A Song in the Night

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In Nepal, the Harijan people traditionally work as shoemakers and leather workers—jobs considered “unclean” in Hindu society. Because of their work and caste, the Harijan community has faced social hardships, usually shunned to the fringes of society as “untouchables.”

A Seed Is Planted

Ram Naryan was well known in his Harjian community as a devout Hindu who practiced witchcraft passed down from his grandfather. However, his entire way of life changed when a traveling pastor and his wife stopped by his home. The couple prayed for his sick aunt, and Ram witnessed a miraculous healing. When the couple shared about the hope of the Gospel, he was the first person in his village to accept Jesus.

Immediately, he turned from witchcraft. The village looked down on him for this, but he courageously practiced God’s Word, going into the village at night to play music. Crowds gathered around his campfire, eager to listen. Ram sang about God’s love and how it had changed him. Later, he began teaching about the dangers of drug use—a prevalent problem among his people—and helping them learn how to escape addiction.

Transformation Takes Root

Miracles happened, and word spread of a God who heals. More people became believers, and Ram’s ministry grew. Over a ten-year period, 700 people heard the Gospel for the first time, and the entire village accepted Christ. The community began to believe in a more meaningful way forward. Everyone started loving their neighbor, and their entire way of life changed. They became healthier and more sustainable in family relationships, education, and beyond, to support one another.

The Gospel Flourishes

Since Ram accepted Jesus, about 8,000 Harijan people have come to know the Lord, about 700 house churches have been planted in surrounding Harijan communities, and a Harijan man entered parliament—representing the people group in local government for the first time in history.

This transformation demonstrates the power of sharing the Gospel and the inseparable work of bringing hope and fighting injustice in tough places.