Arogyam
My name is Y.Arogyam. I’m from K.T.Y. Sangam village in Prakasam district. I’m a Covenant Pastor. I didn’t have any sources of income, because of which my family struggled a lot. I also had a debt of a loan, which I had to pay every month. Because of the huge rate of interest it became all the more difficult to pay off the debts. I decided to start working, but it also meant that I couldn’t be involved full time because of my commitment to ministry. I thought of starting a business on my own, but I couldn’t gather the finances for them. I was disheartened and asked God to show me the way for earning for my family. As an answer to my prayer, God showed me the way through India Christian Ministries, who announced their micro-lending program called Covenant Business Connections. ICM was ready to give loans without charging interest on the amount. It was a God-send! I immediately applied for the loan. I received a loan of Rs. 30,000 and started a small general store, where I sell grocery items like oil, pulses, flour and vegetables. My village is in a very interior place and there are no shops here. This general store will be like a relief to many in the village who used to travel long distances for buying groceries. Also, I can meet many new people and I see this as an opportunity to show them the love of God and also share the gospel. God has been blessing my business and I see the fruit of the increase he has blessed me with. I have now recovered from my financial burden. Praise God! I’m able to provide three-square meals for my family every day. I’m also able to help my church believers who are needy. I was able to purchase some equipment for worship for the church without others support. I praise God for his favour and opportunities he provides for his children. I’m going to use the best of this opportunity that the Lord gave me.