Training evangelists in Nigeria

Dear fellow soldiers of Christ.

Grace and Peace be multiplied unto you from God our Father and from Christ Jesus, our Lord and Savior.

Below is the summary of our activities in the Lord in this month of March 2025.

OVERVIEW 

1. One of BVBIN & SWSE-IBADAN instructors has gone home 

2.Third Semester Classes commence 

3. Weekend Evangelism Outreach blessed with Seven baptisms and five restorations

4. Report from BVBIN & SWSE-IBADAN Extension Center in Sabo Sagamu , Ogun State 

5. Southwest School of Evangelism Ibadan - Kiddies Academy 

ONE OF BVBIN & SWSE-IBADAN'S INSTRUCTORS HAS GONE HOME:  

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Bro. Ebenezer Olugbenga Ojo, a devoted servant of God and esteemed instructor at BVBIN & SWSE-Ibadan. After a brief illness, he has gone home to be with the Lord.  

Bro. Ojo was a man of great wisdom, kindness, and unwavering faith. His life was dedicated to serving both God and his community, particularly through the education of children from less privileged backgrounds. As an evangelist, he faithfully ministered to the **Lord’s Church in Jago Town, Ona-Ara Local Government Area, Oyo State.  

His journey of faith began in April 2015 when he was converted to the body of Christ through the Voice of Truth International booklet. Before embracing the truth, he had been a denominational pastor. Seeking a deeper understanding of God's Word, he pursued theological studies at Bear Valley Bible Institute Nigeria and Southwest School of Evangelism (BVBIN & SWSE-Ibadan) from 2016 to 2019, earning both Diploma and Advanced Diploma certificates. At the time of his passing, he was also pursuing a BVBIN degree.  

Bro. Ojo’s deep knowledge of the Scriptures, coupled with his steadfast faith, made him a respected spiritual leader. His words of wisdom and guidance touched the lives of many.  

Born on May 25, 1960, he completed his earthly journey and received his final degree (RIP)on February 27, 2025. He is survived by his wife and three children.  

May the Lord grant his family the strength to bear this loss and fill them with His peace that surpasses all understanding .

  THIRD SEMESTER CLASSES COMMENCE: 

As scheduled, third-semester classes at BVBIN & SWSE-IBADAN will begin on March 10, 2025. However, many students returned to campus as early as March 8 in accordance with the school directory.  

The following ministers have been assigned to teach during this semester:  

- Makinde Ebenezer Olufemi

- Isaac Olaniyan Oluwole 

- Eniafe Kayode Solomon  

- Makinde John Oluwatilehin  

- Durojaiye Odeyemi  

- Oladokun Samuel Ayobami 

- Olowe Bode Oluwatilehin 

- Olaegbe Samuel 

Additionally, Bro. Folorunso Richard Oluwapelumi and Sister Esther Oyenuga will continue their roles as computer instructors.  

This semester will span only six weeks, as the second semester lasted ten weeks. 

WEEKEND EVANGELISM OUTREACH: 

On March 8, 2025,  the students and staff of BVBIN & SWSE-IBADAN launched their evangelism outreach, initially covering five locations.  By March 15, with the return of Year-2 students, the outreach expanded to twelve locations.  

Through God’s grace, their collective efforts led to:  

Seven baptisms

Five restorations  

These spiritual victories were recorded in the campus church, Butu-London, Butubutu Village, Ode -Ajagba Ondo State and Aparadija in Ogun State.  

To God be the glory and honor !

STUDENT PROFILE:

Bro. Oladipupo David Ayomikun was born on December 21, 2006, in Abuja. His father was from Osun State, while his mother hails from Kogi State. Sadly, he lost his father during his teenage years.  

Since 2020, he has been one of the eight students benefiting from the Gahana-Jefferson Church of Christ scholarship program. On August 4, 2021, while in Senior Secondary School, he embraced the Christian faith and was baptized.  

In 2023, immediately after completing his Senior Secondary School* examinations, he gained admission into the Ministerial Department of BVBIN & SWSE-IBADAN. His primary mission at the institution is to share the goodness of God,  particularly with children from underprivileged backgrounds. This stems from his own family’s experience—his mother converted from Jehovah’s Witnesses to the Lord’s Church in 2018, and through God's grace, he was awarded a scholarship for both his junior and secondary school education.  

Looking ahead, Bro. Oladipupo aspires to become a gospel preacher after completing his tertiary education.

Conclusion: We are deeply grateful for your partnership and support for the evangelization of both urban and rural communities of African Countries most especially in Nigeria.

May the Lord continue to bless all our work together in Christ Jesus name, and.

Sincerely yours in His Grace and Love as a servant ,

Makinde Ebenezer Olufemi 

The Chief Servant of BVBIN & SWSE-IBADAN and WBSFUW

Great work in Arusha!

Grace and Peace to you friends. 

Thank you for your continuous prayers for this great work!  Today I want to share with you some updates from our faculty at the Andrew Connally School of Preaching.  First, our co-director, Charles Mwanga says this: 

“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is a gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. (Eph. 2:8-10). We have all been given the chance to share our abilities we have in His kingdom so that we can all bring as many as we can to Christ, we can bless as many as We can in Christ and we can prepare our ways as we follow Christ. This is a noble work to the extent that, God prepared it beforehand. We here at Andrew Connally School of Preaching are doing our level best to work together with the Lord. This is through training faithful men who will go out and train (commit) these things to others also.

 “The year has started very well here at ACSOP, we have a total number of 35 students, 15 are in the second-year class and 21 new students who are in their fist year. We are soliciting your prayers as we begin this new classes. We have students from Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania who will be spending their time here studying on who they can be beneficial in the Kingdom where they come. These men have left their homes and families to come here so that they can be better workman in the Lord’s vineyard.

“We thank all the full - time instructors, short course instructors and all those who are endeavoring every day to make this work moving forward.

