Successful in Takoradi, Ghana

Dear Brethren,

This is our report for the month of March.

OPERATIONAL REPORT MARCH, 2024

1. CLASSROOM WORK

In the first week of the month of March, all the courses were completed for the term. The students are left with short courses. There were no classroom activities for the second week because the school was on field for the campaign for Christ.

The students, the cooks, and the instructors were given the third week to rest after a hectic week on the field spreading the good news of salvation.

The last week of March was a revision week for the students to prepare for the end of term examination.

Short courses postponed: According to our time table, the regular students were to be taken through short courses between April 8 and 19, and then immediately after that break for vacation. But the school received an invitation from the congregation at Efia-Kuma requesting for our students in a 4-day house to house and public evangelism. We therefore decided to postpone the short courses to give way for the evangelism program.

Classes for the part-time students continued to be effective for most part of the month. The only break they had was the Friday and Saturday when we were out for the campaign for Christ. Some of them partook in the evangelism.

Classes resumed for the last two weekends of the month. Three instructors are currently teaching during the weekends. Douglas Armah is teaching the epistles of John and Jude on Fridays, Nathaniel Brobbey is teaching Denominational doctrines on Saturday mornings, and Samuel Owusu-Afari teaches world religions in the afternoon.

2. PERSONAL EVANGELISM AND BAPTISM

In the month of March, the school had its campaign for Christ for the term. We have been getting a lot of requests from Churches all over to help them in their evangelism programs. Currently, the school officially goes out on an evangelism trip once a term. There are a lot of individuals and churches who have brought their request to the school. One of such requests came to us from one of our old students. He wanted the school to help him evangelize a town called Beposo, to plant the Lord’s church there, though there are some Christians who move from there to worship at a nearby town. This town is a big commercial town which did not have the Lord’s church. We were very happy to help in such a work, so we made preparations and on the 11th of March, around 12:30 p.m. we left campus to the place.

The town is about 30 – 40 minutes from the school, but because of transportation cost and other conditions, we rented a guest house there to make the work more effective.

The team for the evangelism included the instructors, the cooks, the nine regular students, four part-time students and twenty-two old students.

The campaign for Christ was very successful, as many got to hear the undiluted truth for the first time through personal work and public preaching. Overall, there were seven (7) baptisms, two in the course of the week and the other five visited the church on its first worship day in the town and got baptized after worship. The number of people who met together to worship that Sunday were ninety-three souls, children included.

Seven of the current students stayed behind to worship with the new church before returning to campus.

God blessed the students’ work at Efia-Kuma Church of Christ with two baptisms. But many have had the opportunity to hear the gospel. 

Thank you.

Joshua

Graduation in Accra, Ghana

 Bear Valley Bible Institute, Accra  

End of April 2024 Operating Report

We give thanks to the Lord for His guidance and blessings throughout April 2024. It has been a month filled with growth, learning, and spiritual outreach. Below are the highlights of our activities for the month.

Academic Activities

April marked the beginning of a new quarter for our diploma class. Esteemed Bro Amoo Gyima led the students through enriching courses such as “The Life of Christ” and “Christian Evidences,” while “Scheme of Redemption” by Kojo, “Homiletics 1” by Shadrach Oppong, “Old Testament II and Godhead” by E. O. Larbi, and other subjects were also part of the curriculum. The dedication of both students and faculty has been commendable, ensuring a robust and spiritually enriching academic environment.

Gospel Campaign

Our commitment to spreading the Word took the form of a church planting campaign that spanned two weeks, with activities conducted day and night. Although we did not witness any baptisms this month, we were blessed with the presence of three visiting prospects and the initiation of three new members. We remain hopeful that the seeds planted will bear fruit in God’s perfect timing.

Leadership Seminar

The ongoing weekly leadership seminar at Akotoakrom, spearheaded by Bro E.O Larbi and Bro Sasu Ntim, has proven effective and transformative. The seminar has been instrumental in equipping our leaders with the knowledge and skills necessary to shepherd the flock and spread the gospel more effectively.

Working and Education on BV Library

Sammy has been moving around helping to resolve the network connection of the library, fixing errors, and educating its use to instructors and students. This month, he visited Koforidua and Accra East to help fix connection challenges. There was a peculiar error i.e. javascript error after connecting the laptop or phone. He is searching for how to resolve this to keep other students in touch and enjoy its use.

There were common questions students normally asked, “Can it be accessed everywhere I go,” and he answered, “It is a local area network.” Only when you are within the radius of the Wi-Fi yet, the school is working on upgrading it to be used worldwide.

Instructors and students love using it because it contains many books you can access.

Graduation and Matriculation Ceremonies

April 20th, 2024, was a historic day for our institution as we celebrated the 6th Graduation and 7th Matriculation ceremony for our Diploma class, alongside the 1st Graduation ceremony for our Degree class, which saw 12 students proudly receiving their degrees. The 2nd Matriculation ceremony was also held on this day. The events were not only successful but also memorable, marked by joyous celebrations and a spirit of camaraderie. As is our tradition, the ceremonies included a fundraising event, which received generous support from the churches. The funds raised will be instrumental in furthering our mission and supporting our students.

We are immensely grateful for the unwavering support of our partners, alumni, and friends of the college. Your prayers and contributions have been the cornerstone of our success. May the Lord continue to bless you abundantly.

Radio Programme

A new contract has been signed with Top Radio (TOP MEDIA GROUP). We still appeal to you to help by paying the full contract price for us to enable us to reach as many listeners as possible. We were able to reach as many as about Fifteen (15) to Twenty (twenty) people a week. We visited two homes a week to teach and instruct.

We thank our Lord God for these activities. We pray that He gives us strength all the time to work more.

Report by E.O. Larbi, Director

All around education in Accra, Ghana

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE, ACCRA

End of March Operating Report, 2024

Glory be to God for His mercies throughout the month’s activities. We did not encounter any health challenges. This month marks the end of first quarter activities.

Class Room Activities

During this month, the students were taught a short course on personal Evangelism 1. This was taught by Emmanuel Gyasi-Quansah for a week. Also, all assignments and research papers were done and submitted to instructors. Our instructors did well to accomplish all lessons and examinations.

Number of Students

Ten (10) men have been admitted to the diploma program. Admission is ongoing as we visit congregations to find faithful men with the desire to further their education in Biblical studies.

New School Building Project

We are thankful to God for Mt. Home Church and Brother Steven for raising funds to finish the ground floor. The work is ongoing. Currently, the contractor is fixing the conduit, windows, and other fixtures.

Evangelism Campaign

We thank God for this work during the week's activities. The students and campaign team (alumni) together carried out this work. With effective fasting and prayers, the message was delivered. During the campaign, we baptized four (4) souls and restored three (3) members. We also had a couple who helped us to accomplish the work. During the public preaching, the following topics were treated:

18th - Sin and Its Consequences, Repentance and Baptism) - Evans Awuku

19th - Repentance and Baptism - John Acquah

20th - The Church - Br Shadrach Oppong

21st - Dispensation of the Bible - Arhin Joas

22nd - Worship - Ebenezer Amoasi

23rd - Heaven - Silas Adjei

A large audience from the adjoining villages participated and many asked questions and we helped to understand. On Sunday, we had our first fellowship with them and broke bread. Attendance was Seven (7) new Christians, Five (5) non-Christians, and seven (7) members of the evangelical team. The total attendance was Nineteen (19).

Excursion

On March 4, Sammy and the students visited Blackman Fish farm to study animal husbandry to start ours when we move to our new building. There were different kinds of farms. These include fish, crocodiles, pigs, sheep, bees etc. He took us through the farm and educated us on its establishment.

