Kisongo Field Day And More...

Dear Family, Friends and Supporters,

Dodge ball, wheelbarrow, piggy-back and leap-frog races, tug-of-war, ball-in-the-bucket game, shoe pile-up contest, obstacle course, wet-sponge fight and sunburns (for the white folks), refreshments, exhaustion and loads of fun and laughter all added up to our first annual Kisongo Field Day! Over 60 children, plus about 10 adults, joined in the fun with the wet-sponge fight being the favorite event. Our sincere thanks to the Fairhope Church of Christ for the candy, prizes, pencils and homemade cards that were placed  in “goody bags” for the children to take home. Personally, we really appreciated Lauren and our four older girls for all their help. Todd also “constructed” the obstacle course. Field Day was truly a joint effort! Please enjoy the pictures taken by Lauren Kelly and Abigail and Heather Gee. The congregation has been invited to the ACSOP this Friday to view all the Field Day pictures via projector and large screen.

This past week, Todd conducted 3 Bible studies and visited 3 people to encourage them to be faithful. Lauren accompanied Todd on some of his studies, conducted 2 other studies and visited 3 others. Both Todd and Lauren have more studies scheduled for this week.

This morning Todd preached on “Avoiding Spiritual Desolation,” Abigail and Lauren taught the children, Jimmy taught the men’s class and Trina taught the Ladies (continuing with Genesis). Lauren is scheduled to teach the Women for the second time on Thursday evening on Proverbs 16. We get to enjoy Todd and Lauren only 4 more days!

We think we failed to report last week that both Theresia and Grace participated in the week long Tanzania Christian Camp. Unfortunately, our new Christian sister, Theresia, didn’t come to services this morning because she had “too much work to do.” Lindsey is scheduled to study with her tomorrow. Abigail studied with Grace three times before camp and has another study set up for tomorrow.

Yesterday, we enjoyed a big meal of ham with potatoes and carrots, mashed potatoes, cheese, rice and broccoli casserole, rolls and Rice Krispy treats (all cooked by Abigail except the sweets). We opened some gifts and mainly just enjoyed being together. We hope your Christmas weekend has been a good memory for you. 

In Christ,
The Gee's

To view the report, complete with pictures, just click here.

An Amazing Work...

I never cease to be amazed at the various workings in the extension program. It constantly reminds me of the need to be humble and trust God to do far beyond all we ask or think. The growth of the work continues to be exciting, as you will see from the reports listed below.

Along with the good news in the development of the work, there are always challenges to maintaining the growth and development of the current program and the future. A friend of mind recently said; “if there were no problems, then you would probably not be growing.” All I could think about was “we must be really growing.” 

We are growing. Over the next 18 months there are wonderful possibilities for growth. A number of factors must be worked out and criteria met before we are able to see the fruit of our labors. However, God has and is opening several doors to great opportunities. I look forward to being able to share all the news as it develops.

Thank you for your time and effort into the development of training men to preach the gospel. No matter what level of involvement you have, know you are appreciated, loved and prayed for each day. Thank you!

Now on to those reports...

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

Extension Reports 

Numerical And Spiritual Growth In Cambodia: Chann Lork reports on the growth of the work in Cambodia among several congregations.

Staff Meets To Decide The Future: The staff at the Center for Biblical Studies in Togo recently met to work out details for the future growth of the work.

A New Congregation And Much More: Steven Ashcraft reports on the planting of a new congregation, along with much more in the work in Ghana and Togo.

2nd Annual Lectureship A Success: The report from Uganda emphasizes the success of a recent lectureship and outreach in the work.

A Glimpse Of The Whole Story: What began with the vision of 20 years in Tanzania has grown incredibly. Recent events feature God’s increase in the efforts of the ACSOP.

WWW In Arusha - You Need To Read To Know: The news in Arusha, Tanzania continues to show growth in several areas. This is one to read.

Final Thoughts
I realize it is the time of year many people are focused on the love of family, the excitement of giving, and the joys of friendship. I know there are some overseas who are separated from their families. Please know you are remembered. I also know of those who are not able to be home because of their efforts to make so much of our freedoms available. You are both remembered and appreciated.

Wherever you are and whatever you do this time of year, I hope you are able to be with those who are closest to you and share a time of great fellowship together. It all reminds me of the time we will one day be together forever in the fellowship of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. This is certainly our focus everyday each year.

