A kaleidoscope of colourful saris moved before our eyes as we looked across thousands of expectant faces eager to hear the gospel. This is the southern Indian city of Madurai whose dirty streets are dominated by the 1,400 year old Hindu Temple

Dr Bill Newman and musician Darin Browne were the only Australians on an international team of evangelists drawn from four continents. The aim was to blanket a major Indian city with multiple crusades, thereby offering the good news of Jesus Christ to thousands of people trapped and overwhelmed by the twin evils of idolatry and poverty.

Darin's ministry was well received by the large crowds, who clapped, swayed and worshipped to the music. Dr Newman preached powerfully, using stories and illustrations to touch the hearts of these needy people and thousands streamed to the front to receive Jesus as Lord. Many later gave testimony of God's power touching their life, as they turned from millions of Hindu gods to the one, true God, Jesus Christ. Amidst the prayers, tears of joy and even physical healing, the gospel was central and the name of Jesus was glorified through the meetings.

Bill and Darin also took the opportunity to walk the dirty streets filming scenes for the latest episodes of "Power for Living", which will re-commence on Optus cable television in April at 7.30pm on Saturday nights & again at 11.30am on Sunday morning. Encounters with a Hindu holyman, an auto-rickshaw driver and even a sari store are must see viewing!

The multiple crusade approach to blanket an area with the gospel is a new venture from NGA (New Generation Alliance), a ministry of Luis Palau's Evangelistic Association. It is seen as an excellent way to transform a region for Christ. Dr Newman believes that this model of evangelism could well be used in Australia and New Zealand.

Bill Newman is in consultation with Dr Tim Robnett from the Luis Palau team and there is the possibility of a nationwide conference for evangelists in conjunction with New Generation Alliance (NGA) to train and encourage young evangelists in 2003.

Person note from Darin: WOW! What a place. We were so blessed just to be a part of a mojor and impactive move of the Lord in this southern Indian city. I confess that the people really touched my heart, and praying with them for ages after every meeting was tiring but special. We saw several people healed, including a baby convulsing, who stopped as we prayed and next day was totally right. Theres a few more photos down below, and I hope these toug your heart too...