One of the greatest joys of serving with International Ministries (ABFMS) is discovering how God uses faithful mission work to influence generations, cultures, and even continents.

During my recent ministry visit to South Africa, I participated in the annual John Rangiah Memorial Mission Conference (JRMMC). As I reflected on the conference and the remarkable legacy of John Rangiah, I was reminded that this story began long before he arrived in South Africa. Its roots reach back to the missionary work of the American Baptist Foreign Mission Society in Nellore, India, in the nineteenth century. The story is beautifully preserved in the JRMMC brochure, which contains historical details that many people may not know.

The early Telugu mission in Nellore was known as the “Lone Star Mission.” There was a time when the work seemed unproductive and some leaders considered closing it. During discussions at a meeting in Albany, New York, the future of the mission was debated. It was there that Mr. Smith argued for the continuation of the work. Inspired by the lone mission station marked on a map of India, he wrote the poem “The Lone Star,” encouraging the mission to continue. The decision was made to persevere, and what appeared to be a struggling mission eventually became a significant Baptist mission movements in India.

That decision changed history.

Out of that mission emerged generations of faithful believers, pastors, evangelists, and missionaries. Among them was John Rangiah, whose ministry in South Africa left an indelible mark on Baptist life and mission. Through him, the gospel crossed yet another ocean, blessing communities, churches, and future leaders in Southern Africa.

The connection between the Lone Star Mission and John Rangiah’s ministry inspired me to write the lyrics of a song titled “Lone Star, Shine On.” The song celebrates God’s faithfulness through the generations and honors the missionary vision that refused to give up when the future seemed uncertain.

I was privileged to collaborate with Rev. Salie Emmanuel of the Lone Star Telugu Baptist Church, Nellore, India, who composed the music and beautifully performs the song. Together, we sought to tell a story that spans continents—from the mission fields of India to the churches of South Africa and beyond.

The song is more than a tribute to history. It is a reminder that global mission matters. The missionaries who first served in Nellore could never have imagined the far-reaching impact of their faithfulness. Yet their work helped shape leaders who would carry the gospel to other nations. What began as a “lone star” became a constellation of witness and service that continues to shine today.

As you read the attached JRMMC brochure and listen to “Lone Star, Shine On,” I invite you to reflect on the enduring impact of mission. The story of John Rangiah reminds us that when God’s people respond faithfully to His call, the influence of that obedience often extends far beyond what anyone can see at the time.

From Nellore to South Africa. From one generation to another. From one faithful witness to countless lives transformed.

The Lone Star is still shining.

Links:

JRMMC Brochure

JRMMC Brochure
“Lone Star, Shine On” (Lyrics by Rodney Ragwan; Music and Vocals by Rev. Salie Emmanuel)

I invite you to be part of this mission – Read and prayerfully consider investing in me as I invest in others.

In Christ’s Service,

Rodney