Richard R SmythRichard Smyth's missionary service in India was designated "church development." The Indian church prepared for autonomy, to assure continuity of American mission initiatives. "Development" involved identifying and implementing specific ministries. Te challenge: match peoples' needs with relevant opportunities. This affected worship/activity in local congregations as well as their outreach efforts. The goal: design culturally valid strategies, structures and services for the church's mission, organization, workers. An emphasis was proper leadership and resources. He built up a multi-cultural congregation in one of New Delhi's new suburban areas. This housed government, business and military personnel called to national offices. The congregation's focus: build strong fellowship ties and initiate outreach services in the community. This pattern was used for nation-wide training programs by denominational and para-church groups. The last 15 years expanded the ministry to facilitate similar transitions by mission institutions in 14 Asia/Pacific nations. Richard and Sylvia Smyth retired in 1998; they reside in Asheville, North Carolina. Their family of 5 Indian children and spouses, grandchildren and great-grandchildren live in New Delhi, Manila, Dubai and Stockholm. Read More Read Less