“During our break times, normally students who are still in school are asked to go back and work with the congregations where they came from. This will benefit them in two ways. One, they will grow on their knowledge since they are putting in to practice what they have learned, but secondly, they will create a better environment since many of them will be working with some of the same people  when they return back home after school. During this time our students were able to set up 105 bible classes, 21 baptisms, 8 restorations, 3 new churches were planted and 4 public (air) meetings were conducted. We thank God for these efforts, and we are continuing to pray that all that has been done will grow to His glory. We also thank all the students who participated in Working with the Lord during this break time. To God be all the Glory.

“We are continuing with our classes, please keep us in your prayers daily. We would also like to take this opportunity to THANK YOU ALL. To those of you who have been making possible for this work to continue as it is. May the Lord continue to bless you beyond measure. May He continue to keep you and yours as you are working with Him through praying and supporting this work. Many souls will one day be in Heaven, because you chose to support this.”

One of our instructors, Desdery Massawe, adds these stats:

“This week we are going to wind up the first quarter according to our teaching time table and also is the first week for masters class.   The instructors this week are:

The first year class is taught by John Hall and the course is Bible geography. 21 students are in the class.  The second year class is taught by Charles Mwanga and the course is the How We Got the Bible. The masters class is taught by Jerry Bates, and the course is the book of Hebrews. This masters class is the first year and the first course for them.12 students were enrolled to join masters class.”

I appreciate both of these men and their commitment to reclaiming lost souls for Christ.  I would add that this is the largest English-speaking class that I can remember in more than a decade that I have been associated with this work!  It is exciting to see it continuing to grow!  With so many students, there is a growing need for scholarships to provide for their education.  Our friends, Harold and Lana Pirtle, are spearheading an effort to raise funds specifically for scholarships.  I encourage you to visit the website here and learn how you can contribute to this need.  You can also see a well-done promotional video here.

Till all have heard,

Daniel Gaines
Mission Coordinator

More souls saved in Malawi

Hello!

It is with great honor to send you this update about the work in Ekwendeni Malawi. We are thankful to the Lord for the students who graduated from our school. These men are doing a commendable job of serving souls to Christ. This month, we have received reports from 6 graduates that 12 souls saved through baptism and 27 more restored! This show how restless they are in winning souls to Christ. 

Teaching!

The work of teaching is going well. We are so thankful to short course teachers who are always ready to help us teach. This time, we had brother Wongani Gondwe, who was teaching preacher's life and his work. The students enjoyed his class. So far, we have completed 6 courses.

Preaching campaign!

We are planning to have our first preaching campaign at the end of May to the beginning of June before the students go for their one month holiday. We are blessed to have these men who have left everything at home for the sake of Christ. Please keep them in your prayers  

We are always thankful for the support from BV international and the Hillcrest Christian family. We know and understand that without your prayers and involvement, we could not be where we are today. God bless your families. 

Your fellow servants in the Lord,

Ephron and Clergynton

Mission Printing helps in Cameroon

Dearest in the Lord,

Greetings from this part of the globe. We do hope you are doing well in all that you do for the Lord and His church. God has always remained faithful to us even in the midst of difficulties and stumbling blocks that have been put in our way. We are thankful to God for you, as you continue to make your calling and election sure.

The new students, that is the Theta batch, are doing their best to cope with the new lifestyle in the dormitory and on the campus away from their homes. It is the most challenging for the married students to adjust.

Mission Printing another ocean container of tracts and other useful books for preachers in Cameroon. It was highly welcomed with great joy as many came out to help. The truck got to our campus where we could easily offload the truck. Our roads to the campus are not very good but we managed to get the truck pretty close to our campus for offloading to avoid too much stress from "head carrying" the boxes to the tract storage room. This particular container will serve the English part of Cameroon, the French speaking parts of Cameroon and Chad, and it contains some Arabic tracts for Chad as there are many Arabic speakers in Chad that we are zealous to share the gospel with.

After their short courses in March, the Bear Valley Bible students in Wotutu hit the road to 18 different locations with the assignment to preach, to teach, and to nurture congregations. We made a new T-shirt for this batch with an inscription, “THETIANS FOR A MISSION.” We realized that many congregations in the hinterland were either dead or they were dying due to the crisis that has been hitting Cameroon for the past 8 years and counting. As the crisis begins to subside in some areas, we take the gospel there because the gospel is for all.

Brother Gabriel traveled to the hill country of Lokando 2 and discovered that the congregation had closed the door for the past 5 years because there was no one to preach, as almost everybody escaped the village because they were afraid of bullets. He had never been there before, so he embarked on house-to-house evangelism to fish out some of the lost souls who were ready to return to the Lord.

These are the ones who were willing to come back, but the news has gone to the different hiding spots of those in the forest so now they know that there is someone who can conduct worship. In the future, as we will embark now on weekend evangelism there, the church will get back on track. Please, your prayers are needed.

 The staff of the Bible institute were also in different mission fields. I also traveled to other places and was able to make it to the Alumni evangelism organized by one of our graduates in Loum. Cyprine is a great worker for the Lord. Loum is a very stony area as you can see behind the blue and yellow painted building where the church in Loum meets. Evangelism is our mission and our mission is evangelism was echoed again, and it brought a reawakening to the spirit of sharing the gospel free of charge to the world.

After visiting Loum, I moved to Bamenda with tracts for evangelism and Bibles for the new converts there. This material will help to empower the church in the Sisia quarter.

Sharing the word of God is amazing. Handing over a copy of the word of God to a brother or sister, usually provokes smiles and happiness. I like giving out Bibles to people that truly need one. It gives me great joy to know that they will now have the written word of God to read, anytime they choose.

Our Bible students are all back on campus with one new student who missed the entire first quarter because of family issues. He is on campus and will be taking the first quarter courses little by little before the two years elapse. The student body now moves to 19 soldiers who are ready to carry the gospel to the many ends of our great country.

APPRECIATIONS

Thank you very much for all you do. You are just the square peg, of just the right shape and size, to keep doing the good work. God is watching and is giving increase to the work of your hands

Plans

Evangelism is the top item on our agenda. We have some virgin missions planned within this month so that we can take the gospel there. It is for this reason that we have been called out. Mark 1:38

Make a great day

Elangwe and family

By His grace Director BVBIC-Wotutu

Studies Continue Studying and Evangelizing in Nairobi, Kenya

NAIROBI SCHOOL OF PREACHING 

We thank God for how far we have reached, this marks the end our third quarter at Nairobi school of preaching. We wish to send our happiness and joy being part of the biggest B.V. schools. Secondly, we thank all students who are tirelessly offering their time and resources to attend Saturday classes, It is a big challenge to all but God has been so faithful to us all.

We also wish to appreciate our local teachers: Samson Omutele who lastly taught preacher and his work, Frederick Ramoya who taught old testament 2, and Kennedy Munubi currently doing life of Christ (Matthew) .

Students are also helping in evangelism works in their local congregations within and out of Nairobi.

Part of the faculty have been also out of Nairobi for lectureship and campaigns around Kenya.

We are happy to say that our library is functioning well.

We wish to thank you all for your efforts in supporting Lord's work all over!

Students Continue their Studies in Takoradi, Ghana

Hello Brethren,

OPERATIONAL REPORT MARCH, 2025                        

1.     CLASSROOM WORK

We thank God for the successful end of yet another month. Greetings to you all from the West Coast School of Preaching. Academic work continued throughout the month for full-time students. This month, courses that began in January were successfully ended. The students have now completed courses on Christian Evidences, Homiletics 1, Hermeneutics 1, Life of Christ 1 (Matthew) and Old Testament 1 (Genesis – Deuteronomy). The end of the first term is almost upon us. 

Classes for the part-time students also continued this month. They started the month studying three courses but one course was successfully completed during the month. The instructor for Life of Christ 1 completed the course with them and also conducted an examination. Now the courses being studied are Hermeneutics 1, which is taught by Joshua Aidoo, and Christian Evidences, which is taught by Douglas Armah.

Students in Sunyani, Ghana Continue to Evangelize

BONO AHAFO COLLEGE OF BIBLICAL STUDIES – SUNYANI, GHANA

CAMPUS OF BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE INTERNATIONAL – U.S.A

Praise and glory be to Jehovah God for His mighty protection upon instructors and students, throughout traveling within the first quarter of 2025, by His grace all instructors and students were punctual to classes and to all the programs within this quarter.

1)      COURSES THAT WERE TAUGHT DURING THIS FIRST QUARTER OF 2025

The year began with the teaching of Old Testament 1 (The Law), in February 2025 Old Testament 2 (History) was presented, the Last course taught during the quarter was Old Testament 3 (The books of Poetry/Wisdom Literature).

2)      STUDENTS AND STAFF CAMPAIGNS

House to house evangelism with the students at Dr. Berko and Nwawasua townships were conducted. As a result of one challenges of a meeting place the Nwawasua Church is yet to be planted. The total number of baptisms at the end of the first quarter was five baptisms.

3)   STUDENTS AND INSTRUCTOR’S PARTICIPATION IN A ONE-DAY SEMINAR HELD BY BRO. JOE CORNEL: A MISSIONARY FROM USA

Instructors and students participated in a one-day seminar which was conducted by brother Joe Cornell in Sunyani on Tuesday 7th January, 2025.

Extended School in Nkoranza, Ghana Plans to Plant Two Churches

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE INTERNATIONAL NKORANZA CAMPUS, GHANA

REPORT FOR FIRST QUARTER 2025

PREAMBLE

The Bear Valley Institute in Nkoranza is making a head way in preacher training and evangelism, though Nkoranza Bible School has been in existence for the past 8 years. When Bear Valley came on board last year, the school had grown from strength to strength when partnered with Bear Valley. Resources received have contributed immensely. We praised and thanked God for helping and protecting us to achieve such a wonderful feat. We are also grateful to our sponsors for responding to our needs.

OVERVIEW

The Nkoranza study center is one of the evangelistic schools in Ghana propagating the gospel and assisting congregations in teaching and preaching. The population of the school is 16 of which 8 of the students completed 24 courses before the partnership, they are expected to graduate God willing in the third quarter of 2026.

COURSES AND EVANGELISTIC ACTIVITIES

As of the end of the first quarter (March 2025) students have completed and examined on Christian Leadership, Hermeneutics, and Life of Christ 1. We have entered their results into the student database.

In the next quarter, thus April to June we were expected to treat courses in the Life of Christ 2, 3, and 4. With the help of digital libraries received, teaching and learning is moving on well.

Even though we did not organize a gospel campaign as a school, individual students and staff took part in personal evangelism with some baptism. Ghana’s Independence Day is 6th of March. On that day Rexford together with the evangelism committee of Sunyani central church embarked on street evangelism and tracts distribution on the principal streets of Sunyani, we distributed more than three thousand Bible tracts on that day, we were able to get some prospects who have started visiting nearby congregations.

PROJECTION FOR THE NEXT QUARTER

As an evangelistic institution we have planned to reach out to many souls in the next quarter by expanding our gospel campaign activities to Nkoranza area where the gospel has not yet reached, we are hoping to expand the kingdom beyond.

We have planned to plant two churches within the year. Hoping to plant one in the next quarter and possibly another in the third quarter God willing.

Our students and staff are well prepared to engage in that Godly assignment. Hoping to convert many to Christ by collaborating with churches eager to evangelize.

It is our hope that God will help our partners to continue support us in that regard.

THE STUDENT’S PROFILE

Brother George Borah is a member of the Lord’s church and a student of Bear Valley Bible Institute Nkoranza campus. He was the twelve son of Mr. Kwaku Awale and Mad. Abena Ackah all of blessed memory. He was born on 21st December, 1993 at Dromankese in the Nkoranza North Municipality of Bono East Region Ghana.

He was baptized on the 10th of January, 2012 in Dromankese, he had his Senior High Education at Busunya Senior High School and graduated from Sunyani Technical University in 2022 awarded with Higher National Diploma in Purchasing and Supply.

Brother George was raised by his late mother, his father passed on when he was 6 months old, he has really suffered in life. Among his siblings he is only member of the Lord's church. Brother George is yet to marry, his passion is to propagate the gospel to the lost and reach out to those in need. He took active part in gospel campaigns and church planting activities.

On Saturday 1st February, 2025 brother George Borah came to write exams on Christian Leadership at Nkoranza Campus, upon returning to Dromankese, fire guttered his residence and burned the whole house into ashes without picking anything. The unfortunate aspect is that he is seeking employment after graduation from the tertiary.

Notwithstanding, Brother George Borah enjoyed reading Job 1:20-22 “Then Job arose, tore his robe and shook his head and fell to the ground and worshiped. And he said, “Naked I came from my mother’s womb and naked I shall return. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away”. Even though Brother George Borah lost everything but still trust in the Lord for replenishment.

Prepared By:

Rexford Agyare Mintah (Director)

Nkoranza Campus

Updates from Belo Horizonte, Brazil

Here's what God has done in Brazil during this last quarter.

January - March 2025:

- Two courses offered (Marriage & Family [Class Picture Attached] and I & II Corinthians)

- 20 students 

- God added 3 souls to His Kingdom through the lives of staff and students

I ask for continuous prayers for this ministry.

In Christ,

Alex Girodo

Students in Nsawam, Ghana, Continue their Schooling

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE, NSAWAM, GHANA

FIRST QUARTER REPORT, 2025

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 2025.

Classroom Activities

There were three courses offered this quarter; 1 & 2 Peter and 1, 2, 3 John & Jude, both taught by Wisdom Yirenkyi, and Marriage and Family Life by Emmanuel Yaw Amoo-Gyimah.

Impact on Congregations

Our students continue to teach and preach in their local congregations, making a massive impact. I visited the Okushibiade Golden City church. The minister of the congregation, our alumnus Yaw Boadu, truly impressed me with the good work taking place, all spearheaded by Brother Boadu. May this long continue, and may God’s holy name be praised.

Funeral Activity

As reported last quarter, William Danso passed away on December 10. Therefore, on March 15, we attended his burial service in his hometown of Kwahu Praso. As mentioned previously, we won’t grieve like those without hope. We will continue to live and work for God’s glory, trusting that we will see Brother Danso again in the sweet by and by.

Student Profile

Brother Shadrack Ojun is the student we are focusing on this quarter. He is a leader of the student group at Nsawam. He attends the Nsawam Road Church of Christ, where he serves as a teacher in the class for new converts. 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 for God’s blessings in this regard. And brethren, please continue to pray for us.

BVBI in Cape Coast, Ghana, Completes Three Years of Schooling

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE, CAPE COAST

REPORT FOR FOURTH QUARTER OF THE YEAR

MARCH 2025

PREAMBLE

The Bear Valley School in Cape Coast has finally completed three years of academic work as at the end of last year. As we began the year, we had our eyes firmly set on the completion of our programme of studies for the first cohorts of students. 

Faculty members and students alike have been working really hard to make sure we make the deadline of completing our studies by the end of the year, in fact, the students are already dreaming of continuing with the first degree right after they obtain their diplomas.

It is also refreshing to note that by dint of hard work and perseverance the school has managed to grow through from its initial setbacks of limited resources and enrolment 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

As stated in earlier reports, the Cape Coast Study Center is arguably the fastest growing of the Bear Valley schools in Ghana. Our numbers currently stand at 36. Two students joined our ranks in the beginning of the year after we did a lot of campaigns and ran some adverts on the local radio stations. It is our hope that more students will be joining our ranks for deliberate and effective biblical studies.

It is with much admiration and pride that I say here and again, that the school has gained a notoriety with very sound Christian doctrine at the heart of everything we do here.

We also hope to graduate the first batch of about 12 students by the end of the second quarter of the year. These students have finished up with almost all of their course work and are currently trying to complete a few ones they have not taken yet.  

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. 

COURSES 

As at the end of the March 2025, we have successfully completed 38 courses from our course outline and syllabus. We have also entered 36 of those courses successfully in our data system which forms part of the students’ academic records. 

In this first quarter of the year, we were able to complete these courses: INTERTESTAMENTAL PERIOD, CHRISTIAN ETHICS AND THE MAJOR PROPHETS. We hope to continue with studies in: THE WISDOM BOOKS, CHRISTIAN LEADERSHIP AND THE MINOR PROPHETS in the second quarter of the year.  

ATTENDANCE OF BIBLE LECTURESHIP PROGRAM

The school was invited to attend a Bible Lectureship program during the month of March. Students at this program wowed attendees as they espoused sound Biblical knowledge on a lot of the issues being discussed at the program. 

It also afforded students the opportunity to market themselves to all the churches that were in attendance. Some of them had invitations to visit some the congregations that came for the program. We hope to keep using such opportunities to learn anytime the chance comes.

DANIEL BIRIKORANG

DIRECTOR

CAPE COAST STUDY CENTER

Nigeria Extended School in Enugu Celebrates Graduation

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE - NIGERIA

Enugu Study Center  3/4/2025

*First Quarter Report January to March* 

 *Introduction* 

All glory must be to the Lord Almighty, for He alone is worthy of our praise. And to the management board of the international and national body of Bear Valley Bible Institute world wide.

The principal, goals, and objectives of BVBI Family were observed within the period of writing this report, and will continue to be the paramount goal of the BVBIN Enugu Study Center.

We are grateful to God for another Year to work for Him.

 *I. ACTIVITIES* 

1. In January, we had our classes for the four (4) Saturdays of the month.

The course studied was the Life of Christ Matthew.  By Onwuka SJ Kelechukwu (Evang./ Instructor).

2. We had one day Evangelism with the Church of Christ Garriki.

3. In the month of February the course Studied was  Homiletics by Hillary Johnson C C. (Evang./Instructor).

4. We had graduation/matriculation on 27/2/25, Bro. Chard Wagner was in attendance, we appreciate his presence.

5. Bro. Keith Kasarjan visited us in Enugu on 8th of march 2025. His visit was a great blessing to us as He approved our proposal of having second branch of Enugu study center, hopefully to start by May 2025.

6. The students went out for campaign on 29th march 2025.

7. This month course was handled by Sunday Utobo to conclude Homiletics

8. We had one (1) baptism and 10 prospects

 *Instructors* 

1. onwuka kelechukwu (January )

2. Hillary Johnson (February )

3. Sunday utobo (March)

 *Summary* 

We appreciate your support for the program and pray that God will continue to bless your efforts and other supporters.

Thank you

You’re in his vineyard

Onwuka SJ Kelechukwu (Director, BVBIN Enugu Study Center)

Successful Evangelistic Outreach in Accra, Ghana

Overview

March was a productive month for the southern institute of Biblical studies, marked by two significant short courses, Radio preaching, House-House evangelism visitation, staff meeting. These initiatives are aimed at enhancing our academic offerings and expanding our student body.

1. Staff Meeting

The staff convened for a meeting to discuss ongoing projects, aftermath of the 7th graduation and the 8th matriculation ceremony, and address any administrative matters. The meeting fostered collaboration among faculty members and provided a platform for sharing insights on improving student engagement and learning outcomes.

2. Top Radio Preaching

Every Tuesday, the Bear Valley Bible Institute has been actively involved in a preaching program on the "Church of the Bible" radio show. This initiative has provided an excellent opportunity for faculty and students to reach a broader audience, sharing the teachings of the Bible and promoting the mission of the institute. Feedback from listeners has been encouraging, with many expressing appreciation for the insights shared.

3. Class Activities

Research and Writing

Class activities led by George Osafo have focused on enhancing students' research and writing skills. Students engaged in various projects that encouraged critical thinking and effective communication of biblical concepts. The sessions included peer reviews, and presentations that aimed to equip students with essential skills for ministry and academic pursuits.

Marriage Life

E.O. Larbi conducted an engaging series on marriage life, where students explored biblical principles of marriage and family dynamics. The discussions emphasized the importance of strong, faith-based relationships and provided practical advice for students preparing for marriage and they can assist the married and the unmarried to have a harmonious relationship and a peaceful home.

4. One Week Evangelism

From 17th to 23rd March, the institute organized a one-week evangelistic campaign in the Paanor area within the Greater Accra South Municipality. The outreach included visits to various communities, such as Obise, Akutuase, Alafia, Amuzu Village, and Paanor township. The team engaged in door-to-door evangelism, community gatherings, and Bible studies, resulting in fruitful discussions and conversions.

Outcomes of the Evangelism Campaign:

The evangelism campaign yielded significant results:

Baptism: One individual was baptized, marking a new commitment to faith.

Restoration: One brother was restored to the fellowship, demonstrating the impact of the outreach and the importance of community support in spiritual growth.

Planned visitation and church strengthening 

Looking ahead, we have several planned visitation initiatives to strengthen our community ties and outreach efforts:

Scheduled Visits: we visited the Oklu- Nkwanta congregation in Kasoa of the Awutu East Municipality on 9th March. The church service ended at 11:45, with total attendance of 24 members including children.

Our presence motivated them, and as a result, increased church attendance. This is being done to strengthen and edify the local congregations established by the school to grow and assist in evangelism.

Conclusion

March was a fruitful month for the Bear Valley Bible Institute, marked by collaborative efforts in staff meetings, impactful preaching, and meaningful class activities. The evangelistic outreach successfully reached several communities, fostering spiritual growth and community engagement. We look forward to building on these successes in the coming months.

We remain grateful to our partners, alumni, and friends’ prayers and encouragement.

May the Lord bless our endeavors as we strive to fulfill our mission.

By E.O. Larbi

School in Abia State, Nigeria, Continues to Operate Well

REPORT OF THE NIGERIAN INSTITUTE OF ARTS AND THEOLOGICAL STUDIES/ BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE – NIGERIA

NTIGHA- ONITCHA NGWA

MARCH 2025

INTRODUCTION

It is another opportunity for us to take statistics of the business of the month. We are grateful to all our sponsors and facilitators. May the good Lord bless the Bear Valley family for the reawakening that is happening across Nigeria and beyond. The churches of Christ, through the work of the Bear Valley family, have brought study centers close to many brethren. In fact, more centers are opening by the day. May the good Lord bless the work in our hands, in Christ’s name, amen.

CLASSES AND VACATION

Classes started early in the month of February and officially stopped on the 25th of February. Revision began on the 3rd through 7th of March. The examination started on Monday the 10th and spanned through the 19th of March and the school vacated on the same 19th of March. The school will be on resume activities on the 12th of April.

LIBRARY

On the 19th and 20th of March, the students helped to evacuate the old computer room. There, a temporary Library was set up. They were guided through the use of the digital library the school received from Chad Wagner, and they were so excited. The school encouraged them to get laptops for themselves upon their return from the holiday. It is not going to be business as usual. To this point, we can comfortably say that we are ready for another busy academic semester that will span from April to July 2025. This would be the second and last semester for the year two students.

EVANGELISM

The school had encouraged the students to keep up with their evangelism work at their home congregations as the need arises. We hope to receive their report on their return. So far so good.

SECURITY/FENCING

There are no new challenges. It remains to say that efforts are being made to sort things out with the community to enable the school to go on with fencing the place. One bottleneck still remains the status of the Land agreement. Both parties agreed to take a date for further deliberations. The school continues to ask for prayers to enable the matter to get resolved amicably in her subsequent meeting.

