Randy's Class

Monday and Tuesday we have sat in on Randy's Theology class in the afternoon. We are very impressed with his gift of teaching and his ability to connect with the students of Nepal. We think of the sacrifice that his wife Cathy and son Andrew make in order for him to travel. Please remember them in your prayers as they hold down the home front in his absence.

Several interesting discussions arose in the class today as they discussed culture and how it affects the theology of the church. One issue is the Hindu tika that the

women wear on their forehead. As this symbolizes worship and honor to Hindu gods, should Nepali Christian women wear the tika because it is part of the culture and for beauty?

Another issue is Christian burial here in Kathmandu. Last week the Hindus have forbidden Christian burial at the sight where they are currently burying their dead. Now the Christians have no place to bury. Yesterday and today there were protests and riots at the government buildings pressuring them to provide a place for Christian burial. Some Christians have been forced to cremate like the Hindus against the will of the family, because there is no other options. This is a very urgent issue for the Christian pastors and families.

Vijay has called many pastors in the area to attend a seminar that Tim will present on Christian burial and preparation techniques. He will also set into motion putting together a committee to locate burial space with several churches involved. Please pray for the pastors as they handle most of the funeral arrangements and preparation. Pray for Tim also as he shares with them on Sunday. Also pray for quick resolution of this burial issue as several deaths have occurred in the last couple of days and there is no place to bury.