Good News Is Contagious In Tanzania...

Greetings Fellow Workers;

What a week the Lord has blessed His Kingdom with! We hope and we pray all is well in your life of service. We pray your day in worship is all God would have it to be and that you and your fellow Christians are edified to the fullest.

Yesterday, 21 “preacher’s wives” came together at our home to learn more about life as a servant’s wife in the Lord’s Church and to encourage one another in the work of God. The ladies raved as to the lessons and overall experience. What impressed me, among other things, was the number of ladies present. The 21 represent some of the local congregations and show the growth of God’s work here in Tanzania.

Every week I am privileged to receive phone calls, sms messages, e-mails, letters in the mail, etc. from many of our graduates. Their reports are always encouraging and always challenging. Here is but a sampling of the Good News:

Eliay Samhenda; “We are now evangelizing and conducting Bible teaching from house to house in the area surrounding Bonga. Our aim is to get those who have ability to help others before our movement begins next year. Our goal is to establish new congregations at Galapo, Magugu and Dareda.” 

William Rodrick; “The Church is doing well, during this month the attendance was positive, having some people to whom we have given them Bible Correspondence Courses visited our worship services, the great joy is one soul obeyed the Gospel of Jesus and the Lord added him to His Church. Please pray for this new baby in Christ so that they may overcome all the trickery of the devil. His name is Baraka (blessing) Godson.

Charles Ogutu; “Just to let you know that in the past week we visited a town called Nyahururu in central Kenya and had three days of evangelism. Four souls obeyed the Gospel, glory to God.” 

Gasper Julius; “The work of God is expanding, the church has plans, if God wishes, next year for all those who are coming very far, we shall establish congregations again at their places. We will be able to do this because we have two brothers graduating from the Andrew Connally School of Preaching this November. If the Lord wills, we have three more brothers willing to join the new class in Feb. 2012.”

Cotton Box & Gene Davis; Our two brothers are now back home with their families. After spending close to three weeks here in Tanzania teaching and preaching the Gospel to the good people of Kioga and Ushirombo. Nine souls God would add to His Church through these brother’s efforts. We thank God for them and for all who come and join us in this grand evangelistic effort.

Anita Davidson; Our sister in Christ from the Bear Valley congregation in Denver, CO leaves tonight. We thank God for her and her efforts while here. We pray God blesses her with safe travels and a long life in His Service. 

Too many good things to report, too little space! We close by saying thank you all for your part in this work of God. May your week make a difference in the life of some lost soul.

In Him,
Cy, Stephanie and Granny

Third Annual Preachers' Wife Seminar In Arusha...

To Our Loyal Supporters, Family and All Interested in this Work: 

Yesterday, 21 women attended the 3rd Annual Preachers’ Wife Seminar hosted by Stephanie Stafford. The theme for this great day was “How the Preacher’s Wife Can Support Her Husband’s Ministry.” “Evangelism” was Trina’s assigned topic, while others spoke on Encouragement, Hospitality, Visiting members, Quiet Time with God and Having a Christ-like Spirit. Stephanie is also planning a Ladies’ Retreat for next April!

The abandoned baby girl (covered in scratches with a large bruise on her back), found in the ravine, was released from the hospital to the custody of the Cradle of Love Baby Home. She is doing fine. However, the family that found her is being accused by some of their relatives of selling the baby to us or the orphanage!

Abigail and Lindsey have both passed their I, II and III John class and Abigail also passed her Personal Evangelism class. In Abigail’s words: “I really enjoyed the challenge presented by the Personal Evangelism class to stick my foot out the door and do Bible studies. While I’ve always thought I was “evangelistic” I haven’t always been an “evangelist.” Commenting on the  I, II, and III John class, Lindsey states, “I enjoyed the emphasis on the necessity of our actions following our words.” She is now preparing to take the I and II Corinthians short course to be taught by Earl Edwards (due to arrive Friday). Please pray for his safe travel.

Today, we will say “Good-bye and Thank you” to guest Anita Davidson as she leaves for the states. Also, on Monday, Jimmy will travel to Nairobi for a routine medical check-up. Co-worker Elly Martin will be traveling with him.

My study with Jessica and Maureen was turned over to Paulina because Trina was at the clinic with Matthew. Sadly, Maureen had to return to her parents’ home before the study was completed and Jessica was out of town for several days. We plan to study this week.

At the ACSOP, Tanzanian instructor Charles Heberth begins teaching the Gospel of John Monday to the English class. Jimmy has been teaching this book on Sunday mornings so the students have a ‘head start” in the class!

Upcoming events include an ACSOP graduation, Future Preachers Training Camp and Tanzania Christian Camp (TCC). John Rice and Burt Fuller will arrive a week before TCC to travel with Jimmy to Dar es Salaam to discuss the possibility of conducting a Christian camp there in the future. Thank you for your continued support and prayers! 

In Christian Love,
The Jimmy Gee family

Work In Togo Is Influencing Many...

CBS PLANTS CHURCH OF CHRIST AT KUSUNTU
Yaovi is a recent graduate of CBS and resides in Kusuntu with his family. While in school, he was working with the Nyiveme congregation. Since it is our policy that no two preachers will work in one congregation, we decided to start this new congregation for Yaovi Amegadzi. The campaign started on the 27th October and ended on the 30th . Activities at the campaign included: house to house teaching, open air preaching each night from 6:30-9:00 pm.

20 NEW STUDENTS ENROLLED AT CBS
On September 12th, 2011, the Center for Biblical Studies started a new academic year with 20 new students. These men are from different church backgrounds and from different parts of the country. It was rather unfortunate that during the interview only seven men from the church met the criteria set by the committee and the rest came from denominational churches. However, two men from the church of Christ couldn’t make it when the school reopened. We also had two men from the “one cup” movement of the Church of Christ. These men have now accepted the teaching of the Church of Christ and have been subsequently baptized. Now, we have five members of the Church of Christ and fifteen from the denomination. It may interest you to know that three students are also contemplating baptizing. As part of the requirements of CBS, all the students are enrolled in the World Bible School.

We started each evening program with a film show on the life of Christ to draw the crowd and then preached to them. We had a crowd of about 100 each night while a lot more stayed home to listen. The campaign was climaxed with a worship service. Selorm taught the bible class and I delivered the sermon.

We were blessed with (3) three baptisms: two ladies and a man.

New congregation planted on Macarthy Hill
Macarthy Hill is one of the affluent communities in the city of Accra. One of our elders and his family reside in this community. Recently, the Nsawam Road Church of Christ organized a massive tract distribution and a church planting exercise. We in Ghana are grateful to Mission Printing for providing the tracts used in the exercise.

As a result of the tract distribution and open air preaching for three nights, a congregation of the Lord’s church now meets on the Macarthy Hill.

I grew up and started my schooling in Golokwati. The town has a small group of Christians meeting there. I had the opportunity to worship and preach the sermon during my recent visit home. I also felt very honored to name a new born baby.

The Golokwati church was also beareved in September. Congregations in the region were represented in their numbers to mourn with us. Ludwig Atsu was the oldest member in the congregation, and died at age 76.

Finally, on September 23rd, I completed my class room work with a final exam in Organization Development. Later a dinner climaxed the activities of the day. This course was jointly organized by the (UCC) University of Cape Coast and OCIC – Organization Capacity Improvement Consultancy. I am planning to share the knowledge and the skills I have acquired with leaders in the Lord’s Church by organizing seminars and workshops.

