Nepal

Purnamaya, who is 16 years old, lives in a small town in Nepal. Her uncle witnessed to her, and a study was started. Now, although it is a two-and-a-half-hour bus ride to the congregation, she faithfully attends the meetings once a week. It is not easy for her. Both of her parents are lepers, so they are very poor. Early in the morning, Purnamaya cracks stones to make gravel in order to help support her family financially, besides doing household chores such as cooking and washing. In addition, she goes to school. The bus fare to get to meetings is the equivalent of a day’s wage for a working person. At times, her parents try to encourage her to go to a local church instead. But Purnamaya knows she can learn about Jehovah only at the Kingdom Hall, so she does what she can to attend. Recently this meant selling her watch, a gift from her grandmother. She not only comments well at meetings but also shares what she learns with the people of her town. She is a source of encouragement to all who know her.

[Picture on page 53]

Purnamaya making gravel to help support her family