Mabel’s Story

Finding Hope as a Widow in India

Picture of Mabel - Bangalore, India

Mabel is a 52-year-old kindergarten teacher and a devoted member of the Village Ministry group at Sharon Evangelical Church in Bangalore. Her life changed dramatically two years ago when she lost her husband to a heart attack at the age of 50.

Before truly knowing Jesus, Mabel had been a member of the CSI Church, following teachings that didn’t fully reflect the truth of the Gospel. That changed when Pastor Aaron Arasan, the father of Pastor Richard, shared the message of salvation with her. Since then, she has faithfully followed Jesus.

Mabel’s husband, though a Christian, struggled with heavy drinking, which affected their life together and contributed to his death. They never had children, but Mabel has always trusted God's plan.

Life after widowhood has been difficult. Without her husband’s income, Mabel had to move into a smaller home and has struggled with rent and daily expenses. She briefly stayed with a friend but had to leave due to the discomfort her presence caused in the household. She supports herself with a modest teacher’s salary and occasional help from her church or borrowed funds from friends.

Mabel says the hardest part is the loneliness. At times, she has experienced unkind or inappropriate responses when asking for help, but in those moments, she turns to God in prayer.

Despite these challenges, Mabel’s faith is strong. “My hope is in Jesus Christ and my Heavenly Father,” she says. “Even though I feel abandoned at times, the Lord answers when I call. He has provided in ways I didn’t expect.”

Her story is one of quiet resilience and faith. She continues to trust God for daily provision and dignity in this season of her life.

Many widows in India face difficulties, especially when left without family or financial support. Some turn to religious service in temples just to survive. But the hope of the Gospel brings a different path—one where identity and worth are found in Christ.