Vijay came to Bright Star House 10 years ago, a young boy who lost both of his parents to HIV/AIDS. After his parents’ death, none of his relatives wanted to take care of him. They were afraid of the disease he carried and locked him alone in a dark room for many hours during the day.

Bright Star is a home for children who are HIV-affected. There are currently 14 children, ages 4–18, in our home. We have been investing in and discipling these kids for 10+ years. This year, half of these children will be reaching the age of 18 and completing their high school education.

As they go on for higher studies and vocational training, Bright Star will continue to provide them with support, but this will be their first big step into the real world. We continue to be amazed at the transformation that is taking place in them. Each one has a unique story, but I would like to share the story of one young man in particular, Vjay.

When he arrived at Bright Star, Vijay told the staff, “Don’t touch me, I have HIV!”

He was afraid that they would mistreat him like everyone else in his past, and he did not want to stay at Bright Star. Slowly and patiently, the staff earned his trust by talking gently with him and giving him food and care. He even had a hot bath for the very first time!

As Vijay’s physical needs were met, God began to open his heart to receive grace for his spiritual need as well. Vijay is from a Hindu family and learned about Jesus for the first time at Bright Star.

Our staff showed explained the gospel to him, and a hunger began to develop in Vijay to know more about Jesus

As he asked questions and learned more, Vijay began to receive the love and forgiveness that God has for him. He chose to trust in Jesus above anything else.

Vijay has a couple of favorite Bible verses:

“But God shows His love for us in that while we were sinners Christ died for us.” –Romans 5:8

“What shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?”  –Romans 8:31

We could not be more proud of the young man that Vijay has grown up to be. He is a leader in the home and a Godly example to the younger boys.

Vijay is excelling in school, scoring at the top of his class in exams. He is still considering all his options of study for college, but we know that as he continues to put his trust in God, the Father will lead and guide his life.
 

Kristina O. was sent out as a Long-Term missionary from The Church at Brook Hills in 2011.  Today she serves as the Director of Bright Star Education that supports the education and development of underprivileged children.  She also serves as leadership at the Bright Star House that is a home for orphans affected by HIV/AIDS.  Through the Global Offering we are able to support Kristina and her on-going ministry in India.