URGENT HELP NEEDED FOR 8 PREACHERS IN TOGO.
Five of the eight recent graduates of CBS came in from the denominational church where some were already preaching. They were converted through CBS in less than one year after they enrolled. They have given up denominationalism and as a result will not have anything to do with their former churches. They are now working in very small village churches that do not have the strength financially to support them.

These men you see in this picture have lost the allowance they were given while in school since the new students have to use it. They are confused, discouraged and don’t know what to do. The situation is affecting the morale of this men. I have encouraged them to stay on and pray. You can appreciate how I felt before these men in Kpalime. They find themselves in a limbo. They can’t go back to their former churches and they can find immediate support to live on and take care of their families. Yaovi’s wife is pregnant and can give birth at anytime. We can manage with $600.00 each month to take care of these men till something permanent can be arranged for them. Please come to our aid. It is my prayer the good Lord will touch someone’s heart in this matter. We are holding discussions to raise funds to start rearing animals for sale to earn some income that will be used to supplement what ever these men can raise. But, all these will take some time to materialize.

Contacts
GHANA
H. Willie Gley
P.O. Box An 19611 Accra-North, Ghana
Email:williegley@gmail.com
Cell: 011-233-244-509169 

USA
Blanco Church of Christ
P, O, Box 866
Blanco, TX, 78606
Tel: 830-833-4884

Click here to read about the work of the Center for Biblical Studies in Kpalime, Togo. This link includes the pictures from the PDF file on this report.

Please take a few minutes to read Willie's report.

The Anticipation Of Extension Training...

Can you believe it is already November. This time of year brings to mind many fond memories. I love the cooler temperatures and the promise of snow. In fact, we have already experienced two snowfalls in Denver. I realize there are several who do not like the snow, but I love it. It reminds me of purity, the cleansing power of God’s creation and the spiritual connection of being made white as snow.

I had the privilege of visiting the Golden Church of Christ in Golden, Colorado, Sunday evening. Hawatthia Jones, with the Theological Institute of Latin America (ITL) in Guatemala, spoke about the work. Bear Valley is blessed to be sharing in the work of ITL with Hawatthia and Byron Benitez. It was awesome to hear the full report from Hawatthia. The growth of the program in Guatemala is impressive. You can read more about the work of ITL and several other areas by clicking here.

This week’s report is fairly lengthy, so I will not belabor more introductions. I do want to say, it is incredible to see the growth of the work throughout the world. The sacrifices made by so many who work within the schools, the students who continue to do evangelistic outreach, campaign workers sharing the gospel, and all of you who make this work possible, becomes overwhelming just to think about.

I know how valuable the work is in training men to preach the gospel in their own countries to their own people. I am thankful to share in this opportunity. I am also thankful to each of you for the contribution you make in the fulfillment of the Lord’s will. Regardless of whether you contribute financially, in prayer, teaching, traveling, coordinating, directing, or anything else, please know it is appreciated greatly and it does not go unnoticed.

Now, on to the work...

Coordinator Updates
Reports from the coordinators are now located on the website, under Staff Reports. The address is /extension-schools/

Donnie Bates and Denton Landon are teaching in the Chimala Bible Institute this week. Read more about their trip in Donnie’s latest report.

Howell Ferguson’s report provides information about the valuable position of Ukraine for the work of the kingdom.

Extension Reports 

Growth, Growth And More Growth In Cameroon: The work throughout the Southwest Region of Cameroon grows each week. The influence of CBIW is changing lives.

Gospel Meeting In Chandigarh, India Brings Many: A gospel meeting in Chandigarh makes headway with many as a powerful number of people come together to hear the word. 

Another Soul Added In Ukraine: The work of the church, connected with the school in Gorlovka, Ukraine is making a difference.

Preaching, Short Courses, Baptisms & Restorations: The Chimala Bible Institute is nearing graduation, but the focus in training continues to bear fruit in many ways.

Outreach In India Reaches 10 Souls: The work of the Visakha Valley Bible College and Skinner’s Garden touches 10 souls in a gospel meeting effort near Visakhapatnam, India.

Four Special Days In Tanzania: A few good men who traveled to Tanzania, assisting in the work of evangelism, witnessed God blessing them with a great harvest. This is a great read.

The Sweet Sounds Of Arusha: The sweet sounds of words by those who are ready to leave denominationalism for the truth of God’s word make this a special report.  

Final Thoughts
Let me close with a note of anticipation. As I read each report, week after week, I keep wondering, will this ever get old or second hand? The answer is not a chance. The more I read, the more I anticipate what will be said next week.

The number of reports continues to be a blessing as they grow each week. I know they are a blessing and encouragement to each of you, as you take valuable time to learn about the way God is providentially working to bless the efforts of so many.

Thank you. I pray for you daily.

God bless
Bob

Four Special Days In Tanzania...

Greetings Fellow Workers;

What a week we have had in the Lord. Our hopes and our prayers are that you are well and that the Lord continues to bless you through His beloved Son, our Savior. For the eight days preceding this weekend, Elly Martin, Gene Davis, Cotton Box and myself, were on an evangelist journey to Ushirombo. To say the Lord blessed our efforts would be the understatement of the week.

We began our 1,200 mile round trip journey early Friday a week ago. On our way we stopped by and met our recent graduate, Eliya Danyali. He and many of the members met us to greet us and show us the land, the burnt bricks, and foundation stones they had collected to build a meeting house. What a joy it is to see the Lord’s Church grow. We asked Eliya if he lived near the building site and he replied; “no, I walk over that small mountain for an hour and a half to worship and conduct Bible classes. What a warrior!

We then made our way to Singida for the night, arriving at Ushirombo late Saturday afternoon. We were greeted by Yusuph and other brothers from the congregation. We worshipped the next day with a packed house (150 plus) of the Lords family, a great day! We began one-on-one Bible studies the next day, all day for the next four days. Yusuph and his family are doing a marvelous work, a shining example of the “fruit of the Andrew Connally School of Preaching.” A couple of stories stand out:

“Big John” is a retired equivalent of our CIA agency here in Tanzania. After Cotton and Gene completed their study, John said he wanted to obey the Gospel and wanted to be baptized the next morning. Unfortunately he was admitted to the hospital with Typhoid fever and was unable. Later in the day a man came to the building and told Yusuph that “John” had told him that he had received some “beloved teaching” and that he needed to find the church meeting house and study God’s Word. After studying with him, he said he wanted to be baptized into Christ, but he wanted his wife to be present. He left and later that night he called Yusuph and said; “my heart will not allow me to wait.” He came to the building and put Christ on in baptism.

Our new brother on his way home met a friend and told him the “Good News” and the next morning his friend found us and we studied with him as well. Friendship evangelism at its best!

On that Sunday we met a brother by the name of Simon. He, and a friend of his, road their bikes close to 40 miles one way to worship and for Simon’s friend, Solomon, to study the Bible. The study took place and Simon and our new brother Solomon rode their bikes back home (40 more miles) rejoicing as new brothers in Christ.

In total God added 5 new souls to the Kingdom during our four days of work. We thank God, we thank Yusuph and all who make this work a reality. God is good, He never disappoints.

To God be the glory, great things He continues to do. 

In Him,
Cy, Stephanie & Granny

The Sweet Sounds Of Arusha...

