are holy and beloved. There is nothing man can do to you or you can do to yourself that can alter the fact that you are set apart for God’s sacred use. You are beloved, treasured by Him. Mission: John 1:5− The light shines in the darkness. When we follow Christ and obey Him, we are shining light in the darkness. Jehu is anointed. He still does not believe. But when he overthrows the kingdom, there will be children who will get to live another day. Discussed how we can be shining light when we pray and give to rescue kids in human trafficking. Jehu starts to respond. He will stand tall. He has godly friends surrounding him to encourage to follow through with God’s call. Personal experiences in how Rev. Gilman’s friends helped him stay strong in his calling. Jehu makes right decisions based on the Word of the Lord. Jesus- how He quoted Scripture when resisting temptations. We should draw on the Scripture and apply to our lives. Question to Jehu: You come in peace? The enemy of our soul, devil wants us to come in peace, coexist. He doesn’t want us to be involved in the cause of God – and not use our talents and resources for God’s purposes. Both darkness outside and within us- God wants to remove the toxic things so we can be light in the darkness. We should refuse to make peace with darkness. Jehu still did not follow through His principles later on. He allowed pagan practices and such. Saul and David- see the contrast. When Saul sinned, he was confronted by a godly Samuel. Don’t take away my kingship- Saul. David was confronted by Nathan. Psalm 51. Do not take away the Holy Spirit from me. Do I love my work (calling) or do I love God? It is not whether we sinned or not but when we sin, we look to God to take us back. When riches increase, do not set your heart on them. On fire for God in 20s and not anymore when you are 60? Job security, financial freedom- gift from God being allowed to steal the warmth of fire for God? God, I want to be David and not Saul. Help us not set our heart on stuff, help us not to elevate the call You have for us over You. Help us to be humble

before You, affectionate toward You, broken and hungry for You. Help us to shine light in the darkness. Looking back to look forward − Dr. Chris Perumalla Alfred Nobel- newspaper published his obituary erroneously when his brother died as: The Merchant of Death is Dead (he invented the dynamite). He became perturbed and devastated. He placed $250 million to fund Nobel prizes. He had an opportunity to review how he could be remembered and live long enough to recalibrate it to make a difference. Look at my heart in how I am prone to drift from God. Reset my heart and priorities. Marathon, Greece to Athens, Greece. 25 miles. To declare victory, the soldier ran and as he reached and delivered the message. he fell dead out of exertion. 1.2 miles were added in 1908 to accommodate the travel to end at the British Royal Family box. Life is a marathon, not a sprint. Paul- life as a running a race. Heb 12:1-2 Three Instructions for reset sandwiched between two realities. – Therefore. (Hebrews 11- hall of Faith). Since we are surrounded by cloud of witnesses- humans with human weaknesses.. then points us to the One who is perfect, Jesus, Reward that awaited Him. He who for the joy that was set before Him, endured the cross, despising the shame... Look back to cloud of witnesses and Look forward to Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith. Instructions: Three Rs of Reset in the Race of Life. (Like Reduce, Recycle and Reuse- preserving the environment) Remove the hindrances. Run with endurance. Refocus on Jesus. Lay aside every weight and set aside sin that clings closely. Running the marathon- a lot of preparation. Not gentle removal. Lay aside. Weight of indiscipline. Weight of indifference. Some are identified in the parable of soil. Deceitfulness of riches, desires for things could choke the Word. Past failures. Jesus invited: Come unto Me, all ye that are burdened. Resentment. Bitterness. Paul- forgetting what is behind. Sin which clings (ensnares us, entangles us). Gen 3. Satan created doubt about what God said. Eve in Satan’s influence was roped into his language (added things God did not say). Devil contradicts




God’s Word (you will not die). The woman sees the tree in the light of what the Serpent said. We need to remove the hindrances that drag us down. Run the race with endurance (patience, perseverance). 21 miles with your biochemical energy. The remaining 5.2 miles only by sheer will power. Endurance is will power to do something difficult for a long period of time. We receive the strength for endurance from prayer and Bible study. Heb 5:7 example of Jesus. Cloud of witnesses- human weakness. Grateful for godly heritage. Fix your eyes on Jesus. Faith and patience are two conquering graces and must always be cultivated and kept in lively exercise. We need more faith and more patience. Barnabas- example of encouragement. No only we are to run the race but be encouragers to others. He had a good eye and a glad heart for the potential of Paul. He had patience with the failure of John Mark which has ultimately given us the gospel of Mark. How about us being Paul to Timothy (Discipleship). Being Barnabas to many in encouragement. Refocus on Jesus. Looking unto Jesus. Our life begins and ends with Jesus. Being willing to discipline to receive the incorruptible crown. Who is at the finish line? Do not look back. Remember God’s goodness. Remember God’s presence. Remember God’s promise. We live in a world of instant gratification. But we are called to run the race with endurance. When we err, we return to the same place where we veered off and resume the race. Germán Silva, a Mexican distance runner and renowned humanitarian mis-stepped at the 25.5-mile mark of the 1994 New York City Marathon. It was there that Silva took a wrong turn into Central Park. Amazingly, after realizing his mistake, Silva made up the 12 or 13 seconds it cost him and overtook in the final stretch, winning by two seconds. “Wrong Way Silva,” used his race earnings and fame to bring electricity to his village, and the following year, he again won the New York City Marathon. Jesus is at the finish line with a Crown of righteousness waiting for you. Martin Luther- The Bible is the cradle in which Jesus lives. We see Him through the pages of Scripture. Concealed in the OT or Revealed in the