STATISTICS

1.  Number of Students: Sixteen (16) Year 1 (10) Year 2- six (6)

2.  Number of Graduates (if any this year) sixteen.

3.  Number of Campaigns: None.

4.  Number of Baptisms: None in the month of March

5.  Number of any New Churches Planted: None.

6.  Number of any Churches Restored: None.

7.  Number of Teachers: Eight (8)

8.  Number of Restorations: None.

Conclusion

We are grateful to God for another successful end of month. It is by the grace of God that we have survived to this point. To the various congregations and individuals who are supporting the work in Nigeria, we are grateful. Continue to pray for us because of the daunting challenges in this area. We must constantly thank God for the beautiful environment of NIATS. We must secure it so that more gospel preachers will be trained.

Solomon I. Usim

Director, NIATS.

March 2025

School in Gueckedou, Guinea Continues Evangelizing and Holds a Successful Women's Seminar

GUECKEDOU BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE ACTIVITY OPERATIONS REPORT FOR FEBRUARY 2025

Precious salutations to you all out there, our able supporters and well wishers of the above named institution for your continued spiritual and material support.

As usual, the time has come when we are ready to report and share some of the major activities that took place here during the month of February 2025.

There were the classroom activities of lectures of various courses, a successful gospel campaign by the school, combined Bear Valley and church leaders discussions meeting for church growth, support of women's seminar and the result of evangelistic mission works.

We plead with you to keep reading as we provide details of these events under their respective sub-headings below.

Classroom:

With this month being the second in the third quarter of our calendar, we are fast approaching the completion of one year of studies, with the present remaining 13 students for the present batch who have covered the following courses with their respective instructors.

"Christian Ethiques". Brother Balla Kamano took the students on this course for a period of week before brother Francis Lavaley engaged them on the second part of "the Life of Christ", the book of Luke and later Homiletics 1 which was taught with a lot of assignments and practical work for which reason the class went on up to the close of the month.

School gospel campaign:

Two of our students from villages toward the Macenta prefecture, Sembessou and Boboeloua had prepared some of their people and encouraged us to launch a gospel campaign in those villages. This we did, and on the 13th of the month under review we arrived in the first village, Sembessou. Unfortunately, we met with an obstacle of another program, a merriment program of loud public speakers by one who had little or no regard for God. Our time and resources were wasted, but we were not discouraged. So we proceeded to the other student Daniel's village the very next morning, and by His grace, experienced a warm reception. A one night public preaching followed by the next day's personal discussions resulted in 9 baptisms on that Sunday, the 16th February. Other plans are on the way to return to the first village either by the school or one of our evangelistic teams.

Combined Bear Valley and Church Leaders Meeting / Men's Seminar:

As a follow up of training and exhortations received from our Nigerian visiting team led by bro Mike Udam in 2024, we, church leaders and evangelists decided on meeting to discuss vital issues necessary to promote evangelism and strengthen our congregations. This meeting which was held on the 8th of February at the school campus in Gueckedou included the agenda plans to conduct seminars on activities that will promote church work and how personal contributions can be made to achieve the goals. It was a successful meeting and the congregation at Owet Djiba in the sous-préfecture of Ouende Kenema will host the first seminar on 28th to 30th of March 2025.

Women's Seminar

Since her arrival in Gueckedou in late 2024, sister Mary Musa, wife of the Director, had been on her feet to organise women's meetings for edification and work in the house of God. Many other women embraced  the idea, and so sister Musa took upon herself with the help of her son using the school motorbike to visit women of several congregations around Gueckedou. Then they set a date, and their first seminar was held in the sous-préfecture town of Nongoa from the 21st to 23rd of the month under review. Sister Anne Marie Leno, the wife of our Dean, was one of the main facilitators and the seminar was very successful with some 100 participants from 18 congregations, women uniquely. They were also able to convict 5 ladies who decided to accept Christ. Then the men, we were around and accepted their call to accomplish the conversion of the 5 ladies who were baptised on 23rd February. This kind of gathering is the first of its kind in the history of the church in Guinea!

Next April 14 is the next seminar gathering of women in the village of Dawa where the need is to strengthen that and other congregations around. It is expected to host more than twice the previous number.

Evangelistic teams Work:

There are evangelistic teams in the country initiated by our Coordinator, Steven Ashcraft. This information is not new for those of you who have followed our reports since the beginning of last year. These have been of great help in the field of evangelism and we are still encouraging our brothers in other parts of the country such as N'zerekore to partner with us.

During the month of February 3 of such teams planted churches as they baptised souls in the following areas:

1. The Gueckedou team planted 1 congregation at Kamadou with 2 baptisms. Follow ups will continue.

2. The Koundou Lengobengou (KLB) team planted a congregation in the village of Koyodou with 12 Baptisms on 23rd February.

3. Finally, the Conakry team, through their follow up work, has, with the help of one active brother, assembled some 10 persons in another quarter of Conakry (Lambanye) who are on regular Sunday meeting, studying for possible conversion. Also, at the new congregation at Forekaria the brethren baptised 1 soul.

 ln all, the evangelistic teams baptised 24 souls.

Conclusion:

The month of February had a series of activities that are initiatives for further church progress besides the usual classroom and evangelistic activities. 

We are especially thankful to God for the program of women seminar, which is another great move in the church work. They, by themselves, had 5 conversions plus the 24 other evangelistic works resulting in a total of 29 baptisms in February.

We thank you all 

May God be glorified!

Updates from Ukraine

Report for February–March 2025

Dear brothers and sisters,

We warmly greet you and sincerely thank you for your participation in the ministry!

Academic Process

In February and March, the following courses were taught:

• Oleg Fafanov (1–2 Peter, Judah),

• Volodymyr Paziy (Epistle to the Hebrews),

• I also taught the course “Personal Evangelism.”