Dear Co-Workers, Family and Friends:

MUSIC TO MY EARS….“We don’t want to become members of the Lutheran church or the Pentecostal church (etc)…we just want to know what the Bible says” replied Jessica when asked why she (and niece, Maureen) wanted to study. Jessica (age 55+), previously a Muslim, converted to Christianity “because Islam brought about evil things and her Muslim husband wanted a second wife.” Worshipping with the Assembly of God (as has Maureen), Jessica has experienced challenges since her husband left. Maureen, age 17, has been staying with her aunt during a school break. Having studied for three days in a row, we set a time on Monday to learn about Jesus, the Church and Salvation. Trina needed to finish this study due to Maureen’s plans to return to her Muslim parents on Tuesday. She smiled and said, “I’m taking my Bible back home.”

NEW ARRIVAL…just about had you on that one, didn’t I? No, we’re not adopting again (nor “expecting”…my name is not SARAH) but we did welcome Anita Davidson on Tuesday! Anxious to learn about this work, she accompanied Trina on studies and a visit with Neema Loshea (a weak Christian), helped at the Monduli clinic and joined Stephanie Stafford on  studies in Kwa Mrombo. (Neema and her family were in Bible class and worship!)

“GOD KEEPS HIS PROMISES…” was the topic of Genesis 21 studied in the Ladies class. Before the lesson, Trina spoke concerning teachers and their great responsibility because other ladies have been and will be teaching. Her translator and excellent Bible student/teacher, Paulina, is scheduled to teach next Sunday. We plan to approach 5 women (with "teacher-potential") and ask them to be a part of a special class to help them prepare and present lessons.

RECENTLY MENTIONED were the Kilimanjaro and Arusha Bible Schools which have been responsible for much church growth in their areas. Announced today at the Kisongo congregation was the KISONGO BIBLE SCHOOL which is scheduled to begin January 2012! The men of Kisongo intend to have degreed teachers instructing the “person in the pew,” to assist in their growth and knowledge. The greatest part of this is the fact that the local brethren came up with the idea and will be doing all the planning. Yes, they have said they will seek our advice but this just shows the idea of handing the responsibility of this work to the Africans has taken one more step.

DEAF EARS was what Trina thought the child-training lessons had fallen upon. Although she has seen some improvement, the behavior of many children had her discouraged. The saying, “consistency, thou art a jewel” was stressed yesterday in our Child-Training Class. Thankfully, there were comments that SOME are understanding and applying the Biblical principles.

OUT OF THE MOUTH OF BABES… What would this report be without a comment from Elijah? Out of the blue, five-year-old “Mr. I Love Everybody,” said, “When I am grown, I will love my wife.” Then Trina said, “And she will love and be good to you when you love her.” To which he replied, “Because if they {husband and wife} are bad to each other, they are being bad to God.” Where does he come up with these little gems? Pray for the marriage seminar scheduled for next year plus all the above mentioned efforts. We love and appreciate all of you!  

In Christian Love,
Jimmy, Trina and Family

Growth, Growth And More Growth in Cameroon...

Dearest in Christ,

Greetings and love to you all who will be opportune to read through the lines of this report. It gladdens my heart always to share with you our report of activities so that you will know how the work here is going. On behalf of the staff, students of CBIW, members of the Wotutu congregation and you, we rejoice in the Lord for His matchless grace on the basis of which every achievement recorded here in CBIW and other locations of our effort in Cameroon could be interpreted.

Pa Njoh lived far away from our church hall, but could hear the gospel loud and clear through this PA system. He invited us to his house and asked numerous questions about his baseless denominational doctrines which were exposed to him by the power of the gospel BACK TO THE BIBLE. He asked “how can I be baptized again?” The Bible was there to encourage him. He was also involved in a secret cult that has been troubling him for years and he exposed to us the secret. We told him God is above all. In the mention of the name every knee will bow and all tongues will confess that Jesus is Lord. To that effect he brought out his magical rings and bongos from his wrist. We prayed, sang and burnt all those things. Jesus had set him free (Jn 8:36). Keep him in your prayers for the many persecution he is facing from his mates. Let them see the need to own up and Jesus will set them free. His family needs the gospel too.

The word of Jesus has been our ultimate standard in our every evangelistic effort. His rich mercy remains our point of reference each time we want to talk about what He is doing and what He will do in the work here in Cameroon.

The Lord has been with us always as we reached out to those who are yet to receive the Light of the gospel in their lives.

This week was very busy as the students of CBIW started writing their last long courses exams for this first year of their studies. How times flies. Sooner or later many more pulpits in Cameroon will be filled with ministers who are up to the task to teach and preach the baked gospel and remove congregations now who are suffering from total spiritual malnutrition.

Many thanks to God who made a way for us to have our PA system. This digital PA system makes our work easier to reach out to may. From our church hall, which also serves as our campus, we preached to the entire community and nearby communities. Early each morning from 5:30 to 6:00 am, Monday through Saturday, the village of Wotutu and other nearby communities, through this PA system, seem to be arrested by the power of the gospel conveyed through the disciple making program of BACK TO THE BIBLE, as it is called. It cuts across many hearts in their beds putting them into a new day with the saving message, please keep this program and our efforts in your prayers because it is the talk of the day now in our community. After the preaching my mobile phone number is given on the air for people to call if you have any doubt or need further study of the word. People have been calling and we have been meeting them in their home for questions and a Biblical response giving them.

Some CBIW students did a little gardening in a small portion of the land on our church plot. It is tomato season in Wotutu. This activity will help the students to eat tomatoes without buying, just for the fact that we don’t have a big plot for more cultivation. We are doing that to them as part of their vocational training to prepare them to be tent makers preachers when they leave school. We pray for more opportunities like other vocational work, like the use of a computer, electrical installations, computer maintenance, plumping, etc. which they go through before their last year elapses making them independent in their ministry. By so doing we shall be fulfilling the proverb that says; TEACH A MAN HOW TO CATCH FISH RATHER THAN GIVE HIM FISH.

I was able to preach this morning in the Wotutu congregation on the topic GOD CAN LOOSE YOU,  drawing inspiration from (Jn. 11:43-44). It was aimed at helping our Christians who are facing diverse spiritual and physical problems that only God can loose them from all the stagnations and manipulations of the evil one.That same message was going through the entire community through our digital PA system.

Join us and the host of angels in Heaven to praise God for the adding of sister Akat Bessem Schorlar, who heard the gospel in another village through our PA system, called me and we studied with her a few days. She called us and decided to be baptized and put on Christ. Please keep her in your prayers so that through her, many in her family will come to know Christ and follow His teaching. God is doing great things here. Keep praying. Your prayers are working well.

Another lady moved into our church area from another town, and God used us to get the gospel to her through the students on their weekend evangelism program and the PA system which is serving as a radio now in our community. She accepted the gospel and made her confession beside the river.

Clara Ateba Bana was baptized to put on Christ. Keep her in your prayers so that, through her, many will come to the knowledge of the truth. Her house is in the same compound with the students. We shall be there always to encourage her to walk worthy of her calling.

The sisters of the Wotutu congregation are praying and fasting over this vision. They are praying for God’s direction to help them establish an organization which will be centered on touching the lives of widows, orphans and the elderly in our community and beyond. They saw the need of adult education because many can’t read or write and by so doing if someone can read and write it will pave the gospel to enter the person easily. As we join together as a family to pray over this issue, we plead with you to join us in prayers also and share it with others who will love this type of humanitarian gesture to give us ideas on how to better go about it to the glory of God. We shall share more about this as the days are going by.

Our church hall is getting smaller to accommodate our children to study during Bible study on Sunday. The children this morning where outside under a plantain tree to study. During sunny days it will be difficult for them. They used to sit in my office and the library but now the population keeps increasing as many more children, some from a denominational background, love to come to our children’s class. Their parents will send them to come because of our program. That is an opportunity to reach to their parents. A small semi-permanent structure beside our main building will serve the purpose. 

PLANS
1) Our coordinator will come to CBIW this week, Thursday, the 10th, to teach a short course. Keep him in your prayers. He will come alongside the preacher of the Bear Valley church of Christ. We pray for their safe trip.

2) Our annual Bible lectureship in Cameroon is coming up from the 24th to the 27th of November. It will envelop all the churches of Christ in Cameroon. Our students will be part of it. It will really help them. I am invited to speak alongside another lecturer in CBIW. 

APPRECIATIONS
1) I am thankful to God for His care and watch over us. I thank Him for loving us and taking good care of us and you as our relationship as brothers in this big family keeps growing.

2) Many thanks to all four lecturers for their priceless sacrifice to face the challenges that we all face daily as we dismantle the strong holds of the evil one. My lecturers will come under the rains, sun and muddy roads to come and impact the knowledge of the truth to the students.

3) I also thank you from the bottom of my heart for allowing God to use you to make all this happen. Your prayers, great concern and priceless support is the pillar behind all this. Keep up the good work. Your labor will never go in vain. The one that wins souls is wise. Thanks for helping us think souls; planting and watering, and God keeps giving us wisdom to continue to steal from the strong man’s house. Evangelism is the key. Pray for us as we pray for you.

Do your best to share this report with others may be God is ready to use someone beside you to accomplish an issue in our ministry. 

Elangwe and family
By His grace, Director CBIW

Another Soul Added In Ukraine...

Hello dear brothers, families and churches.

I hope everything is well with you and you grow stronger in our Lord with every passing day.

In Ukraine the weather has started to change, and we can feel the approach of the winter.   

Yesterday, before going to bed, I wanted to see some news on the TV, so I was looking for the news channel. While switching between the channels, I found a TV show – “online store,” where one man was advertising the knives tried to cut, carve, saw, and even hammer the nails in with them. I can see that October passed in such a form for me.  It was full of events, positive and fruitful month. 

First of all, I want to thank all of American brothers who visited us and taught in our Institute (Howell Ferguson, Denton Landon, Jim Sherman, Steve and Tish Housley). It’s a great help for the Institute since we, Ukrainians, have a need in experienced ministers and their advices.  It’s also so wonderful that we were able to renew the Master’s program at BVBIU. This time we had a group of five students, and I hope several more students will join the program in spring. We are still in a great need of qualified preachers and teachers. The fact that we have some Ukrainian teachers in our school is the achievement of the past years. Yet we have to educate new ones; otherwise, we’ll face new difficulties. 

In the middle of October, BVBIU together with Church of Christ in Slavyansk organized a youth conference. The main topic was “Plastic Love.” We invited a speaker from Western Ukraine, Dmytriy Galuk. The lesson was conducted in a very interesting form, and the participants of this conferenced liked it. We are trying to use these meeting and fellowships to unite churches of Christ in Ukraine and to teach young people in sound doctrine. 

This Tuesday, in Central church of Christ in Gorlovka we celebrated the baptism of a young man, Vladimir who joined God’s church. We ask you to pray for him and his spiritual growth. He grew up in an orphanage and still is surrounded by teenagers “at-risk.”

This week we have started evangelizing campaigns. This year we divided our students in three groups, which will help local churches. Illovaysk, Gorlovka and Slavyansk are the cities where these students will be spreading God’s Word on the streets, among friends and acquaintances. Next week students we’ll have some vacation time, and the classes will resume on November 14. 

Thank you for your prayers for Kids Bible School “Odarenok” (“The Gifted Child”).  God has blessed us immensely by attendance of the children and their parents. The school is growing, and in just two month we have more than 15 kids in our school. I want to ask you to pray for the teenagers and young people in Ukraine.

We still need your prayers for finalizing the process or registration of the church building. In Ukraine, as in many other countries, the bureaucratic system is so complicated and any paperwork takes a long period of time to be done and completed, while local officials are trying to slow down the process. We are doing the best we can, yet there are some things we just can’t do.

Now we are starting to look for the new students who would join our program in the next school year. So last week, I’ve been to Church of Christ in Nikolayev and preached there. I have also plans to visit other local churches. We are looking for people who are ready to commit themselves to studying and later to teaching others.

Thank you for your prayers and support.  

My family is happy to be working with you, and our students are sending you their greetings and love. 

Your brother,
Dennis

Preaching, Short Courses, Baptisms & Restorations...

Our short course teachers, Denton Landon and Donnie Bates arrived in Dar es Salam after 30 hours of flight time exhausted but ready and eager to teach in both the Masters and Bachelors program at the Chimala Bible Institute. They were met by Boaz who had visited 6 different churches earlier on the weekend to recruit for the next school year. He talked with the preachers and spoke with many perspective students.

Frank and 7 students traveled to Mahango. Working together with the congregation there they had 5 baptisms and 4 restorations. This was on Thursday.  Remmy traveled with  7 more students on Friday to Mahango they reported they visited 4 houses and had 3 classes. The results were 2 baptisms and 1 restoration.  Joshua traveled to Mabadaga   with students and reported they had 4 baptisms and 1 restoration. Ezekiel  traveled to Mahango on Saturday with 6 students. They conducted 4 classes and held a marriage and youth seminar. Then much time was spent with a class for the small children. 

Yes, our teachers and students have been busy with evangelism on the weekends. But they reported other activities they were involved in besides their classes and studies in the Bible Institute. They said they enjoyed the food. Many said they enjoyed the American BVBID teachers during the short courses. One student said he enjoyed football and the preaching on the weekends. He is planning on working exclusively with young people in Blantyre when he is on break.

Another student said he enjoyed the “How we got the Bible” class and the sharing of his knowledge about the Bible in homes. Others said they enjoyed the fellowship of fellow students, another said he liked to read the books in the library and one young man said his preaching at Uturo was better because of his classes. One ambitious student said he liked running, exercising and taking his Bible up on the mountain to study. We are all proud of the hard work and dedication of our teachers and students of the Chimala Bible Institute. 

Garry L. Hill                                                                                                                                                   Coordinator BVBID

Gospel Meeting In Chandigarh, India Brings Many...

Dear brother,

Last week we spent most of the time out of the town. We spent a day in Jammu, where Benu's parents live (8-9 hours journey) and one day in Amritsar (again 4-5 hours). Being children's holidays we joined all. All the students also went to attend the gospel meeting at brother Mangal's place. A good crowd of about 125 people heard the gospel. I preached there. Students also visited the India-Pakistan border retreat and the world famous Sikh temple (Golden temple). We had thought to show them the science city in Punjab, but we were short of money and they came home.

Tomorrow (Nov. 2) we are going to have gospel meeting in Chandigarh. We have invited more than 100 people in Chandigarh. After the meeting we will have supper for them. Please pray with us that many people come to the truth with this effort.

We had thought to spend about $100-150, but to my surprise it will go up to $400 because of the increase in prices of everything. We thought to go ahead with what we had, even though the price is increased. After getting this view I believe this year's lectureship will become dearer to us by about $1000.

Please tell the brethren that we always give thank to God for their great love for the cause of Christ in India.

(Received November 3) It was a great day yesterday (Nov. 2). We have got new hope to revive the work. People who assembled, enjoyed the message and suggested me to continue this kind of meeting each month. The idea touched me. We have decided to use this building for our future monthly meetings. It was a great encouragement for us that people asked me that next time they will bring more people with them. This time around 60 people were there, but it was a good start for us after a very long time.

With arranging this kind of gospel meeting students also are energized to continue in work and always think to working for the Lord.

We had asked for this place earlier for the Sunday worship but they said already some people are having it for years. 

Please pray for us. We give thanks to God for you in our  daily prayers.

Earnest   

Outreach In India Reaches 10 Souls...

Greetings to you in Christ name. Hope all is well with you. I have been busy with the Youth Rally & Graduation Exercise at Skinner's Garden Bible School, which we had right after the Master and Short classes were over at Visakha Valley Bible College, from the 5th to the 7th. After this I had to spend time with my family because my wife needs me to take care of the third child. Right after this my older daughter was diagnosed with pneumonia, so I spent time taking her to the doctor every couple of days for different tests and checking. She is not yet recovered. She will be going to see the doctor today. Last week we had a campaign week (door knocking- tract distribution, holding personal Bible studies & Gospel meetings) in 5 different villages. As a result we witnessed 10 people baptized in this week. At Skinner's Garden we are having the power cut for 7 hours (working) each day. My computer lost its battery, because I need power to use my laptop. Finally, I found some time to wrap up the things that happened last month and report to you and the elders. Thank you for your patience.

I hope you had a good visit to Chandigarh do hope it is beneficial.  It would be wonderful if you can be here for the upcoming graduation of the first Master Class. 

Master Class
We had another excellent two weeks of Master Classes at Viskaha Valley Bible College. Brother Jerry has done teaching for two weeks with the Master Class students. Even though this is his first time to teach the Master class students, he never felt uncomfortable, rather he got to know the students very well and has done a fantastic job in finishing the classes. 

While the classes were going on, we had to spend some time talking about the school academic procedure. Jerry wanted to know how the scores are being kept and what kind of teaching procedure we are using and when does the certain semester or quarter end. It was really a good time for us to explain the plan for the 2 years and who is teaching what. I have shown our agenda for all the faculty meetings we held so far. In all the meetings we discuss where we are and how things are going. That will help us be on the same page as well as help us to finish teaching at the appropriate time. We have shown the grade sheets that show the grades of each student who attended certain classes.  

Short Courses
Brother Greg had a hard time adjusting to the warm weather even though he spent quite a few years. Due to his health conditions he had difficulty in adjusting with the warm weather. Besides this, the weather was terrible, also you know how that heat adds up much in a city like Visakhapatnam because this city largely populated with industries. 

I myself have enjoyed translating for Greg. We both felt comfortable working together. This has been a good time of learning. You know what, the translator is the first learner in the class room. I was blessed to translate for Greg. I enjoyed learning new ideas in studying the book of Acts. Brother Greg taught The Scheme of Redemption in the second week of his stay, using a power point presentation. Students have learned so much through this kind of teaching. Of course it took a little longer than we thought because the students wanted to take down all the slides in to their class notes. Since we do not have a screen to display from the projector we used our wall as the screen. Thank goodness brother Greg brought his own projector with him. It would be great if we have a projector for our school. I have gathered so much material from brother Greg which will be useful to teach certain subjects using power point. It needs a projector as well. We pray that our Lord provides.  I was gone for a day to visit with my wife who was expecting a child and admitted in the hospital. During that time, the Director of the school, Samuel Raju, filled in for me. I am thankful to him.  

Brother Greg enjoyed his stay at Visakhapatnam and enjoyed his students as well. He is interested in coming again to teach classes.   

Evangelism
They arrived on Saturday, unfortunately Greg lost his luggage. After a waiting for couple of days he had his baggage delivered safely. The following day, Sunday, we worshipped with the congregation that meets at the school. One of the graduates of the school is helping in preaching. After the preaching was over, when the invitation is offered, the preacher’s son came forward to accept Jesus as the Lord. 

While these classes are going on, over the weekend we travelled to Skinner’s Garden. On our way we stopped by Kakinada where Jerry and Paul stayed with brother Joshua Gootam. This was Greg’s first ever visit to Skinner’s Garden. On Sunday he preached at Bikkavolu. On our way home we stopped by Pydikonda Village to preach at a gospel meeting. One young man came forward to be baptized.   

Bibles
In evangelism, distributing Bibles is a great help for the local congregations. This helps the congregation to study the word and to examine the false doctrine. We know God’s word is two edged sword. We are thankful to brother Jerry & Paula Bates for providing money for buying the Bibles. They are indeed a greatly needed here. We received the Bibles that we placed the order for. I have reported in my previous e-mail that we placed the order for Bibles. We shall be using them among our students and graduates that are working in Visakhapatnam area. Right now there is a big scarcity for Telugu Bibles. That is why it is taking a long time to get the ordered Bibles. 

By the way, sister Connie Barden, who works with World Bible School, has done a favor after seeing our report on our website: /extension-news/tag/visakhapatnam, We thank you brother Bob for letting all the brethren know what is going on at the extension school. I do appreciate sister Connie Barden, who was instrumental in sending English Bibles to be distributed to the students that are going to school, also to those are need of English Bibles. It is amazing to see how God works wonderfully. In less than a month, from when I heard from her about her ordering Bibles, we received them. We are thankful to the brethren at ‘World Bibles for Christ’ for their charity.  

Future Program
We shall be going for a gospel campaign for two days on 18th and 19th of November. One of our graduates is working in a place called Baadam, Vijayanagaram District. On the 18th we shall have a preachers’ fellowship meeting in the morning and the rest of the day we do the door knocking campaign and night meeting. The next day we would continue doing door knocking. Our students and preachers working in this area are doing the Lord’s ministry in their capacity. This area really needs some trained young preachers who dedicate their life for His cause. The prevailing denominationalism in our part of India is a big threat for the truth that is being proclaimed. Instead of listening to what the word of God says, people are more inclined to personal views and testimonies. This is really driving the sound preachers crazy, so the door to door evangelism really makes a difference, because it gives an opportunity to sit with any interested person or family. Certainly our preachers need to be patient and have to teach in all meekness. We are looking forward for this great opportunity to spread the True word. Our new batch students are excited about this.  Kindly pray that the lost souls will receive Jesus as their Lord and Savior.  

Exams
Students have taken the quarter end exam in the last week. They have been given with respective class notes as well as printed material along with useful handouts for all the subjects we are teaching. We are blessed to have a copying machine, which is an effective tool in providing the class study material to all the students. 

Possible Visiting Instructors
A brother from Tennessee, who is working at Leoma Church of Christ, wants to come and teach a subject from the curriculum. His name is Willy Hamblin. He is a missionary to India as well, but never visited our school, neither Skinner’s Garden. What is the procedure to let him come and teach a short course? I know he is a good teacher and doctrinally sound. 

