Monthly Report – Bear Valley Bible Institute
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
As the summer break comes to an end, I would like to provide an update on the recent activities at the Bear Valley Bible Institute. Over the past three months, our students have been engaged in practical ministry work, gaining valuable experience and serving in various locations.
Practical Ministry Assignments:
- Maxim: He completed his practicum in Bila Tserkva, where he actively participated in church activities and outreach programs.
- Vadim: Vadim served in Poltava, where he made significant contributions to the local church. We believe there is a strong possibility that Vadim will continue his ministry in Poltava after graduation. Please keep Vadim and his family in your prayers as they prepare for this potential move. Vadim has one more year of study left, during which he will also be preparing for his new role in Poltava.
New Students:
We are pleased to announce that we have two new students who have already submitted their application documents. Additionally, a man named Konstantin from Kramatorsk has expressed his intention to join the program.
Upcoming Academic Year:
Classes for the new academic year will commence on September 2nd. The first course will be taught by Denton Lendon, with Konstantin Kiselenko serving as the translator. I would like to acknowledge Konstantin's long-standing contribution as our regular translator. His work is invaluable not only to the institute but also to the Church in Bila Tserkva. Please continue to pray for Konstantin and his health.
New Instructors:
This year, we have added several Ukrainian instructors to our teaching staff. We are working to involve two brothers currently pursuing their master’s degrees—Oleg Fofanov and Oleksandr Rotkevych—in the work of the Bible institute. Oleksandr, in particular, has been assisting me with the technical aspects of our educational process. He has developed a program that allows students easy access to information databases. Through this application, students can access books, notes, maps, and also submit their assignments. This innovation is a great asset to the institute.
Current Situation in Ukraine:
Unfortunately, the war in Ukraine continues, and we are losing ground at an alarming rate. The situation remains dire, with no clear end in sight. I am deeply grateful for your prayers, your patience, and your ongoing support for Ukraine. The Church of Christ in Ukraine is doing tremendous work in saving souls, thanks to the resources provided by our brothers in America. We are indebted to you, and your assistance is both invaluable and necessary.
Please also pray for the brothers who are serving in the Armed Forces of Ukraine. As the country has initiated widespread mobilization, more and more of our brothers are joining the ranks. Your prayers in this regard are greatly needed.
Future Involvement:
The schedule for this academic year is now available. If any of our American brothers are interested in participating in the educational process, please contact me. We are currently planning the schedule for the second semester, and there are opportunities for involvement.
Thank you all for your continued support. May God bless and protect you.
Sincerely,
Dennis Sopelnyk
Director, Bear Valley Bible Institute