May God bless you and yours. Happy Holidays!
Bob

2nd Annual Lectureship A Success...

Dear brethren,

Thank you for your prayers, We finished our second Annual Lectureship well. 25 churches were represented, and a total of 140 people attended. We began on the 15th and ended on 17th. The brethren enjoyed the fellowship. Today we worshiped at Nandwa church of Christ and brother Jacob Omollo preached about meekness. After worship we went to visit brother Eridadi Makokha who is sick. He had a stroke and for about six months he was just in bed at his home. The Nandwa church always sends brethren to take the Lord's Supper to him and worship with him. Pray for him, so that he may get money to go to the Hospital. God bless you all. 

Yours
Francis Wechesa

WWW In Arusha - You Need To Read To Know...

Dear Co-Workers,

WWW...not the World Wide Web but “What a Wonderful Week!” This past week was filled with daily Bible classes, discussion classes, singing classes, evening worship services, crafts, sports, meeting new friends, renewing old friendships, games, movie (“Ernest Goes to Camp”) and popcorn, lots of laughter, entertainment (guitar and singing and a short musical) and, best of all, SEVEN new souls won to Christ (4 young ladies and three young men)! The mother of one of the guys baptized was concerned about it, saying that he was baptized as a baby. Elly (Martin) now has a Bible study set up with her! Maybe the entire family will come to Christ. The third annual session of Tanzanian Christian Camp consisted of approximately 122 people (85 campers plus about 37 others who were counselors, cooks, translators and a few of their children). Many people benefited from this week themed “Closer to the Heart of God.”

The title of Mr. TCC was awarded to Anthony Mwakabanje. Happiness Elibariki was honored to be chosen as Miss TCC.

GROWTH is something that may be mentioned often, however, it is SO encouraging and uplifting to see the maturity of many of the youth from year to year. To see young men (who were nervous the year before when reading Scripture or leading a song) being more confident and knowledgeable when standing before others is a joy. One camper said he had been to TCC all three years and that next year would be his fourth (obviously, he is planning to return)! These campers will go back to their home congregations refreshed and renewed. The church in Tanzania is alive and well and the future looks bright! The entire TCC group from America and all the Tanzanians involved worked long, hard hours ( rising early and staying up late) to ensure a well-organized camp. To see everyone working in harmony and peaceful cooperation is such a blessing.

CONTINUING TO SERVE TODAY...John Rice taught the Men’s Bible class, Lauren Kelly taught the ladies, Kathryn Clark and Taylor Staggs taught the children, Burt Fuller preached and Todd Gee conducted the Lord’s Supper. With the exception of Todd and Lauren, the TCC group will fly out tonight to go back home and share with others about the work here. We are thrilled to have Todd and Lauren stay another two weeks! Besides conducting personal Bible studies, they will help us conduct a field day (games, etc) this Saturday for the children at Kisongo. We'll give you the details next week!

EIGHT IS GREAT! Our son, David, celebrated his birthday this month and wants to know when he will be old enough to attend TCC. We are thankful for the good health we enjoy and thankful for some recent rain. And most of all we are thankful for you, our supporters.

In Christ, The Gee's

If you would like to view the entire report with pictures, please click here

A Glimpse Of The Whole Story...

What A Week!

The “Tanzania 2000 mission effort” is a work of God sponsored by the Kensington Woods Church of Christ, located at Hattiesburg, Mississippi. But, that does not tell the whole story, not by a long shot.

2011 highlights the good that has been done, is being done and if the Lord wills, will continue into the next generation of “souls saving”. We began to dream of this effort, plan and execute the plan we could only imagine what God might do through each of you and us. 

This years “Tanzania Christian Camp” is but one of the gifts the Lord has blessed us with in our efforts to take the saving message of the Gospel to the good people of Tanzania. Through the vision of John Rice, Ben Thompson and Burt Fuller (and the many who have supported and joined them), God’s power is being manifested among the young and all those they influence for good.

Seven young souls were added to the Kingdom of God this week through this joyful effort. Thank you John, Ben, Burt and team for a job well done, to God’s glory and the saving of lost souls.

Elly was talking to me yesterday about a conversation he had with the mother of one of the campers who obeyed the Gospel this week. In talking with her she expressed a degree of confusion as to why her teenage son wanted to be baptized, because he was “sprinkled as a baby.” Elly said to the mother that this was a good question and the reason was really quite simple; “he studied from God’s Word and wanted to obey Him”. The mother said she wanted to know more about what God’s Word said, so, Elly has set a time to study with her. The Power of the Word when put into the hands and hearts of the pure at heart.

