Sri Lanka (MNN) — Ministry in Sri Lanka isn’t always easy. Natural disasters barrage the island nation off India’s southern coast, while economic instability and Buddhist nationalism add further challenges.
Yet Tim Landis of FARMS International says their partners’ persistence is paying off. “Sri Lanka suffers a lot of natural disasters; there’s a lot of different religious ideologies,” he says.
“They’re like [a] prize fighter: they get knocked down by a natural disaster or economically, and then they just keep getting back up.”
Still, FARMS Lanka needs prayer for ongoing administrative challenges. “They’re down for a longer count right now,” Landis says.
“The things they wrestle with really are [administrative,] like going out and visiting so we get proper reporting on how businesses are going, trying to collect loan repayments.”
Suraj Sanjeewa Fernando supports his family through a small printing business.
(Photo courtesy of FARMS International)
The Lord’s past faithfulness and provision are helping believers press on. “FARMS Lanka [has] reached the whole island for the Gospel and for humanitarian efforts,” Landis says.
“We remain encouraged by the ministry and the highlights they send us, even amidst their wrestling and struggling.”
Success stories
Nirmani Kulathissa, a wife and mother of two, operates a small grocery shop in Ratmeewala. With support from FARMS Lanka, she purchased inventory and is steadily repaying her loan through business profits. She is an active member of a local Salvation Army congregation.
Meanwhile, Swarna Neelakanthi runs a plant nursery in nearby Rambukkana. Steady sales allow her to repay her FARMS loan, and she remains active in her Anglican church community.
Success is “not always just about, ‘[Did] we get loan repayment?’ but how it impacts their church community, how it impacts their family life,” Landis says.
In the same community, Sriyalatha Mendis produces handmade bags and sewing items. A recent loan from FARMS Lanka allowed her to purchase materials. She is gradually building her business while remaining active in her church community.
Finally, Suraj Sanjeewa Fernando supports his family through a small printing business in the coastal community of Panadura. “Suraj was helped by FARMS Lanka in purchasing a printing press, and that enabled him to grow his business and repay his loan,” Landis says.
With support from FARMS Lanka, Nirmani Kulathissa purchased goods to stock her shop and is steadily repaying her loan through her business’s profits.
(Photo, caption courtesy FARMS International)
Each story reflects God’s provision through diligence, accountability, and sustainable work. Praise God for what He is accomplishing through FARMS Lanka.
Learn more
Join the FARMS International email list to learn more about the ministry. Scroll to the bottom of the FARMS website homepage to find the sign-up form.
“We do a monthly e-newsletter, and that is the best way, because that’s where we share all the reports and stories of the individuals impacted by our ministry,” Landis says.
While you’re there, sign up for the second annual FARMS Gala on March 13.
“Pennsylvania or surrounding states listeners [and readers], we would love to have you out,” Landis says.
“It’s a great opportunity to understand what FARMS does and the direction we’re going. If you do come, let us know that you heard us from Mission Network News.”
Header and story images courtesy of FARMS International.
