From 18-19 May, the Bishop of the Church of Bangladesh, Most Rev. Samuel Mankhin, along with Rev. Ajoy Ritchil, an ordained minister of the church, embarked on a visit to the Khagrachari district in Southern Bangladesh where several mission centres are located.
Ritchil is also one of two Church of Bangladesh ministers appointed to provide pastoral care in the district.
The journey involved trekking through several hills and traversing challenging terrains such as muddy tracks while braving heavy rains and thunderstorms, bringing home fully the harsh realities faced by missionaries while they attempted to reach people in remote areas with the good news of Jesus Christ.
The mission visit saw the duo reaching mission centres in Notun Bagan Para, Dukhiram Para, and Alokbortika Para in the Bhaibon Chora Union Parishad, as well as Lomba Chora and Bhalukkhe Chora in another Upazila of Khagrachori. There, they spent Pentecost Sunday with the villagers, drawing them closer in Christian fellowship.
Despite having to go through the geographical hazards and risks, Mankhin remained mindful that his tough experiences and hardships accrued in his journey to the remote mission centres were nothing compared to those that the Apostle Paul had to go through.
As he reflected on the words in 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 where Paul wrote, “We are hard-pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed,” Mankhin said, “These words resonate deeply as we continue our mission work, facing various challenges but remaining steadfast in our faith and purpose. Our journey, though filled with obstacles, is a testament to our unwavering commitment to spreading the Gospel and serving our communities.
“As we continue on this journey, our focus and priorities remain steadfast in mission evangelism, spreading the love and message of Christ to all corners of Bangladesh.”