NT… we see Him. He is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. He is from the beginning of time and who is at the end of time and He is walking with us, dining with us and fulfilling the promises He has for us. Press the Reset button and Rededicate ourselves to the cause of Christ. (Thanks, Dr. Perumalla!) We had 36 participants at the seminar. The recorded messages can be accessed on YouTube channel. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvx9mhX6FiO

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Welcoming the New Year – Frances Ridley Havergal, 1874

Another year is dawning, dear Father, let it be In working or in waiting, another year with Thee; Another year of progress, another year of praise, Another year of proving Thy presence all the days. Another year of mercies, of faithfulness and grace, Another year of gladness in the shining of Thy face; Another year of leaning upon Thy loving breast; Another year of trusting, of quiet, happy rest. Another year of service, of witness for Thy love, Another year of training for holier work above; Another year is dawning, dear Father, let it be On earth, or else in Heaven, another year for Thee. OFUESI Bible Studies Austin, TX Monthly Gathering -Bible Study, Prayer, Fellowship Contact: Suresh and Mary Konatham Call / text: 512-483-1132; [email protected] Cypress, TX - Greater HOUSTON Area Quarterly Gathering and Sharing Contact: Ben Bethala Call / text: 203-570-9666 Dallas, TX Monthly Bible Study Contact: Chandrashekar Manne Call/text: 310-347-6864 St. Louis, MO Weekly LBBC Students & Singles Bible Study We host this under our Church's Pastoral Authority. Contact: Abhijit Talari

Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days.

Psalm 90:14


https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvx9mhX6FiOhqvpd9ebhu3A

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvx9mhX6FiOhqvpd9ebhu3A




Call/Text: 248-470-1500; [email protected] Ashburn, VA - DC Metro Area Monthly Bible Study Contact: Ravi Saladi Call / text: 571-599-6769 New Jersey Monthly Bible Study Contact: Pramod Jangidi Call/text: 347-331-6587 Philadelphia, PA Monthly Bible Study Contact: Sekhar Vizzeswarapu Call/text 484-478-1391 Cleveland, OH Weekly Bible Study Contact: Joe Sudhakar Pedavada Call/text: 440-876-7215

Chicago, IL Contact: Paramjyothi Marati Call/text: 708-951-1000 Detroit, MI Weekly at Wayne State and Monthly Bible Study Contact: Wilson Jacob Call/text: 313-244-6008 Seattle, WA Pacific North West Region monthly conference call Contact: Satish Madasu Call/text: 425-753-5092

THE EDITORIAL BOARD WISHES OUR OFUESI FAMILIES A BLESSED NEW YEAR 2021 AND GOD’S ABUNDANT GRACE AND GUIDANCE IN THEIR OUTREACH. Only One Life − C.T. Studd (England cricketer who

gave his all & went as missionary to China, India, Africa) Two little lines I heard one day, Traveling along life’s busy way; Bringing conviction to my heart, And from my mind would not depart; Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last. Only one life, yes only one, Soon will its fleeting hours be done; Then, in ‘that day’ my Lord to meet, And stand before His Judgement seat; Only one life,’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last. Only one life, the still small voice, Gently pleads for a better choice Bidding me selfish aims to leave, And to God’s holy will to cleave;

Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last. Only one life, a few brief years, Each with its burdens, hopes, and fears; Each with its clays I must fulfill, living for self or in His will; Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last. When this bright world would tempt me sore, When Satan would a victory score; When self would seek to have its way, Then help me Lord with joy to say; Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last. Give me Father, a purpose deep, In joy or sorrow Thy word to keep; Faithful and true what e’er the strife, Pleasing Thee in my daily life; Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last. Oh let my love with fervor burn, And from the world now let me turn; Living for Thee, and Thee alone, Bringing Thee pleasure on Thy throne; Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last. Only one life, yes only one, Now let me say,”Thy will be done”; And when at last I’ll hear the call, I know I’ll say “twas worth it all”; Only one life,’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.

Overseas Friends of UESI EC and NC Roles and Responsibilities “But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant” Matthew 23:11” Guidelines for NC and EGF Coordinators Personal and Family Testimony

Be Faithful to the Lord God Almighty. (1 Corinthians 4:2)

Have a desire to Serve the Lord. (1 Corinthians 9:19-23)

Be a Prayer Warrior. (Matt. 14:23, Mk. 11:24, 1Thess 5:17, James 5:16)

Be of good Reputation. (1 Tim 3:1-10)

Be Humble. (II Chron. 34:27, Isa 57:15, Matt. 23:12)

List of Responsibilities





Encourage and organize locally to pray for UESI and OFUESI needs.

Serve as an open home for the glory of our Lord and the furtherance of the ministry.

Organize and conduct Bible studies and Fellowship gatherings regularly.

Update EC/NC regularly about the needs, challenges, and activities in the region.

Encourage members to be involved in personal evangelism efforts.

Make regular follow-up calls for encouragement (NC to local leaders and vice versa).

Encourage members to financially support UESI ministry.

Help in the organization and hosting annual regional conference.

Follow up on all the new contacts forwarded by OFUESI in that region.

Provide spiritual guidance in conforming with the UESI doctrines and Christian life.

Identify potential members for future EC/NC and mentor them.

Make consistent effort to be involved with students or student ministries on University

campuses Note: The above are not absolute guidelines. Please inquire on the Lord for leading.

OFUESI National Council Annual Meeting, 12/12/2020 (Thanks to all attendees including guests Dr. T.V Thomas and Dr. ASJ Swamidoss, and UESI resource persons)


Keep InTouch (KIT) 1 - OFUESI

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Transcript of Keep InTouch (KIT) 1 - OFUESI