When you think about the good being done through the Andrew Connally School of Preaching (102 graduates so far), the Future Preacher’s Training Camp, the Tanzania Leadership Conference, the Safari for Souls effort, the many ladies, men and children seminars through out the year, and the list goes on and on, one can only imagine what God has in store for His Church in Tanzania in the years to come, if, we will simply allow Him to have his way and not stand in the way through small thinking and small faith! 

We thank God for all He has done, is doing and for what He has yet to do. We thank each of you for your part in this grand mission effort. We thank everyone, those who have helped, who are helping and for those God has yet to send our way. We know this much, we are indeed a most blessed people to be a part of God’s eternal purpose. May we count our many blessings and may we serve God almighty with all our hearts, minds and souls! Why, that we might receive the promise of eternal life with Him in Heaven and that others might join us on this journey of life, leading to a life with God for every!

We wish everyone a very Happy Holiday Season!

In Him, Cy, Stephanie & Granny

A New Congregation And Much More...

Greetings to all of our brethren in the USA and throughout the world who are anxiously awaiting the return of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The work is continuing in West Africa as leaders are trained, congregations are planted, and the gospel is proclaimed far and wide. Our Lord’s Great Commission is our priority as we move forward with the work on this side of the world. We pray that our Lord is continuing to bless all of you as we faithfully attempt to achieve His will. During this reporting period, two new congregations were established in Togo, a new class began at the Bible schools in Takoradi and Kpalime, and classes continued with the new students at the school in Tamale. Steven returned to the USA during the month of October and has been traveling around the country to report to the various congregations who are helping to make this work possible. We are excited about the opportunities that our Lord is making available to us, and our ability to take advantage of these open doors because of the financial support provided by those involved in this work. May our Lord continue to bless you bountifully as we move towards that heavenly home that He is preparing for those who faithfully follow Him!

The Birth of a New Congregation
It is always a joy to tell you about those new souls who are baptized into Christ. It is even more of a joy, when those conversions take place in a city in the world where the restoration movement has not yet reached. Such was the case in Dapaong during September of 2011. The city which has a population of around 30,000 people is located in extreme northern Togo close to the Burkina Faso border. A large portion of the population is animist, and therefore practices the traditional religion of their ancestors. They worship idols and their ancestors as they believe the souls of humans, plants and animals continue to reside with them after they die. Islam and Catholicism are also strong in the area. A native Togolese preacher named Fidele Bedjelsi was moved to Dapaong with his wife and three children to evangelize, and train any new Christians that obey the gospel. Fidele is a graduate of the French language preaching school located in Cotonou Benin that is directed by a Ghanaian, George Akpabli. It is wonderful how God is working through so many faithful men throughout West Africa to facilitate the expansion of His Kingdom here.

A group of southern Togolese preachers (who are also graduates of the Benin preaching school), three Ghanaian preachers, and myself traveled to the city of Dapoang to help Fidele plant the church there. We held meetings every evening and showed films about Christ and traditional African religion along with public preaching on Biblical topics. During the day, we went house to house and business to business studying the Word of God with all those who would listen. During the week long campaign, we had five new souls who were baptized into Christ and many other studies that were set up. We found a school building for the new congregation to use as a worship site, and the congregation held their first worship service there in September. We pray that Fidele and the congregation will continue to grow in maturity and in numbers as they labor towards evangelizing the neighboring villages. Please keep Fidele, his family, and the congregation in Dapaong in your prayers!!

CBS in Togo
On September 12, 2011 a new class of twenty students began at the Center for Biblical Studies located in Kpalime Togo. A new building has been rented to help accommodate this large class of students. We had our second graduation in Kpalime of eight students in June of this year. CBS helped one of these recent graduates, Yaovi, plant a new congregation in his home village of Kusuntu during the month of October. The campaign included house to house evangelism, film shows, and public preaching. Three souls were baptized into Christ as a result of these efforts. The school in Kpalime is not only training members of the church to be more effective preachers, teachers, and leaders, but it is also being used as an evangelistic tool. Many of the students are denominational leaders who have a desire to learn more about God’s word. During their time at the school it is expected that they will learn the truth about salvation and the church and become obedient to our Lord’s gospel. Our prayers are with all those working to expand the Kingdom in Kpalime.

