+ Miss Grace Subbiah +
From Gene Hennig, I received word today of the sudden and tragic death by auto accident of Miss Grace Subbiah, who for some 30 years cared for and taught young women the trade of sewing. The city of Nagercoil lies 10 miles from the very southern tip of India. When Bethania Kids started a home there for destitute, abandoned and disabled children, Grace was asked to serve as its director. The facilities expanded and are now providing a home for about 70 girls.
When I arrived in Nagercoil my plans were to visit the Lutheran Boys Boarding Home and Concordia Girls home on Tuesday evening. I was to present the children with portraits painted for them by students in Northfield, MN. I called ahead to urge Rev. Robert Rajeskaran NOT to plan anyting for me at the Bethania home that first evening. But sure enough - when I was in my hotel room getting ready to go to the other homes, Grace called and said "The girls are waiting." I asked her to tell them I would come the next night. Grace didn't seem too pleased!
I visited the Bethania facility the next evening. The girls presented a grand program for me. My impression of Grace was that she was a highly committed director and a firm, no-nonsense leader with a commanding presence, and that she was a motherly figure for "her girls."Pray for Grace's family, for the girls, and for Bethania Kids ministry, as it grieves this loss and seeks to find a replacement for her.
Now, Lord, you let your servant go in peace.
Listen to Grace and the girls sing:
