We first crossed paths with Rafik in Tanzania as James Kamau (see previous newsletter) asked him to teach at our ICM Seminary in Dar es Salaam. Since then he and his family immigrated to Canada and he joined the ICM Canada team as a member of the board of directors, as well as taking teaching ministry trips to Tanzania.

Rafik’s unique background and experience as a Muslim and ethnic Indian in Africa has provided him varied ministry opportunities over the years. Recently, he was invited to eastern Canada to share a seminar on reaching Hindus with the Gospel:

. . .Yes we had about 30 participants. The church in Ontario is surrounded by majority east Indian population and so they are interested in how to better reach this population. The seminar started on Friday and then all day Saturday. In the evening we took the participants to a Hindu temple for a  visit. We had a good discussion with the young Hindu priest who had his PhD Sanskrit.. . 

As more immigrants relocate to western nations, we have a great opportunity to reach them with the Gospel, without needing a passport or getting on a plane. It does take some specific knowledge and learning on our part, but since they are in a strange country they are often open to a local, friendly face. After all, kindness and friendship is a human trait that is understood in any culture.

Obviously, the issue of immigration can be complicated, but if we as believers can look past the politics, we have the opportunity  to share Jesus’ love with our neighbors who may have never heard of this Good News. As we have opportunity, we can be that salt and light with people whose country we may never have the opportunity to personally visit.