Bachelor's degree class

This class is ongoing. Currently, the second batch is in the section. They had their first class in Greek with Samuel Papa-Woode as their instructor. The class was very interesting as he exercised patience in teaching them. Ten (10) students were present for the course.

Workshop: BVBI Directors

It was a great day as we organized a workshop for the directors of the Extension Schools on our new project: Digital Library, and coming together as Bear Valley Bible Institute Family. The directors present were Joshua - Takoradi, Daniel - Cape Coast, Emmanuel - Kasoa Ashtown, Amoo-Gyimah - Kasoa Papaase, Peter - Accra East, E.O Larbi-Accra Doboro, Daniel - Sunyani, Adjei Mensah - Tamale, Alex - Kumasi, Larbi Young - Koforidua; Steven and Karen, Kojo, Sammy, and Accra school staff.

These men were present during the course on how to install the Server and the WiFi device and connect to external devices. Steven took them through the class. Every director was allowed to practice installation and how to use the digital library. Steven and Kojo enlightened us on the aim of the Bear Valley Bible Institute Family and the way forward.

We also agreed to organize a yearly seminar for all Bear Valley Bible Institute Students on the true doctrine of Christ and His church. A committee was formed to organize this year’s seminar. Members of the committee include Joshua, Sammy, Gyasi-Quansah, and Alex. Currently, the committee is working out to have its first seminar in 2025.

The workshop was successful as all left with happiness.

Leadership Class For Akotoakrom Church

Having planted the Akotoakrom church, we had the opportunity to encourage the men to give diligent attention to the doctrine and church works. We scheduled leadership training, which was dated every Saturday to educate them on the way of Christ. On our first meeting, Sammy and E.O. Larbi met at one of the public school’s rooms and E.O. Larbi taught them the art of worship. They were assigned prayer and exhortation at our next meeting to practice what was taught to them. Many questions were asked and were taught to be faithful to Christ.

Conclusion

We are grateful to God for the wonderful work done this month. We are hoping to do more in April. We implore you to keep praying with us as we remember our new brethren at Akotuakrom for the love of God.

Peace and mercies be with us all.

Report By E. O. Larbi

Strong evangelism in Accra East

Bear Valley Bible Institute International, Accra East

First Quarter Reports- 2024

Courses Taken

The first quarter was started on the 05th, the first Friday in January 2024. The quarter ended on last Saturday in March which was on 30, 2024. Within this quarter the school was able to complete three courses, and these are as follows:

·        The book of 1,2 & 3 John

·        The book of James

·        The book of Galatians

 House-to-House Evangelism 

The house-to-house evangelism went on in three communities. These were Gomoa Asebu, Santor, and Awutu Breku Twiime. There are congregations in those communities. The students were sent to those congregations on rotational bases, two or one student on every Sunday. With these, three baptisms were recorded all took place at Awutu Breku, Twiime.

However, the first major evangelism campaign of the school took place at Gomoa Asebu on 29th-31st March, 2024.   We also took that opportunity to visit the backsliders and encouraged them to come to church. The students who were able to take part were eight (8). We also had few members at Gomoa Asebu church who also joined us. The rest of the students who couldn’t make it to Gomoa Asebu will go and do follow up on next week. No baptism was recorded. But good news is that one of our prospects promised to baptize next week on 07th April 2024. He even came to church and worshipped with us on the Sunday.  Our campaign led to the increase in the church attendance as many of the backsliders also came to church.    

Report on Awutu Breku Twiime, church 

Awutu Breku Twimee church of Christ is the product of Bear Valley church planting program.  It was planted last year September 24, 2023 by Accra East. By the end of first quarter, 2024 the church has recorded three baptisms. The average attendance is twenty-five (25). Accra East students have been going there on rotational bases on every Sunday. Sometimes two and sometimes one student. The students also did a free will contribution and were able to buy eight (8) galvanize pipes to put up a temporary structure on a plot of land offered to them by one of their members.

This year 2024 church planting program 

This year church planting will take place at Achanisa-Abobiri in the Eastern Region. It is a small village, a cocoa community. The campaign and inauguration of the church will take place on 26th -28th April, 2024. During our feasibility studies we saw that the community has only five denominational churches, this were, The Church of Pentecost, Bethel Church, Calvary church, Presbyterian Church and Divine Healing church. They are Akan speaking community.   One of the students, Akwasi Mamah who is the resident in that community will manage the church after the inauguration.

The full program will be forwarded to the Administrator and the Coordinator, Doboro-Accra for their attention.

Item received 

New Lap top(s), and the Internet Router for research works were given to Accra East campus. I acknowledged receipt of the machines and expressed my heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to the management of Bear Valley, Local and International.   

Digital library enhancing education in Kasoa, Ghana

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE – PAPAASE (KASOA, GHANA)

REPORT FOR THE FIRST QUARTER (JANUARY TO MARCH) 2024

The grace of God through Jesus Christ has once again found favor with us – Bear Valley Bible Institute family in the entire world. As a result of this, the period has come for Papaasi School in the Central Region of Ghana to review her work for the first period of the year 2024.

I.            SCHOOL BODY

Last year (2023) April, six of our students did graduate without certificates because they were yet to complete the required courses. It will interest you to note that they had completed the rest of the courses and that this year, precisely in April they would be awarded their diploma.

Bear Valley (Papaasi) can boast of continuing students of six. Since the reopened of the school in January, six more students were enrolled. The students population now stands at twelve (12).

II.            DIGITAL LIBRARY

Just last month, Emmanuel Amoo-Gyimah received a Digital Library Equipment (comprise, a router and a server) on behalf the school from Brother Stephen Ashcraft. This equipment had more than ten thousand articles and other reading materials. This has enhanced teaching and learning. Reading and other research works had been made easier for students.

Pictures enclosed indicating students’ busy working on the digital library in class.

III.            CHALLENGES FIRST QUARTER CAMPAIGN

On the school drawing board were activities to be organized as from 29th to 31st March at the newly planted church at Mankomeda. As activities were made up of: Tracts and Pamphlets Distributions & House to House Evangelism. The program would be ran up with Worship and “food fellowship.”  

As at the time of writing this report, with mixed feelings, the school could not raise enough money for the said program.

On behalf of the preacher at our newly planted church, I wish plead with our readers to come to the aid of him. The preacher Daniel K. Nkrumah is a married man with four children.

IV.            NO PLANTING OF NEW CHURCH IN 2024

Management, teaching staff and students has come into an agreement that there will not be church planting this year. The reasons being that, we would like to focus on the growth of the newly Mankomeda. Besides, our preacher is not well-cater for monetary.

Furthermore, the church is worshiping a school which belongs to the public. We need to buy a plot of land to put up a meeting place. As such we are asking our readers to come to our aid in both cash and in kind.  

Compiled by Emmanuel Yaw Amoo-Gyimah

(School Director)

Cooperation is key in Koforidua, Ghana

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE, KOFORIDUA, GHANA

First Quarter 2024

INTRODUCTION

Once again we need to be grateful to our Creator for taking care of us through 2023. May He continue to bless us as we strive to serve Him better in His Kingdom.

STUDENTS

Nine of our students are graduating coming April 20, 2024 leaving ten continuing students including one new student, Emmanuel Coffie.

CLASSES

We have had three courses taught: Denominational Doctrine and Godhead was handled by Paul Larbi Young and Hermeneutics 1 was taught by Emmanuel Yaw Amoo-Gyimah.

