Our Vision and Mission
Our vision and mission at Vikasitha is to share the love of God and bring freedom and new life to the disenfranchised people of India by living out James 1:27: "Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world."
The Founder’s Story and Legacy - Steeven Veerapaneni
Steeven was born to parents from a higher caste Hindu community in the state of Andhra Pradesh, in southeast India. Before they met, both of his parents came to know the Lord Jesus Christ and were among the first converts in their community. Because of their newfound faith, they faced many trials and persecutions from family, friends, and their broader community. Together, they lost much that was dear to them for the sake of Christ.
As a young man, Steeven was drawn deeply into the temptations of the world. Reflecting on this season of life, he often pointed to 1 Timothy 1:12–14:
"I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me trustworthy, appointing me to his service. 13 Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. 14 The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus."
In October 1974, at a youth retreat, Steeven heard the Lord speak powerfully through Lamentations 3:27. This moment marked a dramatic turning point in his life. He received God’s call to ministry and dedicated his life fully to the Lord.
In 1975, Steeven entered theological seminary in India. On June 12, 1979, he married Surekha, a woman who shared his deep calling for ministry. Together, they faithfully served the Lord for more than three decades in teaching, pastoral work, and wherever else God called them. God used them in incredible ways to develop various ministries throughout India. They were blessed with two daughters, both now married, and a son.
In August 1990, Steeven was given the opportunity to attend Talbot Theological Seminary at BIOLA University in California, where he earned an M.A. (Diversified Major) in 1991. His time in the U.S. greatly enriched his ministry through academic growth, spiritual development, and meaningful relationships.
By 2002, Steeven and Surekha felt the Lord calling them to launch a ministry of their own. Out of this calling, Vikasitha Ministries was born. The Lord brought together a gifted and dedicated team to join in this work. What began as a calling grew into a vibrant, multi-faceted ministry. Vikasitha—meaning "blossom"—is a visible testament to the Lord’s hand upon their efforts.
Over the years, Vikasitha Ministries grew to include theological education, church leadership training, care for widows, women’s vocational centers, and much more. The impact of Steeven and Surekha’s dedication and love continues to be felt across communities in India.
Steeven and Surekha have since gone to be with the Lord. Their legacy endures through the lives they touched and the ministry they built. Today, Purna and Manilah continue to lead Vikasitha Ministries with the same vision and passion, faithfully carrying forward the mission that Steeven and Surekha so courageously began.
All the glory goes to the Lord.