I recently heard about Brother Louis Rushmore from World Evangelism. I heard that he does an excellent job in teaching Bible Archeology & Geography. He visits India every year, visiting us for the second time as well. He usually visits in the month of October. If everything is alright using him, he can probably spend a week teaching a short course. He usually stays for a week at Skinner’s Garden.  

Prayer Request
Pray for our country’s economy situation. Due to a hike in fuel, cooking gas is hiking like anything. Believe it or not, in just this year there was hike on fuel prices 5 times. Relative effect is on vegetables, transportation, oils, milk and other grocery items. It is very difficult for a common to survive in this kind of situation. 

Gratitude
We are thankful to the brethren at Bear Valley especially to the elders who are overseeing the Bible School work. We do thank the brethren at Lake Houston Church of Christ for their charity with which we are producing preachers to strive for His in this country of lost millions. Indeed training young men of their own community certainly giving great results. We look forward to work together many more years to come.  

Convey our greetings to your family and to the brethren at Bear Valley and Lake Houston. Thank you very much for your patience. 

Samuel Raju & John Dean Muppidi
Visakha Valley Bible College
Church of Christ
Andhra Pradesh,  INDIA
Cell: 091 - 9989922844

One Awesome Day!

One Awesome Day! These three words are the best way I know to describe the events of Sunday at the Levy Church of Christ in North Little Rock. I really do not know how to express adequately my love and appreciation for this wonderful congregation of the Lord’s people. Over the past twenty years the relationship Sheryl and I have developed with this congregation has grown and every year our love for them grows deeper.

The Levy congregation is one of the most, if not the most involved congregation I know in mission work. Every year in October they host what is called “Harvest Sunday.” On this special day, the congregation comes together to worship God and take up a special contribution for their mission work. Each year the mission’s committee challenges the congregation with greater goals. Each year the congregation responds with the greatest expression of love and generosity I have ever seen. I do not know how to express the atmosphere of this day. The Lord’s people in this place understand the joy of giving to the Lord for the work of missions in ways beyond description.

The goal this year was set at $250,000. During the potluck, which followed our worship, Mark Vest, one of the mission’s committee members, announced to the group that the initial contribution for the morning was just over $257,000. More was expected to be committed later. Keep in mind, this figure was given after the congregation had already met the regular weekly budget.

The congregation at Levy has been a great friend and contributor to our work with the Bear Valley Bible Institute. I was privileged to speak during the Bible class hour about the work of the Bear Valley Bible Institute and the Extension program. I want to express my gratitude to the Levy shepherds, mission’s committee, and the congregation for the wonderful example set for all of us when it comes to demonstrating a great love for the Lord in seeing the gospel proclaimed around the world. I pray God will continue to bless you richly as you serve the cause of Christ.

Along with the overwhelming magnitude of this event, God also had plans for Sheryl and myself in visiting North Little Rock. My brother, and his wife, Jamie, live in North Little Rock as well. We always stay with them when we attend Harvest Sunday and this year was special. Jamie expressed her desire to be baptized into Christ. I told her I had been praying for this moment for 20 years. Saturday night she confessed her faith in Christ and put the Lord on in baptism. 

You could say it was an incredible trip and you would be right! Our God is the great and awesome God. I am thankful for the opportunity to be a small part of the Kingdom and to share in this wonderful work.

Coordinator Updates
Reports from the coordinators are now located on the website, under Staff Reports. The address is /extension-schools/

Donnie Bates and Denton Landon are teaching in the Chimala Bible Institute this week. Read more about their trip in Donnie’s latest report.

Extension Reports 

In The Midst Of Sorrow, Great Joy: With the death of one of the students in Cameroon, there is great joy in the growth of the work. God gives the increase.

The Established Church: Chann Lork explains the beginning of the church in Siem Reap and the growth it has experienced.

Cooperation Strengthens The Church in Uganda: The congregations working together will bring growth to the work in Uganda.

House To House: The staff and students of the Chimala Bible Institute are reaching out to the people of Tanzania one house at a time.

In The Ghetto: The description of a newborn child found by shepherd boys in a ravine reveals more about the challenges of the work in Arusha, Tanzania. 

Final Thoughts
After the last few days, I am not really sure how to express my final thoughts. I am writing while sitting on a plane, flying back to Denver to begin classes Monday morning. There is such a sense of peace and calm having shared in the events of the past 48 hours.

Again, I want to thank the congregation at Levy for the opportunity to be with them and share in the special occasion of Harvest Sunday. I want to encourage all of us to learn from their example and challenge the Lord’s people everywhere to think more about how to have a better focus on the importance of missions and how we can reach greater heights of involvement.

With this in mind, I want to simply say thank you to all of you who read the weekly report. I know you are interested in mission work, or you would not read this report. I also know that most, if not all, of you are helping in this effort in many ways. Thank you for your prayers, encouragement, investment of time, and financial help. Without you, we could not serve God in this way. 

You are a blessing to my life! 

God bless
Bob

In The Midst Of Sorrow, Great Joy...

Dearest in Christ,

Accept warm greetings from CBIW. The staff, students and members of the Wotutu congregation. We do hope you had a wonderful week and I know as I write now you are already in worship of our King. I wish you the best as God uses His servants in your congregation to speak out His word.

Ibe Nwachukwu was baptized by minister Abasiama, one of our lecturers, who was teaching on Tuesday. He was buried to live a new life in Christ. Abasiama baptized him with the students standing as witness to his confession of Jesus Christ.

The students in Wotutu had a wonderful service in Wotutu in my absence as I was out for a short mission trip with my family. It was a great move around with my wife and my 1 year and 7 month old son, I pray he develops interest as he grows up to have the mind to think souls, so that the thoughts will push him to go on robbing from the strong man’s house.

The week in CBIW went on well after the successful burial of our fallen brother. Things are taking shape again with sorrow in our hearts but we cannot sorrow as unbelievers. Thanks for all your prayers to us during the moment of trial.

Brother Tabe and wife visited CBIW. I invited them to come and be part of our chapel service. By so doing many in Cameroon came and saw what is going on here and to see how they can be of any help. I gave him the topic OVERCOMING THE CHALLENGES OF A 21^ST CENTURY PREACHER. He did well and it was really good for our students to know ahead of time what lies in the future.

God is so good after the sorrow for our fallen brother. God gave us a moment of happiness and smiles as another accepted the gospel from our morning preaching from the PA system. Minister DavidBallard sowed seeds into his life in June and we continued to water and now with the coming of our PA system he can listen to us more and more every day before he goes out for work. The preaching on Tuesday caught him after the son and wife had already accepted. He accepted and the Lord added him. Glory to our King. Keep him and the entire family who are all Christians now, except for their little children, that God should help them walk according to His calling. They are all from Nigeria.

Our early morning preaching through the PA system is serving as a small radio in Wotutu community because the whole village can hear us from our church hall and the waves are cutting across five different villages near to Wotutu.  Keep this work in your prayers because it is working well.

The students who went there stood for a family picture with smiles after days of sorrow. Keep us in your prayers.

PLANS
1) We are done with our long courses and our exams will kick off this week. See how times flies. Soon we shall send soldiers to fill pulpits and save souls. Oh we pray for that day to come. Please keep us in your prayers.

2) We also prepare to welcome the coordinator to come over and teach short courses. He is in our prayers for safe travel and other things.

3) Our plans to Batoke village are set and also plans for the annual Bible lectureship is set. Keep all this in your prayers.