STUDENTS ACTIVITIES

Students from the local congregation have continued to be sent to work with some smaller congregation that we have started to teach and preach.

Students went and helped their colleague who has been engaged by a congregation nearly in a public preaching. Speakers for the programme were students on Sunday, all the appointments were handled by the students.

New leaders have been selected to lead the continuing students with Ebenezer Agyiri as their prefect.

DIGITAL LIBRARY

We are grateful for the router and the server sent for the school to use. We will put these materials to good use.

CAMPAIGNING FOR NEW STUDENTS

We will continue to do our best to campaign for new students to keep the school active.

CONCLUSION

We pray the good Lord will continue to bless our supporters and the school as a whole so that through our effort many will be brought into the knowledge of our saviour Jesus Christ for salvation.

Reported by Gyan-Mante

New church plant thriving in Ash Town, Ghana

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE, ASH TOWN, KASOA – GHANA

First Quarter Report, 2024

INTRODUCTION

We thank God for ushering us into the New Year 2024. May His name be praised forever and ever. Below are happenings in the first quarter 2024 of Bear Valley Bible Institute, Ash town, Kasoa, Ghana.

ADMISSION OF NEW STUDENT

The school admitted Sister Evelyn Owusu, a University graduate who showed interest in studying the Bible with us during this quarter, making our number add up to 14 students.

CLASSROOM ACTIVITIES

Three courses were taught during this quarter. The book of Galatians, Pastoral Epistles and World Religion were all handled by Emmanuel Larbi. Fourteen students took part in these courses.

STUDENT ACTIVITIES

Students who preach for local congregations taught and exhort brethren during this quarter. Brother Michael Oberkoh Teye was very instrumental during this quarter. He assisted Rock City congregation in Kasoa in Sunday Bible Studies and public preaching. Nyanyano Church also invited him to give a health talk during this period. The rest of the students also helped their respective Congregations in Teachings and exhortations.
UPDATE ON ADOM ESTATE CHURCH

The Director visited the congregation for the first time after its establishment to see the progress of the church on 24th January, 2024. Baptized members in attendance on that day was 48 and the children were 27 in number. I was glad to see three students leading the congregation. Sister Charity Boadu Quansah who is also a current student, has handled the children's class since the church started.

After service, I met with the leadership to discuss my observations with them and gave out suggestions on how things can be improved.

In March, I visited them again to see whether the suggestions I gave them have been implemented. There has been improvement since the last time I visited them.

FOLLOW UP

On the 3rd February, 2024, students embarked on follow up at Adom Estate community using the prospect forms they had filled during September, 2023 Campaign.

BAPTISMS

We had three (3) baptisms as a result of students' efforts.

DIGITAL LIBRARY

We have received a digital library from Bear Valley, USA, which will help us in our program of study. Students have been introduced to the library and have started using it. We are grateful to the School for giving us this library.

STUDENT PROFILE

Samuel Owusu Akoto is our student personality for this quarter. He is 35 years of age.15thMay, 2004 was when he got baptized. Samuel is married to sister Doris Aziegah who is also a member of the Lord’s church with two children. He is a Janitor for a Savings and Loans institution in Kasoa. He is a Youth leader at Opaeikuma church in Kasoa. He helps the church in teachings and exhortations. He is industrious. Sam says since joining Bear Valley School he has got much knowledge in sermon preparation and it has also challenged him to study more.

CONCLUSION

We are very much grateful to the Leadership of Bear Valley Bible Institute, USA and the Brotherhood for supporting the school in all aspects. May the good Lord richly you all and replenish whatever you have lost.

Reported by Larbi.

Church plant plans in Ghana

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE, NSAWAM, GHANA

FIRST QUARTER REPORT, 2024

Introduction

Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. The following were our activities for the first quarter of 2024.

Classroom Activities

There were three courses offered this quarter; Homiletics 2 and Hermeneutics 2 both taught by Emmanuel Amoo-Gyimah and Galatians, taught by Wisdom Yirenkyi.

Evangelism and Church Planting

Preparations are still ongoing to ensure that our campus plants a church at Akotoshie in Accra this year God willing.

Impact on Congregations

Our students continue to teach and preach in their local congregations and make a massive impact. What we hear of our current students is nothing but praise. This certainly is due to the sound teaching our students receive at the feet of our instructors. Long may this continue.

Student Profile

Brother Shadrack Ojun is the student we are focusing on for this quarter. He is one of the leaders of the student group at Nsawam. He attends the Nsawam Road church of Christ where he serves as a new converts’ class teacher. He also works for the World Bible School. He is very promising and we are glad to have him with us.  

Conclusion

We are grateful for Bear Valley’s assistance during this quarter. We pray God’s blessings in this regard. And brethren, please continue to pray for us.

Kind regards,

N.Y. Aidoo

New instructor in Accra, Ghana

End of February 2024 Operating Report, BVBI Accra

Introduction

God has been good and merciful to us. We will always praise him for his love and the numerous favour he has always bestowed on the ministry. Our heart is filled with full of joy. Praise him forever and ever. Amen.

Classes

Our instructors are doing well with their lessons, endeavouring to teach with all cheerfulness and in good health. Our students are also participating in their studies and research works.

New Instructor

We are happy to introduce our newly appointed instructor brother Shadrach Oppong. He is married with 2 children. He has recently completed his master's with Bear Valley Bible Institute, also working as an Evangelist. We have observed from him that he is sound in the doctrine and has a passion for teaching. He is with a media group, chariot TV which educates the church and public in the way of the Lord. He has endorsed the doctrinal position of the school and taken up the teaching responsibility with the school.

Number of Instructors

Currently, we have ten (10) instructors of which two (2) are mentoring to take over from the aged. The instructors include: E. O. Larbi, Kojo Acquah Beenyi, Emmanuel Amoo-Gyimah, Samuel Sasu Ntim, George Osafo Anim, Emmanuel Gyasi-Quansah, Shadrach Oppong, Wisdom Yirenchi, Ebenezer Amoasi, and John Acquah.

Report of Survey for church planting

Sammy and some of the evangelized team went out to survey the area for the campaign. Below is the report:

Paanor (school site)

1.      Campaign schedule for two weeks or more beginning from 1 to 14 April 2024

2.      Rent for John Acquah, chamber, and hall self-contain – 400.00 per month

3.      Chief of the town has promised us a plot of land with registration in the town by the road side at fifty thousand Ghana cedis (50,000.00)

4.      We met a couple (Michael and Dora) who were members of the church. They have built an apartment which will help us to host some of the team members.

5.      We had an old lady and a gentleman who promised us three  rooms for our stay for two weeks for the campaign

6.      On Sunday, John and Eric will be visiting the two nearby churches to announce the campaign  and their support for the programme

7.      We also cited a river and a good place for baptism in the next town (ie. River Densu)

Akotuakrom

8.      Campaign schedule for 1 week starting from 18 to 24 March 2024

9.      Unfortunately our car broke down and left it at the village to get it fixed the next morning

10.  We found five (5) members who were members of the church

11.  A couple who were members of the church has promised us rooms to receive our team and all participants

12.  We found a stream at the next two towns for baptism

13.  The members are ready to cook for the participant

14.  Meeting place: we have been promised to use the town school’s classroom for our assembly until we get a piece of land.

Visit churches for new students

Brother Amoo-Gyimah and Sammy visited all the Suhum township churches and some of the brethren at Teacher Mante, Kyekyere, and Asuboi to campaign for faithful men who has the desire to do the Lord’s work.

Flyers and announcement have been sent to all students in the weekend schools for students who may wish to switch to full-time class. In all we had two (2) students and two (2) brethren from the local church to start with the class. In total, we have ten (10) students for the full-time class.

We thank God for his guidance throughout the month’s activities. We hope to do more in the next month.

Reported by Bro. E. O. Larbi

Monday evangelism produces fruit in Ghana

OPERATIONAL REPORT FOR FEBRUARY, 2024

1.     CLASSROOM WORK

Classroom work continued for the month of February. Most of the courses for the term were completed by the end of February and other courses are near completion. Courses like leadership, Hermeneutics – 2 and Homiletics – 2 have been completed for the term. There has been significant improvement and development in the students’ knowledge in scripture and other areas of their lives.  

Part-time classes also continued steadily in the month as well. Some of the students are in the last term of their studies. Courses being taught include: world religions, epistles of John and Jude and denominational doctrines.

2.     PERSONAL EVANGELISM AND BAPTISM

The work of the Lord is also actively ongoing. There were various evangelistic efforts in the month of February. Our past and current students are still working to bring the message of the cross and the kingdom to many who have not heard it.

As reported last month, our current students now go out on Mondays for community evangelism. This month, they went to the town where Bro Joshua Aidoo preaches for the evangelistic work. The school has introduced this to help make the students more evangelistic, so that when they complete, they will have some skills to start and develop congregations.

 Thank you very much for your great commitment towards God’s work. God bless you.

Joshua.

Reaching the lost in northern Ghana

BEAR VALLEY INSTITUTE OF BIBLICAL STUDIES, TAMALE - GHANA

JANUARY 2024 OPERATING REPORT

The year 2023 ended successfully on a high note; giving us a lot of anxiety for the year 2024. We give glory to God for crossing all of us through into the year 2024. In the month of January, 2024, we kicked started the year 2024 with lots of hope for the future. We started 2024 in higher grounds, praying that the year will move forward in a very positive direction as we are hoping for. We wish all a happy new year. And we hope the Lord keeps us all safe till the day appointed for eternity. Below are a series of activities we engaged in the month of January 2024.

KPALSI SOUTH CONGREGATION

Leadership is one of the greatest arms of the church that can bring growth in all areas of every congregation. Leaders were appointed in the year 2023 for the Lord’s church in the local congregation in Kpalsi South. We saw it necessary, for a smooth progress of the congregation, to reinforce the leadership in January 2024 for a more effective and sound running of the congregation. New leaders were added, while some of the old ones were replaced, and some moved from where they were serving to a more suitable area. We praise God for guiding us as a congregation to run effectively.

We also in the month of January hosted a love feast that brought together members of our congregation, neighbors (most were Muslims) and sister congregations in Tamale. We took advantage of the event to share the word of God and we shared some physical supper with them. It was an admirable event.

In the month of January 2024 also, one soul was added to the Lord’s church by the grace and mercy of God. We praise God for the many blessings we continue to enjoy.

Kpalsi South congregation indeed received some extreme blessings in January 2024. Brother Steven Ashcraft was also in Tamale, and did bless us with some great spiritual meals on giving. We pray that the Lord gives long life, peace and good health. We pray not for only him, but him and his entire family.  

EVANGELISTIC STEPS

It is emphatically true without a bit of doubt that evangelism (soul winning) is the center of God’s heart. Christ died because of souls. He died to seek and to save the lost as stated in Luke 19:10. Brother Steven Ashcraft, with his absolute commitment for mission work and souls, was in Ghana in the month of January, and came to Northern Ghana, precisely Tamale to embark on some fruitful activities towards our evangelistic efforts. Haven inspired us to increase our evangelistic efforts by establishing evangelistic teams across Northern Ghana, it was necessary for him to come evaluate, strengthen and encourage us for the work ahead of us.

STAFF MEETING: Brother Steven’s first activity when he arrived in Tamale was to hold a staff meeting with the resident staff in the school to evaluate the work being done. He took time to guide and instruct us on the way things could be done more effectively for a much better result. Some of the things discussed were related to administration, recruitment for the next batch, the need for better team work, the evangelistic efforts within Tamale, and the entire Northern Ghana and also cross border evangelistic work. We had a very successful discussion with a wonderful and harmonious end.

MEET WITH EVENAGLIST TEAMS: The second meeting he held was with the evangelistic teams established across Northern Ghana. Brother Steven took time to define our common goal, which is to save souls and establish and maintain strong congregations. He further gave some ideas and ways we could achieve this goal. Provision was made for individual teams to make a brief presentation on how each of them goes about their work in their localities. Brother Steven came back to encourage each of them and gave his comments on what they could do better for a much better result.

MEETING WITH EVANGELISTS FROM TOGO AND GHANA: Brother Steven also held a meeting with the Tamale staffs who are into evangelistic work with two evangelists from Togo to exchange some knowledge and ideas to see how possible we could collaborate to work in the border cities between the two nations and possibly other nations that share borders with us. There is also currently a denominational preacher and members' conversion lessons that are going on in Tamale that we in Tamale learned from the brethren from Togo through Brother Steven. Their presence was an opportunity for us to tap into their success stories and make good use of it. Meeting them gave us a better perspective of what works better for that and what doesn’t, with them being the pioneers. We also considered the need for us to work together in our efforts to reach out to some of the Francophone nations. It was also a wonderful meeting.

MISSIONARY JOURNEY TO SAMPA (GHANA) AND BONDOUKOU (IVORY COAST): The two evangelists from Togo (Fidele and Cephas), together with Brother James Legend (Ghana Tamale), embarked on a missionary journey with Brother Steven Ashcraft after the meetings in Tamale which all took place between the 12th and the 15th of January, 2024 to Sampa, under the Bono Region in Ghana.

At Sampa, they met with the Preach for the only congregation in Sampa and some of the sisters who were available to discuss matters of the church and possible evangelistic work. We had a very smooth discussion, where we considered the possibility of the brethren in Sampa working with the Brethren in Bondoukou for effective missionary work. It was a very fruitful dialogue, which got the preacher for Sampa (Brother Sa-Yaw David) inspired to join us to cross the border to Bondoukou to meet with the Brethren there for better conclusion.

We all crossed the Border into Ivory Coast, to meet with the brethren in Bondoukou. Brother Koffi Roger, an evangelist from Abijan in Ivory Coast also traveled to join the team at Bondoukou for the missionary journey. We met Brother Amadou Logossina Quattara, who is the evangelist for the congregation in Bondoukou town in his residence. A very fruitful meeting took place, but was inconclusive, because it was necessary to have some of the evangelists who are from that locality, and are working with Brother Amadou to contribute to the discussion.  Brother James and Brother David (from Sampa) who are Ghanaian were tasked to return to Sampa and lodge, so they hold a meeting the following day with Brother Amadou and all the concerned evangelists included to find a way forward. Brother Steven and the rest of the team lodged at Bondoukou that day, which was the 17th of January, 2024 so they could continue with the missionary journey forward, toward Sera-León, Liberia, Guinea etc.

As planned, Brother James and Brother David went and lodged at Sampa, and returned to Bondoukou on the 18th of January, 2024 for the meeting. Four additional evangelists join the meeting together with Brother Amadou, James and David. A very fruitful conclusion was drawn at the end of the meeting. The Brethren from Bondoukou were ready and did accept to team up and work as a team to help strengthen, restore and plant new congregations in their area. They also saw the need for them to train up leaders and possibly also implement the denominational program to help convert denominational pastors and leaders into the Lord’s church. We also agree that the brethren from Ghana and Togo make time and join the brethren in Bondoukou to inspire, encourage and help in their efforts. After the meeting, Brother David and James Returned to Ghana and James proceeded from Sampa to Tamale. We praise the Lord.

AIDING WORKING EVANGELIST

In the month January 2024, as part of the efforts of Brother Steven to encourage evangelists who are doing their best for the work of our master Jesus, he made funds available to purchase a motor bike for one of the committed preachers in the Upper East Region. He is Brother Elijah from Sandema, who works for the Sandema Wiega Congregation. He is also working with the Sandema Bolga Evangelistic team. Brother Elijah was very appreciative with support given to him to aid him in his work as a preacher. He pledges to do his best to use the machine for the interest of Christ. Words of encouragement were also given to him during the presentation ceremony.  

JOINT EVANGELISTIC CAMPAIGN

Towards the end of the month of January, we embarked on a joint evangelistic campaign to the North East Region, precisely, Bunkpurugu. We embarked on a one week church strengthening mission. The Tamale evangelistic team together with the students and the Bunkpurugu team came together to embark on this one week journey. We had a very fruitful journey. We had door to door or one on one studies with individuals throughout, as well as the public preaching in the evenings.

Topics treated at the public preaching were, the three dispensations, the one true Church, The Holy Spirit and Miraculous Gifts, Worship of the Church and the Judgement of God. Indeed, all the activities that took place were worth it.  At the end of the program, 28 souls were added to the Lord’s Church, with 5 restored successfully. We give God the glory.

It is our hope that God will help us do more for His kingdom this year forth.

Thank you,

Bear Valley Tamale

Students in Takoradi begin second year of training

OPERATIONAL REPORT FOR JANUARY, 2024

Dear Brethren,

This is our report for the month of January.                                        

1.     CLASSROOM WORK

The students resumed on Monday, 15th January, 2024 as indicated in the last report. Tuesday was used as a cleaning day. They cleaned their rooms and the campus.

Classes started on Wednesday, 17th January. This is the first term of the 2nd year, meaning that they will complete the school at the end of this year. We are happy to announce that, we have admitted a new student this year. The number of regular students now stands at nine (9).

Teaching and learning has begun and the students are going to be taken through courses like, hermeneutics-2, homiletics-2, life of Christ-3, Old Testament-4 and Preacher and his work.

The part-time students have also resumed classes; they did that on Saturday, 13th January 2024. They wrote examinations on some of the courses they did before the end of year break. Now the courses they are studying are epistles of John and Jude and denominational doctrines.

2.     PERSONAL EVANGELISM AND BAPTISM

A new year is upon us and our good God has given us strength to continue with the work of evangelism. Our current and past students are seriously spreading the good news of salvation. In order to inculcate the spirit and attitude of evangelism into our current students, Mondays are now used for personal evangelisms. The students go out into nearby communities to spread the good news. So far, many people have heard the gospel and God has blessed their effort with a soul.

There was a week-long evangelism organized by the Church at Nsein where Douglas Armah preaches. He invited nineteen (19) old students of the school to help him out. Many people were privileged to hear the undiluted word of God during the public preaching as it was live on a radio station. The Lord has so far added ten (10) souls to His Church.

Old students are still using social media and other avenues to proclaim the gospel.

New church plant in Ghana

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE – PAPAASE (KASOA, GHANA)

REVIEW FOR THE FOURTH QUARTER (OCTOBER TO DECEMBER) 2023

Starting with the review of the period stated above, I would like to quote from the prophet Isaiah, “O Lord, You are my God. I will exalt You, I will praise Your name, for You have done wonderful things. Your counsels of old are faithfulness and truth.” – Isa. 25:1. Despite the ups and downs of life, the Almighty God’s counsels and faithfulness had taken to the end of the year 2023.

Nevertheless, the review cannot be done without first of all expressing our gratitude to the Almighty God for His love and heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to brethren who had over the years continue sponsoring all Bear Valley Institutions throughout the entire world.

I.        CHURCH PLANTED AND CHALLENGES

It is almost six months the school per supports from Bear Valley USA and Evangelical Team in Ghana put in place planted the Lord’s church at Mankomeba the next town after Papaase in the Central Region of Ghana. With this the school is much grateful to all personalities for making this possible.

So far four baptisms had been recorded. About seven members who were then worshipping at other towns had now placed their memberships with the Lord’s church at Mankomeba.  On every Lord’s Day, some of our students do worship with the newly established church to strengthen her till she is able to stand her feet.

Nonetheless, the preacher in this newly established church needs financial support. He was before the establishing of the church, running his own work-shop of constructing iron gates and doors for houses. Of late, the work-shop is closed down temporally, as a result of the preacher preaching from house to houses in order to win souls into the kingdom.

II.            CAMPAIGN FOR NEW STUDENTS

Last April, about six of our students graduated. As such campaign is ongoing for more students. Current population of students is eight (8). There is much hope that more students will be admitted. Two prospects had already submitted their admission forms. 

III.            DISTINGUISH STUDENTS

Brother Shadrack Essel is ongoing student at the Bear Valley Bible Institute, Papaase-Ghana. Shadrack is a Banker. He was baptized on 9th August, 2015. He is yet to marry. He is one of brilliant students. 

I would like to recommend Brother Moses Addo, even though he graduated last April for wonderful he is contribution towards the spread of the Gospel of Christ. Through his own effort, he has established a “Local FM” where every dawn between the hours of 4:00 to 5:00am preaches the message of God.

Cape Coast school plans campaign

BEAR VALLEY, CAPE COAST

REPORT FOR FOURTH QUARTER OF THE YEAR

DECEMBER 2023

PREAMBLE

The Bear Valley School in Cape coast has finally completed two years of academic work as at the end of the year. By hard work and perseverance the school has managed to grow through from its initial setbacks of limited resources and enrollment and is now brooding and flourishing with much attraction.  We praise and thank God for helping and guiding us to achieving such a wonderful feat. We are also grateful to our benefactors who are constantly and expeditiously responding to our needs. God bless them indeed.      

OVERVIEW

Starting with just a little over ten students in February of the year 2022, the school keeps on attracting students from across the region. Our numbers now stands at 38. As at the writing of this report, three new students have picked up forms to commence studies with us from the January of next year. It is our hope that more students will be joining our ranks for deliberate and effective biblical studies. 

Lecturers from other church of Christ bible schools have also expressed various interest in our school and their documentations are currently under review for onward approval from our coordinators. The improvement in our students’ work rate, participation and output in their various congregations is a testimony to the good works we are putting in here as we keep attracting interest and attention of the people of the central region. Brethren from all around the region keep calling to make inquiries about our programs and activities. 

As stated in earlier reports, the school is fast gaining notoriety with very sound Christian doctrine at the heart of everything we do here.

SUPPLY OF RESOURCES

During the year we also reported on the breakdown of our computer system which has been delaying our reports and also our printer. It is with much gladness that I report that the printer has been replaced with a new one which is even better than the old one. We are very much grateful to our benefactors as this will go a long way to help augment our activities here. 

The year review also saw the supply of various literature to our school. These supplies greatly helped in our evangelistic drives as we were able to supply and share with the people we evangelized with. We however run out of these supplies and requested for additional ones which are yet to be delivered. Sometimes it is sad when prospects keep requesting for bibles and we are not able to give them.

I must however acknowledge again the wonderful help that we had when we received the supplies of the Preacher’s Box. We are so much grateful for it, and we request more supplies of it in the future so that we can give it to those joining us. They have been very helpful to all our students. 

COURSES 

As at the end of the December 2023, we have successfully completed 19 courses from our course outline and syllabus. We have also entered 17 of those courses successfully in our data system which forms part of the students’ academic records. We are currently waiting on two of the records from our external lecturers. Hopefully they should be ready in our report for the first quarter of next year.  

PREPARARTIONS FOR EVANGELISM 

Our previous report has indicated that we intend to embark on a weeklong evangelistic campaign in the Gomoa District of the Central region. Mankoadzi Township has been selected for this program. Student are prepared and ready for this adventure in this year as well. The experiences from last year’s campaign will be brought to bear on this one as we hope to fine tune and make corrections from last year’s setbacks.

PROJECTIONS FOR NEXT YEAR / QUARTER

As a school we have strategized and agreed on some evangelistic missions in the next quarter. We have had some practical training for the students, and we will be kicking off in MARCH. We hope to invite and collaborate with Preachers and church leaders who are closer to this place to help augment our activities during the one week evangelism at Mankoadzi. The Mankoadzi area comprises of about five adjourning communities and suburbs. 

It is our hope that our benefactors will make available both financial and material resources for such exercises when the time comes, because these exercises has to be sustained until a total growth is realized. Already the school has elected two people from amongst them to be in charge of the new church that will be established and it gladdens my heart the seriousness these students put into it. 

STUDENTS ON TRANSFER

I announce here joy the advancement of some of our students within their employment agencies. Two of our students have had promotions in their work places and as a result have been transferred to new places. This makes it very difficult for them to attend classes on regular basis. Though they have been asked to defer and concentrate on their work, they insist on being part of the school and will continue to study until they have completed all their courses.

One other student has also just been employed, but he is also outside our jurisdiction and is difficult for him to also attend classes. 

Though both are good news in their entirety, the students are sad because they will not be able to learn from their diversified views during class debates and discussions. 

ATTENDANCE TO BIBLE CAMP

The school went on recess in the third week of December. This was because our host church was preparing to attend the annual gospel meeting in another district. Students were thus encouraged to attend this program to familiarize with activities at this program and also to meet seasoned gospel preachers. 

It was a great joy as students were able to attend this program to the amazement of our Ghanaian Coordinator, Brother Kojo Acquah who is one of the Chief Patrons at this program. We hope to keep using such opportunities to learn anytime the chance comes. 

STUDENT PROFILE

RICHARD COBBINA

Introducing our student of the month RICHARD COBBINA. 

RICHARD is a product of the University of Cape Coast. He is originally a catholic but was moved by the sound teachings of the church and converted to become a member of the true church in the bile. He is currently unemployed and single. 

He joined the bible school two years ago with the sole aim of studying to gain adequate knowledge and understanding of the scriptures. Richard yearns to share the true and undiluted message of the cross and as such he wants to learn more so that he can be an effective worker for the Lord.

Due to his dedication and hard work in the church's activities, he is always given various roles to perform in his local church by the leadership. He has served as the secretary for his church and he is an active youth member of his local church. 

His desire is to complete his course of studies and keep on spreading the gospel message as effectively as he can so that lost souls would also have the opportunity of repentance.

Thank you again for your continual support and prayers.

Yours in Christ,

Daniel

Church Planting in Accra, Ghana

                                    End of January 2024 Operating Report, BVBI Accra

Introduction

It is with much joy for a new year. Glory be to God our Lord and Saviour for ushering us into a new academic year 2024/2025. The administration, teaching, non-teaching staff, and the student body, all thank God for His merciful love, protecting, and providing for our needs throughout the past years. Furthermore, we thank our brothers, Steven, and Keith, the administration of Bear Valley and supporting brethren in the US, individuals, and local churches in Ghana for their prayers, support, and the advertisement of the school. God bless everyone.

SCHOOL’S SCHEDULES FOR FISRT QUARTER

This quarter’s courses and instructors include: Old Testament 1 (Pentateuch) - E. O. Larbi, Hermeneutics – Emmanuel Amoo-Gyimah, Cost of Discipleship – Kojo Acquah Beenyi, How We God the Bible – Shadrach Oppong Sika, Computing & Elementary Greek – Samuel Sasu Ntim, Research and Writing – George Osafo Anim.

Short courses with Instructors: Personal Evangelism – Emmanuel Gyasi-Quansah, Scheme of Redemption – Kojo Acquah Beenyi.

Campaign and Other Schedules

These include the students and evangelism team of Southern Ghana for all evangelistic activities. Targeted areas for church planting: Paanor, Akotuakrom, Medie-Kotoku Road.

Follow ups: Pakro road, Ankwa Doboro, Fotobi, and Akwamu

Tracts sharing campaign: Nsawam and Amasaman Marketplaces

Trip: Blackman Animal Husbandry, and Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park

Teaching Practice and Mentoring: Doboro, Kasoa SCC, Teshie Main  

NUMBER OF STUDENTS FOR THE NEW ACADEMIC YEAR

As reported in our previous reports, almost every time admission is open to every member who may wish to school upon our regular advertisements. Currently, we have admitted Seven (7) students. Recruitment campaign is ongoing through visiting the local churches and seminars.

CLASS ACTIVITIES

Classes have begun with their instructors as mentioned above. All the students are participating well.

 EVANGELISM

Tract Sharing Campaign at Nsawam Market

Mondays and Thursdays are market days for this town. As part of our evangelism activities, the school and the campaign team have decided to share tracts during these days.

As we prepared for this evangelism, we prayed to God for His guidance in the crowd for a successful event.

We took three boxes of the tract with the title Rightly Dividing the Word of Truth and other mini booklets. The marketplace was big enough that we could not cover a quarter until the tracts were finished. The activity was so interesting that some of the market women devoted their time for us to share the gospel with them. Some were astonished that our message was new to them. Most questions were asked on tithing “Is it Biblical to pay tithe” and “What is the truth church of the Bible and the direction if they want to visit them.”

Having accomplished the mission, we have decided to speak to the administration on our next tract-sharing campaign, we shall mount speakers and horns and preach while others walk through sharing the tracts and dialogue with individuals.

Furthermore, we found an old woman who introduced herself as one of the members of the church but was unable to find the location of the church. We tried to locate her house and introduced her to Brother Moses Edison who was a past student and an evangelist at Ayigbe Town church to fellowship with them. A sad moment was when some of the members confessed their withdrawal from the church. We had time to dialogue with them to have a change of mind to restore.

SURVEY ACTIVITIES FOR CHURCH PLANTING

Some of the campaign team members and Sammy went out to survey areas to plant churches. We went to Paanor which is to our New School Building Project. We spoke with the chief of the town about the upcoming campaign and gave us the right hand to start the work. He introduced to us a piece of land at a cost of C50,000.00 near the road when we were ready to plant the church.

We also went to Akotuakrom in the Eastern Region where we found four (4) members of the church who complained about the cost of proximity.  They were happy to hear about our mission in the town. However, we have decided to plant the church in this town in March 2024. We also introduce the school to the man who has been a member for two (2) years to think about coming to study the word to handle the church in his town.

STUDENT’S PROFILE

Brother Silas Adjei has recently completed his courses and waiting on graduation. Silas is 27 years old, he is single, and a preacher at the Medie Ketewa congregation. Silas is a hardworking young man who loves missionary work. He is part of the campaign team of the school. This man always attends the Top Radio campaign with E.O. Larbi on Tuesdays. He reads the Twi Bile during the radio programme. He also helps the office of the school.

Conclusion

We thank God for His protection throughout the Month. Keep praying with us.

