Anita Harijan wont in Palhinan, a village in northern Nepal. It is a poor region, where people suffer greatly from the Hindu caste system. Our partner ACN helps people become more economically, socially and spiritually resilient through self-help groups. Anita is a powerful example of the change this can bring about. She lives as salt and light in her family and community.
Pictured above: Anita shares in the self-help group what she learned herself.
Years of grief and worry
Anita was born in a datit village, the lowest caste in Hindu society. Old traditions prevail there and Christianity is generally rejected. Ever since her childhood, Anita struggled and her marriage to Balram, then a non-believer, also brought years of grief. She was constantly dealing with alcohol abuse, financial instability and cultural tensions.
Answering prayer
Yet Anita remained steadfast in her faith. In self-help groups, she had come to know the love of Christ, which she lovingly shared with her husband and family. Her prayers were answered and her perseverance rewarded: her husband Balram stopped drinking, harmful customs were abolished and the whole family came to faith. What a change! With sewing, Anita contributes to her family's income. Her husband found a steady job as an accountant with the Tax Administration. Together they have built a safe home and a life rooted in faith in Jesus Christ.
Witness to Christ
Anita and her family discontinued ritual ancestor worship, which drew fierce criticism from neighbours. Anita responded with love. She chose peace over conflict and continued to pray for those around her. Her silent testimony led to spiritual renewal among her family members too. Thanks to the love of Christ and the support of a self-help group, Anita has become a witness to the power of God and a source of healing, hope and transformation. She keeps going, bringing light into dark places and keeping peace in a divided community. Anita and her husband confidently share, “In Jesus, all things are possible. We will continue to share his love.”
