Pictured are a grateful Pastor Ajmad Missal and the 27-strong team of pastors in Orissa State, India, who each received a bicycle as a result of donations given at last month's Pembrokeshire Prayer for the Suffering Church meeting (PPSC).

Simon Dean, who regularly visits Pembrokeshire, took a trip to India to see this ministry for himself. He returned with an account of a Sunday service where seven people had accepted Jesus as their Saviour and several people received miracles of healing.

Pastor Ajmad runs three Bible colleges alongside what is referred to as his 'Slums Ministry', He looks after 27 pastors who work in nine districts of Orissa, three of which are dangerous to work in because of Hindu opposition. Ajmad and his wife also look after 14 orphan boys at home. He studied at a Baptist Bible College and has been in ministry for over 16 years.

On his visit, Simon had identified several needs, among them the need for bicyles to help the pastors get around. The amount donated at PPSC amounted to £1,286, which was enough to provide each pastor with a bicycle and pay the fee for exchange into rupees.

PPSC is a forum for Christians from all local churches to pray and show support for brothers and sisters around the world who face obstacles, poverty or persecution.

Each month, Rev. Peter Richmond, of Pembroke Dock, focuses on three or four countries, highlighting individuals who may be encouraged by a greetings card or a letter written on their behalf.

He also brings up-to-date news from charities like Open Doors, Release International, Barnabus Fund, etc. and first-hand communications from ministers and missionaries in other countries who have become personal friends. There are plenty of opportunities to pray and to show support in practical ways.

This month's PPSC takes place at Emmanuel Christian Centre, Haverfordwest, on Tuesday, at 7.30 pm. All are welcome. Refreshments are served afterwards.