Currently, students are undergoing their spring internship in local churches:

• Vadym – in Poltava,

• Maksym – in Bila Tserkva,

• Mykola – also in Poltava, but in another congregation.

Good News

We are happy to share that a new student will be joining us in the upcoming academic year. We pray that he remains committed to this decision and is able to fully engage in his studies.

Situation in the Country

Unfortunately, the political and military situation remains extremely difficult. The war continues, and Russia is carrying out daily attacks on civilian infrastructure in Ukraine. Despite these challenges, the Church remains steadfast in its mission, offering both spiritual and material support.

Gratitude and Prayer Requests

We are sincerely grateful to all the churches and partners who collaborate with us. Their dedication allows humanitarian aid to reach those in need, bringing hope and relief.

We ask for your prayers:

• For new students, that God may bring those who are ready to study and serve.

• For wisdom for preachers and ministers, so they may not only provide physical aid but also focus on spiritual support.

• For those receiving assistance, that they may see God’s love through these good works.

• For our brothers in America, who continue to support the BV Institute in Ukraine.

We thank the Lord for all we have and for you—our friends and fellow workers in God’s mission!

With respect,

Denys Sopelnyk

Eighth Graduation Celebrated in Tamale, Ghana

BEAR VALLEY INSTITUTE OF BIBLICAL STUDIES, TAMALE - GHANA

FEBRUARY 2025 OPERATING REPORT

The Lord is with us, and we are determined to do greater things with His empowerment. The Lord Jesus is indeed guiding us steadily this year to greater heights considering the direction we are moving by far. Into the second month of the year 2025 (February), we are feeling very positive considering the resumption of the 2025/2026 batch of students, and the improvement of steps towards discipline in the school, as well as the level of order instilled in the school so far. We pray for His strength and grace to remain focused and consistent positively as we press forward.

RESUMPTION OF STUDENTS AND ACADEMIC WORK

The 2025/2026 academic year began on the 10th of February, 2025. At the end of our recruitment process for a lengthy period of time, 38 forms were taken by potential students. Out of which 21 of them turned in for interview and entrance examination. Out of these 21, 16 of them qualified for enrollment into the institute. 9 of them reported to school on the 10th of February, 2025. 2 more reported on the 13th and the 14th of February, respectively. We still expect about four more students to join this batch of students.

Lectures began successfully on the 10th of February, 2025, with Brother Daniel Adjei Mensah teaching the Scheme of Redemption. Other courses taught in the month of February were; Hermeneutics one by Brother James Legend, and the New Testament Church by Brother Adjei. To God be glory, great things He has done; for all things are moving on perfectly.

8TH GRADUATION AND 9TH MATRICULATION CEREMONY

One of the wonderful events and experience in the month of February was the graduation of the 2023/2024 batch of students. The Lord’s vineyard needs lots of workers, and it’s always joyful to witness men prepared and ready to take up the duty of working for our Lord Jesus. It was a precious moment to see brethren pledged to work for our Master (preach the word) at all times and under any condition. This event took place on the 19th of February, 2025. It is our prayer that these men indeed remain faithful to our God, in all their endeavors at every given moment, especially in the service of laboring for our Lord, by working to help expand the Lord’s kingdom.

In all, 10 brothers were graduated successfully. There were series of awards to motivate those who did their best during their time in school, both academically and character as well. Brother Dickson Anonzah was the best student academic, whiles the overall best student award went to Brother Paul Mpakba. The most well behaved student award went to Fredrick Laar Mon, while Brother Joshua Fooki took the best most servants’ award.  It was a very simple and beautiful event.

The welcome or opening address was done by Brother Daniel Adjei Mensah. He recounted some of the events that predate the inception of the school. He also enumerated some of the great benefits the school has brought to Northern Ghana. The time, the money, suffering in time past one had to go through travelling to Southern Ghana to attend a Bible school, that Bear Valley Tamale came and saved countless number of people from. The benefits are immeasurable. Currently, across the breadth and length of Northern Ghana, about 90% of the preachers that are working effectively, are trained by Bear Valley Tamale Campus. We give God the glory.

Our beloved Brother, and Coordinator for Bear Valley Schools in West Africa and beyond, Brother Steven Ashcraft was also present at the event. He delivered the charge to the graduands. Brother Steven introduced his message by acknowledging the efforts of all the men that were present at the event and their importance and contributions towards the vision that was conceived several years ago which has now become a great reality. With many lively words, he did encourage and empowered all the gathering, especially preachers present and the graduates on the work of the Lord and our calling.

The ordination and matriculation ceremonies were done by Brother Kojo Acquah Beenyi, the coordinator of Bear Valley Schools in Ghana. Thomas Donzie was the guest speaker.

Students from the newly established weekend school in Jirapa in the Upper West Region were also present and were matriculated together with the Tamale students. We thank God for this wonderful program that gave us a lot of encouragement.

While Brother Steven and Kojo were there for a very short time, they managed to held series of meetings centered at encouraging the staff and addressing issues that could lead to the progress of the school.

The students also donated 8 plastic chairs to the school, to show their gratitude.

In addition, there was also another impactful activity that took place. Five new motor Bikes we purchased to aid working evangelists who are doing their best towards the lost souls. Glory is to God for the life of Brother Steven and all the able brethren who care for the souls in Africa and the world, and their desire and willingness to aid workers in God’s kingdom. Brethren who received these motor were; Albert Tamanja Malir, Samuel Lamoja, Jacob Awintoya, Waja Francis and Bambile Abraham. May the good Lord bless all those who made this possible.

WITHIN AND OUTSIDE WORK ON COMPOUND CONTINUES

We have made it a point to continue day in and out to be consistent in seeing to the effective upgrading of our school environment. The front view of our institute is very clean, and we have also erected a sign post outlining all the different things (programs or activities) being run by the school. It is our desire to work hard to make Bear Valley Tamale stand out from the crowd, both in physical appearance and in maintaining the true doctrine of Christ. We know with time, we will become one of the best, if not the best, in many things. May God help us through.  