Appreciations goes to God for using you to accomplish whatsoever we have accomplished in CBIW and other congregations this week. We touched a number of struggling congregations to nurture and empower. We love the work and we praise God for you who are making this work possible. God bless you and your entire family. Do your best to share this report with others who may love to come and be with us in this work.THE ONE THAT WINS SOULS IS WISE. By His grace I will share to you next week the expansion of the gospel here.

The evangelistic campaign in Bole Church of Christ, that ended today, was blessed as the Lord added four souls to His vine yard there.This is a serious follow up from the campaign. Two of our students went there last month to sow seeds and others went there to water and God with His mercy has given the increase. Rejoice with us as we join the host of Angels in Heaven.

God bless and watch over you all. 

Elangwe and family
By His grace director CBIW.

The Established Church...

The news letter 
The church and the background of the church in Siem Reap, Cambodia.

When was the church of Christ established in Siem Reap, Cambodia and who was the establisher?
After I (Kimchann Lork) graduated from the Bible school of Preaching in Phnom Penh in 2005, I moved to work in the Kompong Cham area for almost a year as an evangelist and also a translator and driver. While I worked there I also baptized some people and also got to know some people down there. Then I was very blessed that I got to know and have good contact with the brethren from Bear Valley, such as brother Ralph Williams, David Hamrick, Keith Kasarjian. Then on the 15^th of August 2006 I moved to work in Siem Reap which is about 300 kilometers away from Kompong Cham province.

How did the church of Christ get established in Siem Reap, Cambodia?
When I was working with a group at Kompong Cham I had contact with some people in Siem Reap and had a Bible study for a week with them. Through the mighty word of God three souls were added to the church before I moved to work in Siem Reap. When I first moved to Siem Reap, we had just two people who spent an hour to worship God, that’s me and a brother which already became a Christian earlier. He drove his bicycle for almost 20 kilometers distance to worship with me in the town after he knew that I moved to Siem Reap. After I went to preach and gathered the brethren who were already converted to worship, we had more and more people come to join what started from two people to worship God. Then the next three weeks there were six people came to join Bible class and worship God and the next three weeks the number doubled and within a month we got more people into Christ. On the 30^th of October 2006 I was very blessed to marry my wife (Sopha). She is a good helper to the word of God and my work as an evangelist too. The number kept growing until we had 40 members within a year.

What did I teach and preach about?
The Bible is the standard to teach and preach to the people. I was preaching and teaching the word of God to many people both in the villages and in the city. It’s kind of challenging with other denominations as they also tried to preach and teach to the people by having many materials such as food, money, and other materials that they can get many people to come to their church. While they were doing that, it did not bother me at all because “I know whom I have believed” (2 Timothy 1:12), and “the gospel is the power of salvation” (Romans 1:16), not any other materials than the Bible.

Siem Reap, Cambodia October 29, 2011
Evangelist: Kimchann Lork
Email: chann_cambodia@yahoo.com
Telephone: 85512 408 602

Cooperation Strengthens The Church In Uganda...

Dear brethren, 

We are doing fine here in Uganda. The school and the church are progressing on well. The churches in Busia and Bugiri, plus those in Namayingo, are doing fine here. Most of these churches are being served by our students and instructors. These churches have seen it necessary to start working together by supporting each other to solve their problems. They have started raising funds to buy land or build church buildings for themselves. They will be meeting after every two months to study the word of God and after that leave some funds to the hosting church. The hosting church will be keeping that money in her fund so that they can start looking for what they can do with the money, but it must be toward those two objectives. 

On 22nd October 2011, seven churches met at Sirere church of Christ in Busia District. In December they will be going to Genguluho church of Christ in Namayingo District. With this effort they can do something but still it will take time to get what they want as the cost of land and building material are very high. They need your prayers. 

On that day, myself and Margaret visited a new Bible School in Western Uganda which was being officially opened. We enjoyed the fellowship there, meeting with the Director and his staff plus the representatives of the supporting church from USA. Thank you brethren for your support. Without your support there would be nothing like the churches of Christ in these Districts. May the Lord bless you. 

Yours in Christ
Francis Wechesa

House To House...

At Chang’ombe students and teachers had five classes this weekend, according to Remmy. At Idunda where they have thirty-five members, brother Samuel Tambala preached. Samuel is one of our first year English students from Malawi. He also spoke in chapel this week about the response of the Ephesian elders when Paul was leaving them in Acts 20. He stressed we need to be preachers who people will be sad to see us go for our good works. Rashid Jonas, one of our fine Swahili students, reported at Luduga, along with his teacher Xavery, preached house to house to the backslidden Christians who had gone over to denominationalism. At Mabadaga, where twenty Christians meet, there were two restorations. Mr. Mgala, a denominational preacher, after a long study has promised to be baptized next week and then wants to come to the campus and study with the teachers about the Bible. 

In Hebrews class this week we finished up with a discussion of the “E”s of the book, Encouragement, Exhortation, Examination, Expectation and Exaltation. They are now taking their “take home” final getting ready for the two short courses. Brother Don Logsdon, our agriculture teacher, is finishing up his final class tomorrow on how our students can make a better living on their farms. All the students are getting certificates that finish this course.  

We are all excited about the last short course week of the quarter. Denton Landon and Donnie Bates are flying in this Friday to teach for two weeks. It is a thrill and spiritual feast for these dedicated Bear Valley Coordinators to come and share their teaching with the students. Please pray for our students as they finish their final classes of the year and then go home to share what they have learned with the churches in Tanzania and Malawi

Garry L. Hill:
Coordinator BVBID

In The Ghetto...

To Our Co-Workers: 

“PEOPLE DON’T YOU understand, a child needs a helping hand, or he’ll grow to be an angry young man some day. Take a look at you and me, are we too blind to see, or do we simply turn our heads and look the other way…and his mama cries…” These words, from the song “In the Ghetto,” have echoed in my head since hearing of an infant (along with the umbilical cord and placenta) that was found in the ravine near our house by shepherd boys this morning. The infant was alive and was taken to the hospital. Tanzanian babies are abandoned, dropped in outdoor toilets, hid in bushes, left at the hospital or with strangers. Many mothers are destitute, desperate and scared, not knowing that other options exist. There is the possibility that an orphanage affiliated with the Church will be started here in the next year or two. If this idea comes to pass, as the ONLY orphanage in Tanzania operated by the Lord’s church, can you envision the fruit from such an endeavor of love, caring for both the physical and spiritual needs of these children How the church will grow when these children are reared by Tanzanian Christian parents, schooled on campus by Christian teachers and daily immersed in the Word!

LAST SUNDAY, Jimmy taught and preached at Monduli and announced the upcoming Future Preachers Camp and Tanzania Christian Camp. Tomiko was baptized! Neema and Theresia, (studying with Lindsey several afternoons per week) are completing their TCC applications. Abigail continues to study with Jane and Grace, and Jimmy with Lembris, Rosemary, Isaiah and Usta.

THE MEN CONTINUED learning about THE GOSPEL OF JOHN from Jimmy. Richard Olwenyi, ASCOP student, preached on “The New Commandment of John 13:34." The ladies studied Genesis 20, “replacing fear with faith” and “honesty” while Philiness taught the children.

