Biography of Bible Mission Elders

Rev. G. Samuel Ayyagaru

Rev. G. Samuel Ayyagaru, a prominent spiritual leader, served as the President of the Bible Mission. Born on April 13, 1921, in Malki Mohammad Pur, Eluru Taluka, West Godavari District, he was the only son of Gudipati Yohanu garu and Kanthamma garu. His early education took him from Agadala Lanka, where he studied up to the 5th grade, to Akiveedu, where he completed his 8th grade. He later underwent teacher training in Kakinada.

Early Career and Spiritual Awakening

From June 1942 to May 1945, Rev. G. Samuel worked as a teacher in the Akiveedu field. Despite his professional commitments, he maintained a deep devotion to God, regularly engaging in solitary and fasting prayers. His spiritual journey took a pivotal turn when he met Miss Rudamma, who introduced him to Father M. Devadasu Ayyagaru. Motivated by his spiritual hunger, he took a six-month leave in May 1945 to study the word of God under Father Devadasu Ayyagaru in Rajahmundry.

Transition to Full-Time Ministry

In September 1945, while in prayer, he felt a divine call to leave his job. When he expressed concerns about financial stability, he received assurance from the Lord: "I will provide." Following this divine direction, he left his job and joined the Bible Mission, dedicating himself to full-time ministry. He found immense joy, blessings, and prosperity in serving the Lord, a fulfillment he never experienced in his teaching career.

Leadership and Ministry Work

Rev. G. Samuel's ministry began in the village of Paidichintapadu, where he inspired several individuals, including Rev.P. L. James, Rev. P. Bhushanamu, Pastor Vishwasarao, and B. Paul, to join the Bible Mission. He was consecrated as a church pastor by Rev. K. Vijayarathnam and Rev. P. Benjamin in October 1947 and as a Reverend in Guntur in 1949.

On December 29, 1947, he married Victoria, the third daughter of Rev. P. Benjamin and Kanthamma. Victoria was known for her devout nature and support in his spiritual endeavors. In 1947, Rev. G. Samuel embarked on a gospel tour in the East Godavari district and worked at the mission station in Prattipadu village near Tadepalligudem in 1948. From 1950, he settled in Komadavolu village near Eluru, establishing Bible Mission congregations across the West Godavari district.

Establishing the "Divine Gracious Presence"

A significant milestone in his ministry was in 1956, when he learned about the Divine Presence from Father M. Devadasu Ayyagaru in Guntur. After receiving a revelation on September 1st from the holy Martin Margaret about establishing the Divine Presence, he formed a group called "Divine Gracious Presence" with seven members on September 15th and permanently settled in Eluru.

For seven years, Rev. G. Samuel led fasting prayers with congregation members, culminating in the construction of a 60x21 feet church. This church, named "Maranatha" Bible Mission Church was consecrated on December 13, 1964. Additionally, he facilitated the construction of a residence named "Divine Gracious Presence Residence," which was dedicated on January 7, 1981.

Leadership Roles in the Bible Mission

Rev. G. Samuel served as the Secretary of the Bible Mission from 1959 to 1978. He then became the Vice President from 1979 to August 1983. In August 1983, he was elected President, formally assuming the role on January 28, 1984. Under his leadership, the Bible Mission flourished, with numerous individuals benefiting from his teachings and guidance.

Rev. G. Samuel Ayyagaru's life was marked by unwavering faith, dedication to God's work, and profound impact on his community. His legacy continues to inspire those within the Bible Mission and beyond.

Rev. B. Benjamin

Rev. B. Benjamin, a notable figure in the Christian community, hailed from Unikili village in Tanuku Taluka. From a young age, he exhibited a deep spiritual devotion, studying under the guidance of Father Devadasu Ayyagaru in Rajahmundry. His early years were marked by solitary prayers and a profound spiritual experience during which a glowing cross entered his heart, leading him to seek Ayyagaru's prayers to alleviate the burning sensation. This experience was followed by three years of visions, during which the Lord appeared to him openly.

