Building Bridges With Muslim, Hindu Immigrants

Story by Debra C. Anderson

What began as a desire to serve Muslim and Hindu immigrants in Northern Virginia has grown into a thriving ministry that is meeting practical needs while introducing people to the hope of Jesus.

Since 2023, the Potomac Conference has partnered with the General Conference’s Center for Southern Asian Religions and Center for Adventist-Muslim Relations to establish the Bridge Community Center in Fairfax, Va. The ministry was launched after leaders recognized that many immigrants from India, Pakistan, Afghanistan and the Middle East faced language barriers, isolation and difficulty accessing essential community resources.

Today, the center offers a variety of classes, including English, computer skills training, U.S. citizenship preparation and food assistance. What began with just five participants has grown into a vibrant community of more than 100 people who gather each month. Many also participate in weekly Bible studies and worship, demonstrating how acts of compassion can open doors to lasting spiritual relationships.

“This ministry is the fulfillment of the Great Commission,” say Pervaiz Bahadur and Rajan Masih, pastors of the Bridge Community Center. “We believe God has chosen us to be the living Bible to Muslim and Hindu immigrants in the United States.”

By meeting practical needs first, the ministry creates opportunities to build trusting relationships and share Christ’s love in meaningful ways.

“Our prayer is that this community will continue to grow, and that many Muslims and Hindus will accept Jesus as their personal Savior,” Bahadur and Masih say.