Takoradi in Ghana
A new class began at the preaching school outside of Takoradi during September with six news students. Two more men are anticipated to begin during the next quarter. This will bring the total number of students at the West Coast School of Preaching to fourteen students. There are many current needs at the school to ensure that the facilities continue to fulfill their purpose. The road to the school has been washed out due to the rains, and the roofs for the administration building and dormitory are in need of repairs. We pray that our Lord provides what is necessary to continue to train preachers here!

Tamale in Ghana
The school in Tamale resumed classes during the month of September with their second term. Fifteen students were present to study the Life of Christ, the Scheme of Redemption, and the books of the Law in the Old Testament. Kojo Acquah Beenyi from Cape Coast in southern Ghana came to Tamale for a week during the term to teach our students Hermeneutics. Since three of the students were late additions to the class, they were kept over after the end of the term for three weeks to help them get caught up with the rest of the class. The work is progressing in northern Ghana!

Bear Valley Bible Institute Website
I would like to remind you that more frequent reports for the schools of preaching where I am working are now being posted to the Bear Valley website. You can see these reports at this web address:

/why-extension- schools/

If you go to this web address, you will find links on the right side of the page for the schools in Tamale, Takoradi, and Togo in West Africa. You will also find specific links for each school on the left side of the page along with a link for my previous reports.

Financial Support

We want to thank all of the supporters for their contributions to this exciting work in West Africa. Without you, this effort would not be possible.

All checks need to be made out to: Mountain Home church of Christ

For: West Africa Mission

And mailed to:

Mountain Home church of Christ 380 North College Street Mountain Home, AR 72653

Any questions can be directed to the church office at 870-425-4330.

Or you can contact Steven Ashcraft at:

Email: samtnhome@yahoo.com U.S. Cell Phone: 971-270-8535 U.S. Message Phone: 870-425-4330 Ghana Cell Phone: 233-24-614-6022

Please email Steven if you would like to receive this newsletter with photos by email.

Thanks So Much, With Christian Love
Steven Ashcraft

If you would like to see the full report with pictures, click here.

Staff Meets To Decide The Future...

Staff meeting
During my recent visit, a meeting was organized to discuss some pertinent issues that concern the welfare of students, staff, preachers and churches in the area. The main item on the agenda was the budget CBS is operating with.

Decisions taken at the meeting
1) Evangelism will be conducted quarterly next year.

2) Open an account for CBS at Ecobank in Kpalime.

3) Write a proposal for fund raising to start animal rearing project as a source of income for CBS and the church.

4) Intensify French WBS activities.

5) Meet with the evangelism committee in Lome to discuss the future of the new preachers. 

6) We have formed a disciplinary committee for CBS.

7) We have decided to constitute a board for CBS.

8) Administration committee has been set up.

End of year program
At the meeting, we all agreed to conduct a joint service on the 31st of December 2011. As a tradition, all the congregations in the Kpalime area converge at the Nyiveme Church of Christ to bring the old year to a close and usher in a New one. The service will start about 9:00 pm and end at 12:30 am January 2012. This year we plan to conduct the Sunday worship service followed by breakfast meal. We shall close finally at about 1:30, leave for our various homes not to return for the usual morning service at 9:00 am. We are expecting members from ten congregations and several visitors from the community.

Willie Gley

Numerical And Spiritual Growth In Cambodia...

Dear brethren

These are some informations concerning to the work in Siem Reap, Cambodia

1. Now we have three congregations meeting around Siem Reap, and another one down to Svay Rieng province next to the border of Vietnam.

2. We have tried to established at least five more places, but it failed. We are still continue to work on that with those places.

3. We had 6 people who have been restored and we are all happy for that.

4. We plan to grow more congregations in mind for now and we will know more after we have a leader meeting next month to discuss for a better plan and a better success for the work of our Lord.

5. The church at the border of Vietnam, they have 9 members now who meeting every Sunday and along with about 13 other people.

6. We are now separated our students into two classes (as one is for the first year students and another one is for our second year students). They are not just spending their time to study in school but they also have some evangelism not just at the weekend but at the other days as well.

7. The church keeps growing, not just numbers but spiritually as well. This month our subject to teach and preach is to deal with (IN ORDER FOR THE CHURCH TO GROW...WHAT DO WE NEED TO DO?)

All in all things are doing ok now. 

Love in Christ
Chann

The Nature Of Extension Training...

2011 is approaching an end. It is amazing how we are a few weeks away from beginning a new year in the Extension Training Program. As I have reported in previous weeks, I am excited about the possibilities for the year before us. The potential for new schools, implementing changes to help the program, and making necessary adjustments to operate more efficiently make the new year something to anticipate.

The year ahead will bring the same needs we have expressed in the past. There are great financial needs with several of the schools. The economy has created difficulties for everyone. This is especially true when it comes to the Lord’s people. The impact is effecting several of the schools around the world.

However, we have a Great God who owns it all. If the need is there, our God will provide, somehow, someway. There are ongoing monthly and one time needs for support. We have several schools that could increase the number of students they are training, if there was more financial assistance available. Please consider how you could take on supporting one of these men, or several of them.

There will continue to be needs within the staff, specifically more staff. As the program grows throughout the year ahead we are going to need men who are willing to fill various positions. Again, the challenge is the financial support for each individual. If you would like to know more about how you can help or serve, please send me an e-mail bturner@bvbid.org.

The reports this week continue to emphasize the wonderful nature of the work in training men to preach the gospel in their own country.

Now on to those reports...

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

Josh Austin and Neal Pollard recently returned from teaching in Cameroon. Josh’s report can be read here.

Donnie Bates recently sent his monthly report about his work at the extension school in Chimala and upcoming plans in Honduras. Read more about his recent work here. 

Extension Reports 

Churches Working In Cambodia: The work of the church in Siem Reap, Takam Village, and Leang Dai assist in the progress of the Lord’s kingdom in Cambodia.

Plans In Uganda, Workers In Congo: Francis Wachesa reports on the work in Uganda and share news from graduates who are working in Congo.

New Class In Nepal: The first class of students has completed their studies and a new class is beginning. There are some interesting similarities as they begin the journey.

One Very Special Day In Arusha: Please read this report from Cy Stafford. The power of God working on the hearts of good brethren to bring unity is awesome.

Nakutakia Heri: If you need a little brushing up on your Swahili, this is a great report to read. You have to read to the end to learn the translation. 

Final Thoughts
Let me end with a final note of thanks. If you have read this far in the report, it is probably because you continue to see the benefit of the work of Extension Training. Thank you. It is also possible you are involved in supporting this work in some way. Thank you. It may also be that you are praying diligently for this work. Thank you. You may be actively involved in working with a school; teaching, directing, or coordinating. Thank you.

Your efforts are needed, beneficial to the kingdom, appreciated, and they do not go unnoticed. I pray for you daily.

God bless
Bob

A Week Of Work In Cameroon...

Josh Austin and Neal Pollard recently returned from teaching in Cameroon. Josh's report is below.

The first week in Cameroon was a busy one.  I arrived safely in Wotutu at 11pm.  to the cheerful greetings of all the students.  They had been in fervent prayer for the safe journey.  Friday and Saturday was full from 5 am to 9:30 pm.  First, let me give you the daily schedule.  Speak at 5-5:30 am devotional to the students.  Speak at 5:30-6 am on the loud speaker to Wotutu and 4 other villages.  Teach class from 8-11am.  Speak at 11-11:30 am chapel to the students.  Lunch break.  Teach class from 12:30-3:30 pm.  Afternoon break.  Speak at 9-9:30 pm devotional to the students.  This is what Neal Pollard (preacher at Bear Valley) and I did for our stay at CBIW.  Neal had one week with this schedule and I had one week with this schedule.  The students have two more devotionals on top of what has been mentioned.  

Sunday we traveled about 3 or 4 hours away to worship with a congregation that one of the CBIW instructors preaches at.  I taught class with a translator to about 65 people in attendance.  Elangwe delivered the sermon.  On our way back to Wotutu we visited in three other villages with some brethren there.  As we traveled through the lush countryside, Elangwe was sharing with me the villages that did and did not have a congregation.  Several congregations are dying and in desperate need of a minister.  

You cannot help but see the impact that CBIW is already having on the brethren throughout Cameroon.  There is excitement, there is vision and there is sacrifice and that is why there is fruit.  There is no doubt of the responsibility of “training men to train others” is deeply ingrained in the staff and students alike.  They truly feel entrusted with a treasure, commissioned to take it to the world.  They value their education and training and express an indebtedness to share it.  Their work ethic and dedication is humbling to be around.  