Report by E. O. Larbi.

Accra, Ghana school presses on

BVBI Accra

End of December 2023 Operating Report

 Thanks be to God for His mercies, guidance, given us the strength in the ministry. We faced much challenges yet all things work out successfully. Staff and students say glory be to God.

We also appreciate the brethren in Ghana and America, Jefferson City, Mountain Home, Brother Steven, Kojo EO Larbi, Keith and all teaching and non teaching staff for their kind support for the year 2023. God bless you all abundantly for your generosity.

Academic

This month marks the end of the academic year. We have come to an end of 5th batch of our students. We are preparing for our next graduation. In all we have run 5 academic years since 2014. Now, Accra school is 10yrs. The last courses taught were 1,2, and 3 John and Denominational Doctrine by Emmanuel Gyasi Quansah, Elementary Greek by Sammy. This quarter was the first time our students were introduced to Greek studies. They were much impressed with the lessons. All the students were present during all the courses.

Campaign

Top Radio Evangelism

As we regularly report on the radio campaign, it is in session every week on Tuesdays 2:00pm to 3:00pm at Top Radio 103.1. We are much happy that our Lord is protecting and guiding us through this activity. As we reported on support for the programme, we are patiently waiting on you for support to enable us sign a new contract. By next year April 2024, the contract will expire. We are privileged to have you informed that some companies ran by our members have expressed their willing to support. The companies are Givers Herbal Clinic, Time Textile, and Meshbee Micro Credit. We hope they fulfil their promise

Tebibianor Evangelism Campaign with E.O. Larbi

Just few weeks ago, E.O. Larbi was invited to preach during the evangelism campaign at Teshie Tebibianor. This local congregation was planted by Teshie Main which E.O. Larbi is the evangelist. He has worked for many years with this congregation and planted five (5) churches in this area. During the Teshie evangelism, three (3) souls were converted to the Lord.

We are grateful to the Lord for the success of the programme.

Ebenezer’s Health

Ebenezer is one of our recent brothers and students, who will graduate next year April, 2024. He has been facing health problems. He was admitted at the New Life Hospital for about four (4) weeks. Ebenezer helps to keep the school’s office and all paper works (ie. Printing and typing of exams for students and teaching staff.

Ebenezer is still receiving medication and preparing for surgery in January 2024. We are pleading with you to remember him in prayer that God will see him through and for quick recovery.

Interview With new students

Interview was conducted on 21st December, 2023 for new students. We admitted six (6) students for the academic year 2024/2025.

Next Year’s Activities & Students

Our next academic year 2024/2025 begins with new students by names:

1.      Emmanuel Ahenkora

2.      Stephen Kwaben Gorman

3.      Stephen Kponyor

4.      Fredrick Owusu

5.      Mosby Aryeh Tei

6.       Ebenezer Arthur

Courses to begin in the first quarter are Research & Writing, Hermeneutics 1 (Introduction to Bible Interpretation); Old Testament 1 (Study of the Law: Gen. – Deut.); How we got the Bible; Cost of Discipleship; Scheme of Redemption; Personal Evangelism 1; Computer Studies; Elementary Greek.

Campaign / Visiting Activities for Next Year 2024

As planned by the school, on the campaign calendar the school will embark on evangelism in the following areas:

1.       Top Radio Campaign

2.       Media – Kotoku church planting

3.       Paanor Church Planting

4.       Pakro road – follow up

5.       Fotobi – follow up

6.       Ankwa Doboro – follow up

7.       Tract Distribution – Nsawam market places

8.       YouTube Video Streaming

9.      Kwame Nkrumah Museum

10.   Blackman Farms

We are much grateful to the brotherhood that supported in funding for PA system, Generator, Voice and Video Recorder, and other supporting electronic devices. We hope to use these gadgets for the ministry of Christ.

It is our prayer that what we have on our plan, our Lord will give us strength to finish up.

Keep praying with us.

Happy New Year

Reported by E. O. Larbi

New Students in Koforidua, Ghana

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE, KOFORIDUA-GHANA

FOURTH QUARTER REPORT - 2023

Introduction

Thanks be to God for seeing us through another year, 2023.

Students’ activities

In addition to our usual planned public preaching, the requirement of the school which was held with the Osabene Congregation, where one of our instructors and a student preaches. The second public preaching was also with another student, Bro. Lawrence Larweh. He preaches for the Okrakwadwo congregation.

All the preaching was done by the students. Majority of the students worshipped with this congregation on the Lord’s Day after the program. The students were doing so all the appointments for the day.

As a result of our visit to the congregations around, two new students have been added to our enrollment adding up to 18 students. They are Stephen Adetu and Franklin Asamoah Boafo. They are all doing well.

All the students who are taking leadership roles in the various congregation as stated in the third quarter report are doing pretty well and would like to step up whatever they are doing in 2024 Lord willing.

Courses

We have had three courses read. They were all taught by Bro. Paul Larbi Young. They are the book of Hebrews, Logic and the Bible and Intertestamental Period.

Plans

Our plan to start a new congregation could not come on as the result of the situation of our Director, Brother Kwabena Gyan – Mante who had mild stroke. Thanks be to God that he is recovering and hope he will be fine very soon.

Conclusion

Finally as said in the last report, we would like you all to continue to pray for Brother Kwabena Gyan- Mante.

We continue to be grateful to you all for what you are doing in the expansion of the King’s Kingdom. May His name be praised.

Evangelism in Ghana

OPERATIONAL REPORT FOR NOVEMBER, 2023

 CLASSROOM WORK

The full-time students brought the courses for the academic year to an end. This is the 3rd term of the academic year. The students were taught six (6) main courses this term though they are yet to study short courses. The courses for the term were wisdom literature, intertestamental period, book of Romans, prison epistles and worship. The last week of the month was used as a revision week, where the students studied on their own in preparation for the end of term examination.

Examinations will be conducted in December, after which there will be two-week short term courses before school vacates.

The part-time students continued their studies in the month of November. Joshua Aidoo concluded his course on logic and the Bible. Douglas Armah started teaching congregational development in the month.

PERSONAL EVANGELISM AND BAPTISM

The school embarked on the termly campaign for Christ at a village called Manso. The local congregation solicited the help of the school to spread the gospel in the township. On Monday, 20th November, the car took off from the school’s premises for the village. We were about 24 in number, comprising of current students, instructors, cooks, and past students.

Though the road network to the place was very bad, by the grace of God we got there successfully around 3:30 p.m.

The message was propagated throughout the town and it was well received by many. The problem we had there as is also the case in many of the villages is co-habitation of men and women without being married.

Altogether, it was a successful week, because many got to hear the truth from the scriptures. We were blessed with four (4) baptisms.

Our return journey took place on Saturday, around 12p.m and we got back to campus in the evening of 25th of November.

There were other evangelistic efforts by current and past students throughout the month of November.

Special seminar in Accra

Bear Valley - Accra

Operating Report for November 2023

We thank God for a successful month of November 2023. We are grateful for His grace and guidance in all our activities.

Class Activities

The following classes were conducted in November:

- Bro Gyasi-Quansah taught the last short course on world religion and denomination doctrines. The students learned about the history and doctrines of various religious groups and denominations and how to respond to them biblically and logically.

- Bro Kojo Acquah Beenyi met the second batch of Bachelor’s students on congregational development. Six students were present and they discussed the challenges and opportunities of developing and growing a congregation in the contemporary world.

