February 2014 Newsletter
Dear Friends,
2014 is a celebratory year for us as we commemorate 60 years of ministry in India. In 1954, founders Mark and Huldah Buntain left a New York harbor and circumnavigated half the globe before settling into a bustling harbor in Calcutta. There they began a faithful pursuit of a seemingly daunting task: to reach Calcutta with the love of Christ and be the hands and feet of Jesus to a city that seemed hopelessly entrenched in poverty.
Calcutta Mercy Ministries, then and today, takes its cues from Jesus, who walked with the poor, spoke truth into their lives, and addressed their most pressing needs. The most pressing needs in Calcutta are basic, but of most importance. People are hungry, people are unwell, and children lack access to education. Feeding, educating, and medically assisting the poor are our primary ministries at CMM, because they have to be.
Every year, we provide free medical treatment to 40,000 people living in poverty.
Every day, 25,000 people receive a free hot meal through our feeding program.
Over 100 CMM schools provide primary education, secondary education, and technical training to disadvantaged children and young adults.
This year, we want to do more to ensure that the ministry continues for another 60 years. One focus is raising up a well-trained team of national leaders, many of whom are graduates of CMM’s Bible, nursing, and teacher’s training schools. Another is raising the funds to make significant upgrades to our general hospital so that patients may continue to receive the highest quality of care. Upgrades will include a new fire safety system, electrical system, and cafeteria.
God is alive and actively at work in Calcutta - the City of Joy. We invite you to join us in sharing His heart for the needy and participating in what He is doing for the “least of these” in India.
For the Children,
Randy Valimont, President
Calcutta Mercy Ministries