I taught the book of Galatians the first week and Neal taught Leadership the second week.  It was such a blessing to have Neal come and teach the students on this subject.  He is a fantastic teacher and communicator and the students had rave reviews.  I am thankful Neal could come on the trip, as I learned a lot from him as well.

While Neal taught the second week, I was able to meet with the three other instructors for CBIW.  We discussed the past years positives and negatives and future opportunities.  We discussed more of the Bear Valley philosophies of training men, we discussed some future goals and we discussed their personal lives.  It was good to get to know these men better.  CBIW is truly blessed to have such a talented staff.

Josh Austin

One Very Special Day In Arusha...

Greetings Fellow Workers:

We are thankful to be able to call you friends and fellow workers in the Kingdom of God. Our lives are made possible by the grace of God and through your prayers, love and support. We are humbled by all you do for the work here in Tanzania and we thank our God for each of you.

Today was one of those special days in the Church that we long for and we pray for. We were so blessed by the preaching of Patrick Kambarage. Patrick has been to each Future Preacher’s Training Camp for the past five years. He has grown into a very able young man. He has grown into such an able young man, a man with a desire to please God in all his ways. His mother, Agnes, told Stephanie this week that Patrick was number one in his class, again. He is taking Accounting at a University here in the Arusha area. To see the growth of this young generation brings joy and hope to ones souls for the Lord’s Church and work here in Tanzania.

After worship, one of our brothers stood before the congregation announcing that he and another brother had reconciled a long standing dispute between themselves. This conflict has caused much division and has been a real problem in the Arusha congregation for several months. They both repented of wrong doing and made it clear things were settled between themselves. The whole church rejoiced over this reconciliation of two brothers.

As good as this was, it got even better. Another brother stood before the church family and related the story of when he served as the church treasurer. At the end of the year there was a shortage of 400,000/- (about $250 or two months salary). He had promised to repay this by September, but was unable. He repented and handed the new treasurer the 400,000/-. Again, the congregation rejoiced over this one brother who “came back” to the Lord.

I have often said; “people are the same from the beginning of time and all over the world.” What struck me today was the willingness of these three brothers to repent, stand before their church family confessing their short comings, asking for forgiveness and prayers. One sister sent a note forward and expressed her thanksgiving and ask that a song be sung. Another brother stood up and thanked these men for their courage and example they set before God and His family.

May our week be a blessed week. May our week be one that is in harmony with God, His will and with His Truth. Our hope and our prayer is that each of us would have hearts that are willing to repent, hands that are willing to serve and tongues used only for the “building up” of others. To God we say thank You. Thank you for loving us enough to provide us a way of escape and for the promise of a better home in Heaven with Him one day. 

In Him, 
Cy, Stephanie & Granny

Nakutakia Heri...

Dear Supporters, Family and Friends:

“This is the day which the Lord hath made. We will rejoice in be glad in it.” (Psa.118:24) Today there is an extra special reason to be joyful because our oldest son, Todd, and his girlfriend, Lauren Michelle Kelly, arrived safely last Friday. Coming from the airport with our visitors in tow, Jimmy began driving up our long, winding driveway before we had finished tying all the yellow ribbons to the trees. INSTEAD of slowing down (to give us time to run UP THE HILL in the dark, grab the posters and get in line with the children) he continued at full speed (Todd said it was similar to the time Jimmy chased a herd of giraffes in the National Park...unfortunately Trina wasn’t running as gracefully as those majestic animals). This was Lauren’s first time to meet Trina...thank you, Jimmy; it did make for an interesting memory! Lauren, (daughter of Chris and Brenda Kelly) is from Fairhope, AL. Lauren’s mom (formerly Brenda Gill) and Trina were friends at Faulkner University in the mid eighties.

Lauren and Todd will work with Tanzanian Christian Camp (TCC) to be held at the ACSOP. We are thankful that the rest of the TCC group (John Rice, Burt Fuller, Ben Thompson, Josh Smith, Hope Walker, Kathryn Clark and Taylor Staggs ...all from the great state of ALABAMA) also arrived safely. At Kisongo, Jimmy taught the men’s Bible class, Trina taught the ladies, Hope and Lauren taught the children, Ben did a great job of preaching, Josh conducted the Lord’s Supper and Todd led several English songs.

