A Day with a Travelling Liturgist and a Music Evangelist

Today's service at the Church of the Epiphany, Gurgaon, was in the form of a convention led by Dr. Benny Prasad, the Travelling Liturgist and Music Evangelist, and Author of the book 'UNTHINKABLE'. Benny is also credited with designing the world's first Bongo Guitar and a 54-stringed instrument called the Bentar. Benny is also credited with establishing a new world record for the fastest time to visit 245 countries.

In our childhood, we may have read Jules Verne's Around the World in 80 Days. In this fictional story, six countries were covered. However, Brother Benny Prasad is a World Record Holder. He became the fastest country traveller in the shortest period of time in 2010, having travelled to 245 countries, including Antarctica, in six years, six months, and twenty-two days.   

Brother Benny & Zanbeni Prasad presently run a cafe ministry called Chai 3:16 in Bengaluru. This restaurant seats 400 people and is an interactive community space where you decide the price of your tea – the only item on the menu.  

With this background, he spoke to us today on the theme 'From Broken Vessel to Instrument of Praise '.

The key takeaway of his message was that one should go out into the world and share the good news. He spoke at length about the importance of carrying the Gospel within oneself and that Evangelism can be done not only by the ordained but also by those in various professions.

It was indeed a most inspiring moment to join a praise and worship session led by the Church Choir, along with some uplifting numbers by Benny and his wife, Zanbeni.

Of course, how could I forget the theme of the day! It was of course, from 'Broken Vessel to Instrument of Praise', an apt metaphor for how God makes use of each one of us in his service. The cornerstone that was rejected by the Mason went on to become the foundation of one of the largest cathedrals of the world. The story of this Travelling Liturgist is associated with the story of how God steps in and makes use of those who have lost all hope in order to make them the light and salt of the Earth.

The pews were packed, and the basement hall was full, as church members and their friends had gathered in large numbers to listen to words of inspiration, encouragement, and hope from one who was once on the verge of giving up hope to one who became the 'Travelling Liturgist'. The message of Hope and Positive Affirmations rang loudly in everyone's ears as the thirsty and hungry fed on the word of assurance with enthusiasm!