- Bro Samuel Sasu Ntim taught Elementary Greek where he delt with areas such as Greek alphabets, vowels, diphthongs, breathing marks, and syllabification. The students appreciated the introduction to the original language of the New Testament and its relevance for biblical interpretation and exegesis.

- Bro E. O. Larbi also taught the Book of Revelation and Christian Ethics. The students explored the apocalyptic genre and symbolism of the book of Revelation and its application to the church today. They also studied the ethical principles and issues that Christians face in their daily lives and how to make moral decisions based on the word of God.

Exams and Research

The students took their exams at the end of the quarter and submitted their research papers on various topics. The lecturers graded the exams and papers and gave feedback to the students. The results showed that the students performed well and demonstrated their understanding and skills in their respective courses.

Visitation to our Students' Churches

Bro Samuel Sasu Ntim visited two churches for the last quarter at Pakro Road and Fotobi. He observed the worship services and the activities of the churches. He also interacted with the members and the leaders of the churches. He reported that the churches faced some challenges such as leadership issues by some old brethren at Pakro Road and the numerical growth of the the church. Also, the Fotobi congregation is challenged with a noisy environment due to five instrumental churches circling the brethren. This has made four baptized members difficult to worship. He also offered some suggestions and solutions to resolve these challenges. He encouraged the churches to remain faithful and steadfast in the Lord. A relocation is ongoing for Fotobi church for comfortable services.

Talk with Past Students

We had a great and successful talk with our past and present students. We had a good turnout of our alumni who came to share their experiences and testimonies. Bro Keith spoke to us about Bear Valley policies; the importance of continuing education and lifelong learning. Bro Emmanuel Amoo-Gyima taught us about the role of the preacher in the church and society. Bro Kojo and Bro E. O. Larbi also made good contributions to the discussion. We were inspired and motivated by the words and deeds of our past students.

Working on Campaign for New Students

We are working on a campaign to recruit new students for the next academic year 2024. Currently, we have six outstanding applicants who have expressed interest in studying with the school. We are following up with them and providing them with the necessary information and guidance. We are also planning to conduct some campaign activities in the following places: Tamale, Pakro Road, Fotobi, and Akotoshi. We hope to reach out to more potential students and persuade them to enroll in the college.

Radio Campaign

The college has been conducting a radio campaign to promote the college and the gospel. The director, Bro E. O. Larbi has been delivering interesting and edifying lessons on the radio. He has made a great impact in advertising the college and solving counseling problems. He has also brought many people to know Christ through radio messages. We thank God for this opportunity and we pray that more souls will be saved through this medium. However, the college still needs more funds to sponsor the radio campaign. We appeal to all our brethren and well-wishers to support us in this endeavor.

We will need (GHC 48,000.00) Forty-Eight Thousand Ghana Cedis to continue this programme when the contract ends next year April 2024 apart from transportation. We still need your kind donations both in cash and in prayer.

School Bus

We are finding it very difficult in our campaigns and visitation because of the non-availability of school bus. The bus facilitates our movement in preaching and teaching, and wish a new bus is acquired. Hope to help find funds to purchase a new one next year.

Conclusion

We thank God for a fruitful month and the safe return of Bro Stephen Ashcraft. We also thank all our partners and friends for their prayers and support. We pray that God will continue to bless and prosper the work of the college and the church. Amen.

Great evangelistic work in Tamale, Ghana

BEAR VALLEY INSTITUTE OF BIBLICAL STUDIES, TAMALE - GHANA

POST OFFICE BOX TL 925

OCTOBER 2023 OPERATING REPORT

We are marching forward by the special grace of God in Bear Valley Tamale in all areas. We thank the Lord for His gracious blessings upon us all.

EVANGELISM AT NYOJODO

We had a very successful missionary journey to the Zabzugu Tatale district in the Northern Region. It was an effective evangelistic journey put together by the Zabzugu evangelistic team and the Bear Valley Action Evangelistic teams for the first time. The program brought together 36 valiant men with a few women in addition.

We were at Nyojodo to revive a dead congregation. The community is a great mission field with the majority of its inhabitants being youth. The community is dominated by Paganism, Islam, and two denominational bodies (Roman Catholic and Church of Pentecost). We had a great time there and hope to build a good leadership in this congregation to help us grow the congregation. The community has a population of about 1400 people.

We had both public and door-to-door preaching at Nyojodo. A great conversion was also made. We had 23 souls added to the Lord’s church, with 7 souls restored also. A beautiful evangelistic journey it was. You could see great love playing among the entire group of evangelists who took part in this missionary journey. It is very possible if things are well handled with this congregation, we could get some workers for the Lord’s church.

There were some natural challenges we encountered which were normal. The rains didn't give us enough time to preach. Some of our days were disturbed by the rains, notwithstanding, we still had some success. It is our hope that this congregation will grow to become a self-supporting and existing one. Oh yes, it is possible and we will work hard to achieve that with the help of God.

VISITATION AND SEMINAR

In the month of October 2023, Brother James Bisong Legend embarked on four days visitation journey to the Zabzugu Tatale District again in an effort to strengthen some of the congregations. He hosted a two day seminar with the Jomoni congregation to deal with the issue of paganism. Haven received a message of some mysterious deaths and sickness of some indigenes of the community that has brought fear on many of the believers. it was necessary to go and educate them on the power of God. Many of the members were living in fear, as the deaths and sickness was linked to one sorcerer in the community. The situation left many of the saints in the Jomoni congregation living in fear, which warranted the seminar. Many were empowered to depend on our Lord Jesus Christ for protection and guidance in every situation. The preacher of the congregation, Brother Shei-Laboir David, encouraged himself, as he was also battling with snake bites. We praise the Lord that after the program, many confessed to being liberated from going back to the dark world. Praise the Lord.

Brother James also took the opportunity to visit and to address another issue at Nagbindo congregation under the Sanguli area of the Zabzugu Tatale District. The issue relates to Christians living with women who are not their legitimate wives. In some of the tribes and traditions in Ghana, it is allowed for one to stay with a woman and have children before performing the marriage rites. These traditions were moving into the church, becoming a normal thing. We had to go sit with the leadership of the congregation to address those issues. Christ won at the end of the day, as many admitted after us reasoning with them from the scriptures that they needed repentance, and did produce the fruits of repentance by sending their women away until the marriage rites were performed. We give God the glory for His grace and guidance.   

ANNUAL WOMEN SEMINAR

The annual seminar hosted every year on the campus of the Bear Valley Tamale by the women across the Northern Region took place successfully in the month of October 2023. Women of several congregations took part in it. On the final day of the event, which was the first day of week, all the congregations within Tamale came together at the Kpalsi South Congregation to worship. Brother James Legend taught the adult Bible class on the Topic: Youth and Substance Abuse. Brother George Dassah gave the sermon on the topic: Holding Firm the Doctrine of Christ.

The event and the worship was a successful one.

ACADEMIC AND CAMPUS ACTIVITIES

Students resumed back to campus to continue with their academic activities in the month of October after spending a good number of days with their families. Brother Albert Tamanja Malir took them through Old Testament 2. All of them were back to campus on the scheduled reopening day. We give God the glory for their commitment.

 SCHOOL GARDEN

We harvested the last batch of our crops from the garden. We are hoping to get not less than two bags of maize from what we harvested to support the feeding of our students. As we have finished the harvest, we are moving forward to continue preparation for the dry season farming. We are determined to put things in place to deal with some aspect of feeding our students. Yes, and yes, we are determined to do so. We know it’s a matter of time and we will successfully handle it.

We give thanks to the Lord for His blessings. Amen.

Thank you,

Bear Valley Tamale.