The 3rd Annual Future Preacher Training Camp (FPTC) is now history. Twenty-seven young men attended and heard many great lessons and learned / practiced the basics of sermon preparation, song leading, prayer and public speaking. One very interesting fact is that the camper (Jackson Makundi) who received the highest award was taught the Gospel by another young man (Patrick Innocent) who first attended this camp when he was eight years old! Patrick was taught by his father (Innocent Mafayo , ACSOP graduate, preacher at Monduli and office manager at Tanzania Christian Clinic).

Innocent was taught many years ago by our directors’ wife, Stephanie Stafford (sowing the seed, Mark 4: 26, 27). It’s amazing the good that comes from ONE Bible study...ripples in the pond. Camps such as this one and TCC change lives, change family trees and change the future for good... because the Word is taught!

Concerning the trip to Dar es Salaam, representatives of four congregations met with Jimmy, John Rice, Burt Fuller and Elly Martin to discuss the possibility of beginning a Christian camp there. Pray these congregations will want to begin a good work such as this. John Rice is the founder of Backwoods Christian Camp (Lineville, AL) and Burt Fuller is the administrator of Indian Creek Youth Camp (Jasper, AL). Due to her translator (an employee of ACSOP) working with the Future Preachers’ Camp, Lindsey did not study with Theresia or Jackie this week. However, both girls are planning to attend TCC (begins Monday) and will receive a “whole heap” of Bible teaching EVERY DAY. Grace (with whom Abigail has studied) is also planning to attend. Theresia attended worship services both last Sunday and today! Consequently, the Pentecostal preacher where she formerly attended, announced to his congregation, “I have heard there are people coming to your houses wanting to study the Bible. Tell them YOUR PASTOR teaches you the Bible.” He must think that Lindsey is a real threat because he personally paid a visit to Theresia, telling her that “we” were “free masons” (maybe there is another group here of that persuasion).

A special thanks to JW and Jackie Gee and Hope Walker (Searcy, Arkansas) for the goodies and to Dale Baker for his assistance / advice concerning our report. To Trina’s OLDER sister, Denita Smith, we wish a belated “Happy Birthday” (she turned 50 but looks 35!) .We can announce her age because we live 10,000 miles away! Ha/ha Thanks to all of you, for your continued support and prayers so that this work will continue to be successful and so that God will be glorified!

Nakutakia heri (I wish you all good things),

Jimmy, Trina, Lindsey, Abigail, Heather, Candace, Stuart, David, Naomi, Elijah, Matthew and, temporarily....Todd and Lauren!

To view the report with pictures, please visit this link.

New Class In Nepal...

Dear Brothers in Christ's Kingdom:

Greetings from Kathmandu. Our first class of students graduated in mid-September and I wanted to share in that experience. The progress I saw in those six graduates in September 2011 was something I could not imagine in January 2010. They are now all working in their home congregations [12,000 foot mountains, high hills, and east Nepal].  

Our second class of eight students began last month. Their confusion at the time reminds me of January / February 2010. It warms my heart to know that they also will make progress that has never been known in Nepal until this school opened. In January 2010 my work load increased and my frustration decreased. The Lord's kingdom has progressed with the type of Christian teaching and attitudes that will produce fruit for years.

We have great plans for this group of students. The experience of each of you in these areas are individually greater than mine. Your combined experience is something I want to use to help guide us in our work. It's "PLEASE" time.

Please send me your comments, suggestions, warnings, and ideas about the class curriculum. Please check your schedules to see if a teaching visit to Nepal is possible. You are invited. Please share this with other preachers / teachers who may want to participate in this work.

You will never know how much this work, through BVBID, and our time with you at two retreats has meant to Judy and me, and how much it has meant to the church in Nepal. Thank you for your assistance, your example, your encouragement, and your prayers.

Your brother in service ............. Jerry

Plans In Uganda, Workers In Congo...

Dear brethren,

We are doing fine here in Uganda. The churches of Christ in Busia, Namayingo and Bugiri Districts of Uganda are doing fine. On the other side, those churches in Busia District of Kenya are also doing fine. Their monthly gospel meetings are going on well. This Saturday, 10th of December, they will be meeting in Genguluho village. 

On the 15th of December the Uganda School of Evangelism will host a lectureship. Plans are being done and teachers have been given lessons to teach. On our side we are also preparing ourselves on how to host them. 

On the 11th of December I and brother Samson Omutele will be going to worship with brethren in Sigalagala church of Christ in Maragoli area in Kenya. They are raising funds to buy land for their church. We will be there participating in the fund raising. November 28th Margaret and I went to Nairobi, Kenya to visit her doctor. She was found that the cortisol was still low and her cholesterol was also high. The doctor told us to be visiting the hospital at least after three months. Pray for her health. 