Career and Spiritual Journey

Rev. Benjamin's commitment to his faith began in his childhood, characterized by a divine devotion that would shape his future. He served as a pastor in the Lutheran Mission for many years, where his teachings, conduct, and obedience were exemplary. His wife, Kanthamma, shared his spiritual dedication and maintained a deep prayer life. The couple's home was a hub of hospitality, especially when Devadasu Ayyagaru visited, often hosting major meetings organized by Ayyagaru.

Transition to the Bible Mission

The turning point in Rev. Benjamin's life came with the revelation and establishment of the Bible Mission. Heeding the spiritual calling, he left his position as a pastor in the Lutheran Mission to join the Bible Mission. His wife, Kanthamma, was instrumental in this decision, persistently advocating for their involvement in the new mission revealed to Ayyagaru. Despite facing hardships after their transition, they remained steadfast in their faith and dedication to the mission.

Leadership in the Bible Mission

Rev. Benjamin played a crucial role in the leadership of the Bible Mission, serving both as Secretary and President at different times. His leadership was marked by dedication and a commitment to the spiritual growth of the mission. Under his guidance, the Bible Mission flourished, impacting numerous lives through its teachings and community work.

Final Years and Legacy

Rev. Benjamin's life of service came to an end when he slept in the Lord on October 12, 1949, in Guntur. His wife, Kanthamma, had preceded him, sleeping in the Lord on July 7, 1943. Their legacy continues to inspire those within the Bible Mission and the broader Christian community. Rev. Benjamin's life is a testament to unwavering faith, profound spiritual experiences, and dedicated leadership in the service of God.

Rev. B. Charles (1912 – 1983)

"The death of His saints is precious in the sight of the Lord." Psalm 116:15

Rev. B. Charles, the youngest son of the late Badampudi Andreyya garu of Kapavaram village in Peddapuram Taluka, East Godavari District, was a significant spiritual leader who served as the President of the Bible Mission in Guntur. Born on July 15, 1912, Rev. Charles was baptized on August 25, 1925. He completed his education up to the S.S.L.C. and received Bible training at the Lutheran Seminary. His ordination took place on May 5, 1935, marking the beginning of a life devoted to serving God.

Early Life and Ministry

Rev. Charles grew up in a spiritually nurturing environment, which deeply influenced his path. He joined the Bible Mission in 1938 and was consecrated as a pastor in 1940. On June 25, 1943, he married under the guidance of Father M. Devadasu Ayyagaru in Danavaipeta, Rajahmundry. Together with his family, he served in various towns including Tadepalligudem, Chirala, and Guntur, ultimately establishing a permanent residence at 16th Lane, Arundelpet, Guntur. He was consecrated as a Reverend in 1945.

Service and Leadership

Rev. Charles was dedicated to conducting Sunday services at the church of the late J. Rajarao garu in Christ Church and was established as the pastor of Pedakakani Rest Home on May 16, 1949. His ministry was characterized by his divine presence and association with godly people, contributing significantly to the development of the church.

On November 26, 1956, Rev. Charles entered eternal life. His commitment to the Lord and the community left a lasting impact. In 1959, he was elected Vice President of the Bible Mission, and on December 19, 1978, he became the President. Known for his tireless service, he travelled extensively from village to village, spreading the word of God and strengthening the mission's presence.

Final Days and Legacy

In his final days, Rev. Charles was admitted to Kugler Hospital due to fever and remained there for 50 days. On July 21, 1983, at 7:15 PM, he accepted the call of the saints and slept in the Lord. He is survived by three sons and one daughter, leaving behind a legacy of faith and devotion.

