Sharing the joy of literacy
Teenage bride learns to read and write, encouraging others to become literate too!
Already a wife at age 13, Savita had little hope of learning to read and write. But today she is proud to be educated - and a follower of Jesus!16 September 2009
Savita’s childhood was filled with poverty, loneliness and empty idol worship.
Her father couldn’t make enough money as a labourer, so he began stealing. Savita’s mother became a prostitute.
Savita couldn’t afford to attend school with the other children in her village. She had to stay at home and look after her siblings and complete household chores.
Her only escape was marriage ... at age 13. But it wasn’t much of an escape:
- Savita became a very young mother to 2 children
- She spent hours working alongside her husband in the fields for meagre wages
- They performed ritual sacrifices to their idols, fearing what might happen to the family if they did not please the gods
- Her family often became sick from drinking water from the village’s stagnant, mosquito-infested pond
Then Savita saw the first ray of hope shining into her sad and despairing young life.
A Mission India Adult Literacy Class began in the village, and Savita was invited to join.
The first night Savita felt shy and nervous. But as the days passed she excelled in her studies and became one of the most eager and successful students in the class.
Savita often spends time during her class helping other students with their lessons. She tells those in her village about the importance of learning how to read and write. Savita has also learned to keep her home clean and free of disease and is a role model to her neighbours.
The literacy programme’s Bible-based lessons also introduced Savita to Jesus. Her heart filled with joy as she discovered that Jesus offered her true hope for a better life.
Savita decided to stop worshiping the lifeless gods and goddesses who had never spoken or listened to her. She accepted Jesus as her Saviour and is eagerly sharing her new faith with her family and friends!
Give the gift of literacy to another person in India
Your gift of £18 will enrol a student in our 52-week Adult Literacy Class.
Mission India provides teacher training, a stipend for the teacher and class materials in a regional Indian language. The class materials include three Bible-based lesson booklets for each student, slates and chalk for students, a large chalkboard for teachers and a kerosene lantern for the group as classes are often held at night.
To make a donation over the phone please call us on 01435 863036.