AT TIMES we have referred to the TZ 2000 Mission Work as “our” work. Certainly we are privileged to have a small part in it (working with the ACSOP and the Kisongo congregation). However, we did not begin it. Building upon the foundation laid by Andrew Connelly, Cy Stafford approached the Kensington Woods elders with a 20-year plan to evangelize East Africa, (Tanzania, in particular). Our report reveals only a small part of the work. Many facets contribute to the over-all spread of the Gospel here. In addition to the preaching school (ACSOP), two Bible schools (Moshi and Arusha) are aimed at educating the “person in the pew.” The TZ 2000 Mission Work belongs to ALL who have contributed in any way.

NEVER A DULL MOMENT. Sunday afternoon, we evacuated our house due to massive smoke coming from the microwave. Evidently, a lesson was needed on how long to warm bread. Two snakes, thankfully both outside, were found in a 24-hour period. Lastly, at lunch, Elijah reminded us of the “Weekly Table Manner”…“No shoulders on the table.”  

Have a Blessed Week!
The Jimmy Gee family

An Emotional Week In The Extension Program...

After being gone most of October, it is good to be home. I appreciate your prayers while I was traveling. The last part of my trip was in Atlanta, Georgia. I had the privilege of spending a few days at the Forest Park congregation. They were involved in their 41st Annual World Mission’s Forum. 

The congregation has been heavily focused in the work of the South Pacific, as well as, other places throughout the world. I heard several speakers talk about the work they are doing around the world, especially in the South Pacific. There is no way to describe it other than uplifting. It was so encouraging to listen to the way God is blessing those who are serving in His kingdom. I am thankful to have been given opportunity to share a part of Bear Valley’s work in training men to preach in Denver and in the Extension Program.

The second quarter of the school year begins today. I will be teaching two classes this quarter and I know it will fly by quickly. I seem to be exchanging one role for another as we all work to training men in preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ. I am convinced it is the greatest work on earth. I give thanks to God for the opportunity to share in this effort. 

The reports this week are emotional. The loss of a student in one location, the addition of several souls to Christ, the influence felt in the lives of thousands and the plans for growth in the future make this a report worth spending time to read.

Coordinator Updates
Reports from the coordinators are now located on the website, under Staff Reports. The address is /extension-schools/

Donnie Bates’ monthly report is now posted. Donnie shares news about his upcoming plans and the latest information about the work in Central America.

Extension Reports 

Sadness In The Death Of A Student In Cameroon: One of the students at the CBIW in Cameroon recently passed away after complications with diabetes. 

Plans For A Leaders Workshop: The development of leaders within the church in Ghana is part of the plans for the future.

Thousands Are Being Reached In India: The work of the North India Bible College in Chandigarh, India is influencing thousands of people from their efforts.

Flooding In Siem Reap: The recent flooding in Siem Reap has created major problems throughout the city and the work of the school.

Evangelistic Outreach In Chimala: The students at the Chimala Bible Institute are not only learning in the class room, but their outreach is producing fruit for the kingdom.

14 Responses In Arusha: The power of the gospel preached in Arusha is changing the lives of many as this report shares the recent response of 14 souls.

Evangelism Is A Family Ordeal In The Gee Family: Evangelizing the lost is not just a work of adult missionaries in Arusha, but the children of Jimmy and Trina Gee are also teaching others. 

Final Thoughts
While there is sadness in the work of the school in Cameroon, it is encouraging to know a good brother in Christ has gone to meet his reward. As he leaves this life to enter the next, the news in Cameroon shows another woman being added to the family of God. 

As well, the growth in all the other schools continues to demonstrate the greatness and power of the God we serve. It is so incredible to share in a work that is changing lives around the world. The reports express how God is working through His people to share the greatest message to those who have no hope and God is giving the increase.

Thank you for making this work possible. Your generosity continues to keep us going. I look forward to reporting about the work each week and with people throughout the country. There is much to do, but as the work unfolds it continues to show how important it is we train men to preach the gospel. Thank you!

God bless
Bob

Sadness In The Death Of A Student In Cameroon...

Dearest in Christ,

Accept our greetings on behalf of the staff, students and members of the church here in Wotutu. I thank you for your prayers on our travels this weekend. It was successful one as I just returned with some students on weekend evangelism.

All our programs during the week went on well, but with extra efforts on some other activities. My heart is really heavy as I write this mail.

Please keep us in your prayers for it is not easy with us now. One of our students, Ayaubo Alfred Udosen, pass on this 11 am our time where I was still on mission and the church in Wotutu was still on session. It is not easy with us. With all our struggles here and there for his health, but finally God called him home. He was suffering from diabetes. He was the lone foreign student from Nigeria, but was resident in Wotutu. Keep us in your prayers, and his old mother, who is not able to do anything again . His corpse is in the mortuary in the general hospital in Limbe where we rushed him on Thursday from the Baptist hospital where he was admitted for the past weeks.

Brother Muofo Bernard exhorted a sister who was ready for baptism beside the river.

Sister Sheila Nwachukwu, a Nigerian resident in Cameroon, lives in the same compound with the students. She has been worshipping with us for the past four months and finally believed the message this Saturday after our morning devotion with our PA system. On her bed she could listen to the truth and then asked many questions as usual from the students. This is the same family that minister David Ballard gave the husband a copy of his New Testament lecture notes. The son read through it and came for his baptism a few weeks ago. Today the wife is added to the glory of our King. Please keep her in your prayers because she is from a family where the brother is a general  overseer in a denomination in Nigeria. She is ready to expose the truth to the entire family.

She is ready for the task ahead to bring her entire family to Christ. Please help her in prayers. Let her walk according to the purpose of her calling.

I have been preaching in a struggling village congregation in Boa Bakundu. The congregation is located above 80 kilometers away from Wotutu.

The church of Christ in Boa Bakundu now has a permanent site. Keep them in your prayers. Students from CBIW used to go there to help the congregation.

The congregation is participating in worship this morning. They are still requesting our students to keep coming because it is changing and helping the growth and nurturing of the congregation. Keep us in your prayers.

Plans
We are set to attend the invitation of Muyuka church of Christ for the four days evangelism. Keep this work in your prayers.

Next month we shall equally travel to another invitation in Mbalangi church of Christ for the Annual Bible lectureship in Cameroon.

I am sorry that it is not easy with me as I mail you because the death of brother Ayaubo has caused stress to all here. Keep us in your prayers. I am here to comfort the other students, to bear it .

Do your best to share our reports as usual with others. God bless you and your entire family. We love you.

Elangwe and family
By His grace Director CBIW

Plans For A Leaders Workshop...

By the grace and mercies of the great King Christ Jesus, Tamale Institute of Biblical Studies is going on with planned activities. Unfolding events indicate that there is hope for the future.

The quarter observed a few, but very significant activities. Brother Kojo Acquah-Beenyah, Preacher at Cape Coast congregation, was in Tamale to teach Hermeneutics. It was really gracious to have him in Tamale. He involved himself in the house-to house evangelism and was very active. His activity closed the quarter the first of October.

Due to the late admissions of four of the students, it has been arranged that they attended a three week session to be taught the classes they missed. Students arrived on October 10th and are being taught the topics: - Life of Christ and Becoming A Faithful Christian.

There was also a plan to run a workshop for leaders of congregations at Bogu, Tijo and Jimile. This plan, which was to equip the leaders with the knowledge of effectively handle their congregations, could not come on as scheduled because the leaders were demanding extra funds for their stay.

Baah Joseph Okyere