His funeral was a testament to the high regard in which he was held. Rev. John Selvaraju Ayyagaru and his wife arranged a flower-bedecked vehicle for the funeral procession, attended by hundreds of townspeople and church elders. The burial took place at the Lutheran Mission cemetery, conducted by Rev. G. Samuel, Rev. M. Samuel, Rev. N. Samuel, Rev. P. Bhushan, Rev. Bose, Pastor Titus, Pastor Devasahayam, Mr. S. Shanthavardhan M.A., and Mr. P. Satyavardhan B.A.

Rev. B. Charles's life was a testament to unwavering faith, spiritual leadership, and dedicated service to the community. His contributions to the Bible Mission and his lasting influence on those he served continue to inspire future generations.

Rev. B. Elisha Ayyagaru (1911–1978)

Rev. B. Elisha was born in 1911 at Kapavaram village, Peddapuram Taluk, East Godavari District, as the fourth son of Badampudi Andreyyah garu and Mariyamma garu. He pursued his early education in his village up to the 4th class, and later studied at the Higher Elementary School, Dhavaleswaram, up to the Third Form. After completing his Higher Grade Training, he sought deeper knowledge in the Word of God.

During the time when Father. M. Devadasu Ayyagaru was serving as Warden at Luthergiri; Elisha underwent Bible Training under his spiritual leadership. While studying for the School Final Examination at Peddapuram High School, he simultaneously served as a Bible teacher, teaching Scripture to Third Form students in the morning hours. After passing his School Final, he returned to his native village and worked as a teacher in the Higher Elementary School.

Even as a teacher, Elisha’s heart was deeply inclined toward the Lord’s work. He maintained close fellowship with Father.M.Devadasu Ayyagaru, spending two to three days at a time with him in Rajahmundry, learning the Scriptures and receiving spiritual counsel. In 1932, he became a member of the Sharon Praise Fellowship, carefully noting down the teachings of Ayya and faithfully sharing them in the local congregation.

In due time, he married Sundaramma, the second daughter of D. Lazarus of Kakinada. They were blessed with one daughter and five sons. While Sundaramma was working at the Labour School, Narendrapuram, Elisha felt the divine call to leave his teaching profession and dedicate himself fully to gospel ministry. Following Ayyagaru’s counsel, he travelled by bicycle to many villages in East Godavari District, preaching the gospel, and later reporting back every detail of his ministry to Ayya before returning to Narendrapuram.

In 1938, when the Lord revealed to Father.M. Devadasu Ayyagaru the vision of the Bible Mission, the India Bible Mission was established. Rev. Elisha immediately resigned from the Lutheran Mission and joined the new fellowship as a Bible Mission member. Among the first group of members, Ayya appointed a Governing Body, in which Rev. Elisha was included. When the Mission was formally registered at Kakinada, he was among those who signed in the Registrar’s office.

As part of the first batch of Bible Mission pastors, Rev. Elisha ministered in various villages of East Godavari District, establishing congregations, conducting baptisms, administering ordinances, and organizing spiritual festivals. Later, he served in the congregations of Tadepalligudem and was then transferred to Chirala, where he laid the foundations of the ministry, raised funds, and ensured that the church building was constructed up to the walls. He was later transferred back to Tadepalligudem, where he continued faithfully in service.

Around 1950, on Ayyagaru’s advice, he began serving in the Bible Mission, Swasthishala at Kakani. When Devadasu Ayyagaru resided in Guntur, the Bible Mission was formally registered, and according to God’s will, Rev. Elisha was appointed as the President of Bible Mission. From then on, he served faithfully as its President, guiding the Mission with steadfastness, until the Lord called him to His eternal home on November 8, 1978.

During his years of ministry in Tadepalligudem, he secured land and successfully built a Bible Mission church, leaving behind a lasting spiritual legacy. After his passing, the congregation he once shepherded was entrusted to the care of his fourth son, Pastor B. Anuraga Rao.

Rev. B. Elisha’s life stands as a shining testimony of faith, obedience, and perseverance. He left behind not only a family but also a spiritual heritage for the Bible Mission fellowship. Even today, believers remember his dedication, and we continue to pray for his family and for the Mission he faithfully served.