Empowering Communities and Enriching Lives: The Vision of Daniel & Phebe
Paul & Su East have been friends of Daniel & Phebe over many years, when they were leading a church in Saharanpur, Western UP. Here they share the vision that has led them to a neighbourhood of Chandigarh, where they are working to uplift their community and raise leaders for long term sustainable ministry.
Short-term vision: building foundations for sustainable living – Daniel and Phebe are striving to create an environment that not only supports training but also paves the way for agricultural and animal husbandry activities. Their approach involves social enterprise; they are cultivating vegetables to lower the cost of daily living for themselves and the leaders in training.
Long-term vision: equipping a generation for resilience – Looking ahead, their God-given vision involves the training of 750 men and women over the next five years. Their focus extends beyond conventional education, aiming to imbue individuals with a deep understanding of God’s word. This equips them to navigate life’s challenges with unwavering faith and strength, in times of economic adversity or opposition. They deeply believe that this training will serve as a catalyst for a larger movement, as these leaders will be empowered to share their knowledge and values within their communities and beyond.
Empowering women – One of the remarkable aspects of Daniel and Phebe’s work is their emphasis on women’s empowerment. Through work-from-home opportunities in cottage industries, handicrafts, and health care assistance in remote areas, they are empowering women not only to support themselves but also to contribute positively to their surrounding community. They also plan to establish twenty free tuition centers for children from low-income families. By providing education and a safe space, they aim to protect these children from the clutches of substance abuse and unemployment.
A retreat centre for growth and connection – Recognising the importance of continuous growth and connection, Daniel and Phebe have established a base in Chandigarh, where they live and work and where they are developing a Retreat Centre. This tranquil haven serves as a space for individuals to gather, study, pray, and engage in family fellowship. The strategic location allows easy accessibility from Punjab, Haryana, UP, HP and beyond.
Overcoming challenges and spreading hope – The journey has not been without its challenges. The transition from Saharanpur to Chandigarh was met with opposition from neighbors, yet through their persistent efforts, love and compassion, those once opposed have become close friends and even advocates, some having given their lives to the Lord. The path towards their long-term vision remains incomplete, with the need for further construction and development of the retreat center, including a conference hall, classrooms, and dormitories.
A beacon of hope in a fragmented landscape – In a region marked by urban and rural divides, addiction, and social neglect, Daniel and Phebe serve quietly and humbly, choosing to seek out nontraditional ways of doing ministry. They continue to trust in the support of their community and God’s leading that brought them this far. Their commitment to uplifting their community through education, skill-building, and empowerment reflects a deep understanding of the challenges faced by the marginalized. Their work is a testament to the potential for change when guided by a strong vision, unwavering faith, and a determination to make a difference.
Please pray for them regularly, for health, strength, wisdom and funding to see their vision fulfilled.
Article by:
Paul and Su East
SAC partners