IRRIGATION WORK

We now have some local vegetables to supplement the feeding efforts of our students on campus. We thank Healing hands and our sponsors for supporting us with water that we are able to raise vegetables at this time of the year in Tamale. Currently, water is one of the most scares commodities in Northern Ghana, especially, Tamale Township. Our neighbors continue to thank God for the water we extended outside freely for their consumption.

All the praises is to the Lord.

God bless you,

James.

Graduates become teachers in Cebu, Philippines

We had a great start this year 2025 as we continued our study on the Scriptures. This January, I taught our students the Life of Christ based on the account written by Matthew. We had a great time reading and studying this gospel account because it refreshes our mind to the things Jesus had done while He was on earth.

Also this quarter, two of our newly graduated students became our newest addition to our local instructors, Danilo Torniado 2024 class valedictorian taught in February while Nino Rey Felicano 2024 class salutatorian taught the class in March. Bro Danilo did a great job teaching the course Personal Evangelism. He had been a church minister for almost 20 years and his experience in conducting Bible Studies and he shared this experience to our students which would help them in their ministries. In March, brother Nino Rey Felicano taught from the book of Genesis. He also did a great job teaching this Old Testament historical book. This course is a great foundation for our students in understanding the whole Bible.

All Three Schools in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania Continue to Succeed

Hello Brethren,

Bear Valley Bible Institute Dar es Salaam is progressing well.

As we see this progressive move of all 3 schools at Dar es Salaam, we have another reason to praise the Lord our God every day.

You are doing real and pure work of God Dar es Salaam since 2019. 34 Graduates in three graduation ceremonies. In the moment, we have total of 39 students in our classes. We saw the Love of God through you Brethren. We still praying God to bless you, your family, and the work of God upon you everyday.

Temeke Saturday class has 12 students right now, Mbagala Saturday class has 13, and Monday class at Temeke is 14.

Still we have 4 Teachers work for this school, Justine Rwaha, Iddy Nyabusani, Essau Ruheta, and Leonard Kihwele. And they become very competent Teachers every day through this work, doing a very good job within and outside their classes, particularly church classes.

We had new class for Temeke class. The situation has now changed to a comfortable one; students are very happy now. God bless you for the support you give about it.

God bless you Ndugu

Ombeni

Extension Director

Dar es Salaam

BVBI Liberia Enjoys a Visit and Seminar from Steven and Karen Ashcraft

College View Community

Sanniquellie City, Nimba County

Republic Of Liberia

Operation Report For February 2025

We bring you greetings from the students and staff of Liberia- Bear Valley Bible Institute, hoping all is well with you and your families in the Lord's name.

Female Teachers Training Program For Children Sunday school

On January 30, 2025, a seminar aiming at training Female Children Sunday School teachers from forty Church Of Christ Congregations in Liberia was conducted in two areas;

1.     January 31 to February 1, 2025, Sanniquellie City, Nimba County at the Sanniquellie Central Church Of Christ, for sixty (60) participants from thirty (30) Congregations, two persons per Congregation.

2.     February 7-8, 2025 Monrovia, Paynesville City at the GSA Road Church of Christ for twenty (20) participants from ten (10) Congregations, two per Congregation.

The two day Training Program facilitated by Sis. Karen Ashcraft and her husband Bro. Steven Ashcraft was attended by sixty (60) Sisters from Lofa, Bong and Nimba Counties respectively, beginning from January 31, to February 1, 2025.

During the closing program, the participants expressed their thanks and appreciation to Sister Karen and Brother Steven Ashcraft for their tireless efforts in preparing people for the Kingdom of God in the world, Liberia to be precise.

Sister Karen and Brother Steven Ashcraft were honored by the Sanniquellie Central Church Of Christ On Sunday February 2, 2025 for their continued support towards the mission work in Liberia.

The Seminar activity was done during the close of the Program at the GSA Road Church of Christ in Monrovia with Bro. Alfred Beyan and the Church Leadership along with the Participants appreciating them for their good works in Africa as well.

Staff Meeting With Brother Steven Ashcraft

After the Training program, a staff meeting was convened by Bro. Steven Ashcraft to conduct an operation audit as part of his regular routine as Coordinator.  During the meeting, key administrative points were highlighted and the school digital Library was installed on that day.

CLASSROOM ACTIVITIES

The month of February 2025 is the continuation of our Year one last quarter studies in the Bear Valley Curriculum for this Fourth Batch of students, and the month has been very busy for everyone, both for the instructors and the students. Year one runs from January 22, 2024 to February 2, 2025. To conclude Year One of this batch, instructors continued their normal routine preparing the students towards the end of the final quarter of the first year. Among other things of the school, the following classroom activities are highlighted:

1.  Year One 4th quarter courses:

• Personal Evangelism II: Thomas Jimmy

• 1&2 Peter & Jude: Fester G. Lee

• 1&2 Thessalonians: T. Joel Weah

• Leadership: T. Joel Weah

• New Testament Worship: Fester G. Lee

• Galatians SC: Calvine Jusu

• Agriculture: Samuel B. K. Jabaty

• Computer Study: Augustine Quoigbay

• English – Literature: Joel Marcus Wehye

1.    Evaluations

a.      Group works

b.     Research work

c.      Individual Assignments and presentation

d.     Daily Quizzes (Practical and theory).

e.      Memory work

f.       Weekend House to House Evangelism

Thankfully, we have thirteen students to continue with in Year Two, Beginning February 3, 2025.

CONCLUSION:

Without your love for God and your constant support, we wouldn’t have come this far with the huge work we have here. Please accept our heartfelt gratitude for your spiritual and financial assistance. We are eternally grateful to each and every of you. To God be the glory, praise and honor belong to Him.

The Administration

Bear Valley Bible Institute - Liberia