JUNE 2024 NARRATIVE REPORT
Introduction
The Institute continued its mission, that is, to equip and empower future Christian leaders through academic excellence, spiritual formation, and practical ministry experience. This monthly report provides a summary of key activities and achievements during the month. Enjoy the highlights!
1. Student Progress
We are looking closely at the progress of the new students. Most of the students have demonstrated significant improvement in their preaching skills, biblical knowledge and spiritual growth. We ask for prayers for continued guidance for our students as they navigate complex Biblical and ministerial issues as they grow in their faith and preaching.
2. Guest Lecturer
We are delighted to share with you the impact of our recent guest lecturer, Lovemore Manyanhaire who taught on Personal Evangelism for a week. Lovemore is an experienced preacher with more than 15 years in the preaching ministry. He is a passionate and successful preacher with a proven record of teaching, church planting and growing churches.
The sessions were insightful, engaging, and inspiring, leaving a lasting impression on our students. He established a solid biblical foundation for personal evangelism, emphasizing the Great Commission and the importance of sharing the Gospel. The sessions offered practical guidance on how to engage in personal evangelism, including strategies for initiating conversations, building relationships, and sharing testimonies. The students were fully engaged throughout the sessions, participating in discussions, asking thoughtful questions, and sharing their experiences after practical field work. The teaching also contributed to the students' spiritual growth, deepening their understanding of God's Word and its application in everyday life.
3. Welcome Ceremony
Celebrating the arrival of new students, a welcome ceremony was organized that was attended by all students, faculty members, and the guest speaker. We hosted a renowned guest speaker Lovemore Manyanhaire, who shared his expertise and his insights on various aspects of preaching and ministry.
In his speech, he encouraged students to pursue their calling with passion and purpose. He also emphasized that the role of a preacher is not just to convey information but to inspire transformation, as he said “You are called to be the light in the darkness, the hope in the midst of despair, and the voice of truth in a world that desperately needs to hear it.” New students also appreciated the warm welcome and sense of community. A braai party with delicious food and refreshments helped students connect and relax.
4. Ministry Outreach
Our student preachers on attachment have been sharing the Gospel with passion and dedication, and we are thrilled to report that several individuals have responded to the message and been baptized. A total number of 12 souls were baptized in June.
These new believers are a testament to the power of God's Word and the impact of faithful witness. We celebrate this answered prayer and the fruit of our student preachers' labor. Please join us in rejoicing and praying for these new believers as they begin their journey with Christ. May God continue to guide and grow them in their faith.
5. Empowering Young Leaders
The school recently conducted a youth leadership-training program aimed at equipping young individuals with biblical principles, leadership skills, and fostering spiritual growth and character development. In attendance also were the National Youth Committee and their advisors.The program was held on the 1st of June at the school campus. Key highlights of the program include interactive sessions on leadership, communication, and teamwork; mentor-ship sessions with experienced leaders and group discussions. The youth leadership training program was a resounding success, empowering young leaders to make a positive impact in their churches and communities. We look forward to continuing this important work in the future.
6. Sustainable Agriculture Workshop in Prison
From the 18th to 19th of June, a sustainable agriculture workshop was held at Whawha prison. The prison houses around 1700 inmates. The training was done by brother John Dube of Healing Hands International as part and parcel of the school’s efforts to reach out to everyone.
The workshop came with several lessons ranging from compost making, use of drip system, preparation of beds, planting, disease control, and marketing of crops among many other notables.35 inmates and 15 officers were trained. BVBIZ students have an opportunity to visit the prison and encourage inmates as part and parcel of their training. Great appreciation to Healing Hands International for partnering the school in this endeavor.
7. Graduation Ceremony
On 29 June, the staff members had the privilege of attending the 59th graduation ceremony of 7 student preachers at Mutare School of Preaching. It was a momentous occasion, filled with joy and inspiration. The graduates demonstrated remarkable growth, passion, and dedication to their calling. We celebrate their achievement and the positive impact they will have on their communities and the world. May God continue to guide and bless them on their journey.
Conclusion
Bear Valley remains dedicated to its mission of training and equipping students to effectively proclaim the Gospel and serve in various ministry contexts. With the support of faculty, staff, students, and partners, the school continues to make a positive impact in the lives of individuals and communities. Thank you for your unwavering support, prayers, and encouragement. Your partnership is crucial to our mission.