This ministry is unique in that it serves people from many different countries, language groups and religious backgrounds who need to be reached with the Gospel message of Christ's love and salvation.
Dr. Shadrach Katari ministers to Asian Indians at Bethesda Lutheran Church, located on the north side of Chicago, a congregation of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod's English District.
These Asian Indians dedicate themselves to sharing the good news of Jesus Christ to people in the Midwestern states; particularly, new immigrants and their children, as well as in India. Their goal is to establish new preaching stations, ministry centers for youth and children, and 24-hour prayer centers.
Asians from India face some specific barriers in the United States, because of their culture, such as the family structure, religious practices, language, lack of access to medical and legal services as well as limited economic resources. Lutheran groups from Indian try to offer guidance through a culturally and linguistically sensitive human care program that helps with legal access, medical, public aid and social service procedures, case management services to victims of sexual or violent abuse. The services of language translators are offered and a promotion of dignity and self reliance through education. Vocational training, clothing and necessities of life are available.
Religious training is available through Christian education, women's and children's ministries, evangelism, Bible study, fellowship and prayer groups.
O'Hare Airport has an Asian ministry offering chapel services and prayer time. This ministry helps with translation problems, finding people employment and housing. Assistance is provided for those living strictly off the streets, as well as working with prostitutes to enable them to live a productive and Christian life style. Currently the ministry is seeking to provide Bibles to cab drivers.
