By REV. PETER DEBAKAR MAZUMDER
From May 7–10, 2025, our A3 7th Batch families gathered in the seaside town of Cox’s Bazar for a family seminar where ministry leaders didn’t just come as pastors and leaders, but as husbands, wives, and parents, ready to invest in their homes.
It was a spiritual encounter where teaching, worship, healing, and fun were woven into a beautiful tapestry of transformation. From the opening prayer, we sensed God’s Spirit at work, breaking down barriers, restoring relationships, and drawing hearts together.
The Family Seminar for the 7th Batch of A3 Bangladesh
Family First, Ministry Flows
This week was designed to focus on the the family. We wanted leaders to step back from their busyness and reflect on their primary calling at home. The setting at Sea Uttara Hotel provided the perfect space for this retreat—a time for laughter, learning, and renewal.
With great care and insight, our alumni facilitators, Philip and Aporna Lucy Sarker, led each session. They guided couples on a journey of discovery—revisiting their childhood influences, navigating cultural differences, and embracing God’s design for marriage and family. What emerged was more than information—it was transformation.
Breaking Down Walls, Building New Bonds
As leaders shared stories of their upbringing and personal struggles, something beautiful began to unfold: understanding. Many realized, often for the first time, how past family dynamics still shaped their present. Through biblically grounded teaching, they discovered new ways to communicate, resolve conflict, and walk in unity.
A highlight came during the foot-washing ceremony. In our South Asian context, this act of humility and mutual service is rare—but that day, every couple knelt before each other, washing feet, exchanging forgiveness, and reaffirming love. Tears flowed freely. Barriers were broken. God moved.
And then came communion. As couples approached the table hand-in-hand, they recommitted their marriages to Christ. It was holy ground. I saw hardened hearts softened and estranged spouses embracing again. Only the Holy Spirit could have orchestrated such grace.
Joy by the Seashore
Of course, no family time is complete without joy! Our beach outing brought unforgettable memories—children laughing, couples walking hand-in-hand, and friendships deepening. These moments reminded us that discipleship also includes delight.
The devotionals from Ps. Nipul Mollick and Mr. Lasar Banargee added depth to our experience, reminding us that spiritual leadership begins at home. We were challenged to be blessing-givers to our children, our spouses, and our communities.
Testimonies of Transformation
Let me share a glimpse of the impact:
Lawrence, one of our participants, reflected:
"This seminar was not just another training, it changed our marriage. I came away with a deeper love for my wife and a new commitment to lead our family with humility and grace."
Kana added:
"I’ve struggled to express my emotions because of past trauma. But through this seminar, God opened a door in my heart. I’m learning to speak, listen, and love in new ways."
Stories like these remind us why A3 exists—not simply to equip leaders for the pulpit, but to shape whole lives for the Kingdom.
Gratitude and Hope
We are deeply thankful to each one of you who has prayed, given, and partnered with us. Your investment is bearing fruit—in marriages, in homes, and in generations yet to come.
As National Director, I left this seminar full of hope. When God moves in our families, He moves through our ministries. And I believe that what began in Cox’s Bazar will ripple outward, transforming churches, communities, and a nation.
On behalf of our team and every family in the 7th Batch, thank you for being part of this journey. May the Lord continue to bless your own homes with His peace, joy, and purpose.
In Christ’s love,
Rev. Peter Debakar Mazumder is the national director of A3/Bangladesh. He served as General Secretary of Bible Students Fellowship of Bangladesh, but after handing BSFB's leadership over to his successor, he now serves as its National Fundraising Development Advisor. Rev. Mazumder also authored a chapter in Eastern Voices, Volume 1 called Bringing the Bible Back to Life; you can watch Peter here: Why We Lack Good Bible Teachers. Peter and his wife Sylvia, who is the General Secretary of Dhaka YWCA, live in Dhaka and have two adult daughters and one granddaughter.
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Header photo courtesy of Ebadur Rehman Kaium on Unsplash
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