In these critical times in our region, all of us on the DPM-India team are writing to you with both urgency and faith. We are asking you to stand with us as the enemy wages an all-out battle against the Kingdom of God in India.
This battle is both visible and invisible. Yes, the physical persecution continues—arrests of pastors, disruption of worship services, attacks during Christmas celebrations with groups of believers beaten while singing Christmas carols. We have even seen mobs of fanatics forcing their way into churches, using abusive language to mock the virgin birth of Jesus.
Incidents like these are indications that in addition to the physical side of such attacks, we are dealing with an increasing spiritual assault against Christians from the unseen realm.
The Effects of Dark Powers
In recent years, as we have ministered in the Indian subcontinent, we have witnessed an increased use of witchcraft and sorcery against servants of God. One sobering example is that of an Indian missionary couple who, after years of professional work in the United States, returned to India to serve the Lord.
The husband began to faithfully plant churches in various regions, training local leaders and taking bold steps to expand the Kingdom. However, during one ministry visit to a district otherwise considered relatively safe for Christians, he was forcibly dragged into a temple by religious fanatics. There, he was smeared with ritual substances used in idol worship—acts that carry deep spiritual implications.
From that point onward, his ministry diminished. Though he had previously been healthy, his strength began to decline. Eventually, he was overtaken by a physical illness that led to his death. Incidents like this one have shaken many pastors, instilling fear and discouragement—especially among those serving in isolation without organizational covering or support.
Using Our Spiritual Weaponry
The situations we have described are precisely why the ministry of DPM-India is so vital for our region today. God has entrusted us with the teachings of Derek Prince—clear, scriptural, and powerful truths on spiritual warfare and deliverance.
We utilize such resources as Spiritual Warfare, They Shall Expel Demons, and From Curse to Blessing in direct combat with the spiritual opposition we encounter, including the activities of those under the influence of darkness. Derek’s powerful teachings equip people not only to stand, but to overcome.
Pastors and leaders across India desperately need these truths—first for their own lives, and then for their congregations.
The Need for Strong Leaders
Another result of the dark spiritual undercurrents is an increasing division in communities along political lines—based on caste, religion, and language. Such divisions often escalate into hatred and violence.
The nation of India stands in desperate need of the love of God, expressed through strong, spiritually equipped leaders. Over the past year, the Lord has opened remarkable doors for us to minister to pastors and leaders all across India—from the northern regions to the southern states, and even to the remote Andaman Islands. By His grace, we have seen discouraged hearts revived and pervasive fears replaced with great boldness.
One pastor from Central India who had recently been released from prison shared this powerful testimony after attending one of our conferences. “Even after my release, I lived in constant fear—fear to minister, fear for my family, fear that my children would be taken from me. Despite this, I felt led to attend the conference. During the teaching, I experienced a mighty deliverance from the spirit of fear. My heart has been rekindled with boldness. I return—ready to stand firm and continue the work of the Kingdom.” This kind of transformation is only possible through the power of God’s Word.
Training the Next Generation
A key aspect of the work of the DPM-India team involves training the next generation of leaders. A major area of focus is pastors’ kids, many of whom are drifting away from ministry—and even from Christ—due to the financial pressures, criticism, and opposition their parents face as leaders. Those who remain in the faith often feel forced toward a pastoral calling rather than seeking it of their own free will.
One young man who reluctantly attended our training testified:
“I knew the Bible, but the teaching I received at the conference brought me into a depth I had never known—especially the teaching on holiness. I realized that this requirement is a real challenge for me. But I received answers to many of my questions, and I also experienced an unexplainable joy. I came to see that ‘ease in life’ can be a test. Often, that was the point when I drifted away from God. This training changed my perspective and helped me understand God’s purpose for my life.”
Strengthening Pastors
Beyond the work in India, God is also moving powerfully among leaders in Sri Lanka. Our conferences there are helping to unite fractured pastoral communities and bring doctrinal clarity at a time when confusion and false teachings are rampant. A senior Bible teacher recently shared his gratitude for the balance and truth he received, testifying that such teaching is rare and deeply needed in the “all-out battle” spoken of earlier.
In the coming year, we are planning expanded outreach in Andhra Pradesh, Jammu, Kashmir, West Bengal, and other locations. As access to Christian materials becomes increasingly restricted in some regions due to anti-conversion laws, we must act swiftly. We need to strengthen those areas that remain open, ensuring that the lamps continue to burn in the days ahead.
The need is great—and so are the resources required to meet that need. We estimate it will take over $60,000 to provide the following services:
● 32 conferences across India
● 12 conferences and 2 youth training programs in Sri Lanka
● Books printed in Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, and Sinhala
● Digital devices for pastors with Derek’s teachings on them
We realize the price of these resources is daunting. Even so, would you prayerfully consider partnering with us for some portion of this vital work? Your support in any amount will help equip frontline leaders, strengthen the Church in our region, and push back the forces of darkness.
Thank you in advance for whatever you can provide. May the Lord richly bless you as you sow into His Kingdom in this crucial hour.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Elsie and Daniel
Directors, DPM-India and Sri-Lanka