The brethren from Congo ask for your prayers. There is a lot of tension after election. They have also sent me their report which I have pasted. 

Yours
Francis Wechesa 

REPORTS ABOUT THE CONGO WORK OF EVANGELISM

Dear brother in the Lord

I think this message finds you and your family doing well.

It’s a great joy to have an opportunity for giving reason why we thing the Congo work needs to continue and is worthy of the support of these churches.

I.  The purpose of this report is twofold:

One, to show by scriptures, that gospel preachers have a right to adequate financial support.

Two, to give more information on the Congo work.

There are several reasons to think that the Congo needs support and must continue.

The most important of these reasons is: we have preached and many people have believed and many of them have been baptized and continue to worship in the Lord church.

If we must stop since the church is still at his novice age, what will happen to those won souls to the Lord? To whom will they go?

They have been convinced of their lost state when they were in the denominations. Should they get back there in order to be saved?

Even the disciple’s of Jesus when he asked them, do you also want to go after those who ceased following him. What was the disciple’s answer? They answered, to whom  will we go, Lord, you have the word of life. John 6:68

Reason 2

We started this work in 2007. This is the fourth year since the church was established in Congo. So, in four years, can a church be able to drive the work in everything without an outlay of money while there is no income at all?

The church is still young to be left alone to assume all of the many responsibilities, both spiritual and material ones? Can a boy or daughter of four years be able to live without his parent’s help? Not at all.

Reason 3

The Congo work needs to continue and is worthy to be supported...

Because the support will enable the teacher to teach more people.

The time he ordinarily would spend in making money can be used in ministering the message of salvation.

Then, the importance of money matters to a preacher may be seen when one considers the material aspects of life on earth.

As long as one lives on earth he must be concerned about:

·Food
·Shelter
·Clothing
·Transportation
·Medical attention
·Education 

All these demand an outlay of funds, however without an income they can be no outlay. Now my question is: which of the above necessities did our sponsors provide to any of the evangelists on the field in the Congo work? Although our work is worthy of great appreciation? Nevertheless, we have not used this right, but we endure all things lest we hinder the gospel of Christ. I think preaching is such an important matter that its proclamation should be supported. God made for priests to be supported as they ministered about things of the temple (1 Cor. 9:13).

Finally, the Lord ordained that those who preached the gospel should live of the gospel               (1 Cor. 9:14).

It is the duty of people, because of Christ’s appointment, to support a preacher.

Reason 4

Our fourth reason is to present to our sponsors the facts of our work in Congo and this indeed, the growth of each church in details.

A)  UVIRA CHURCH OF CHRIST

The church started this work in 2007 with brother Theofilo M. Songie, a graduate from Andrew Connally School of Preaching (Arusha, Tanzania).

We started with three persons, and now 75 men and women have been baptized with more than 50 attending every week. This church is still open and worshiping.

Brother Theofilo is the evangelist in charge of this church. He is a genuine one both for teaching and preaching. He is living in Uvira Town, East of Congo, South Kivu Region.

B)  BARAKA TOWN

More than 60 have been baptized, and more than 40 are attending every week. Brother Mtendjwa Kipimo is the evangelist in charge. Baraka is located at 90 km from Uvira.

C) LWEBA TOWN  

Aoci Ngolo is the evangelist in charge, with 36 baptized. This church is open and is worshiping.

D) MBOKO TOWN

The church continues to worship.

E) FIZI REGION 

We have another church. Amisi Mialano is the evangelist in church.

ALL those facts, brethren in the Lord’s work, are living reasons why the work in Congo should continue being supported.

Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not vain in the Lord (1 Cor. 15:58) (KJV) Read also 2 Cor. 9:6-11

Always with you in the Lord’s labor.

Yours in the Lord 
Theofilo M. Songie

Churches Working In Cambodia...

Dear brethren,

Things are going alright with the church and school here in Siem Reap Cambodia.

We are about to harvest now, especially in the village congregations. Also, as the church at Takam now wtih Cheouy, who is the leader for the congregation, they are trying to run the registration to cover the church there and, soon or later, they will have their own permission that they will not worry any more with the denominations around.

Sokchea, who is the leader for the congregation at Leang Dai, will marry soon with Pisey. We are happy for them to marry so that they can help the work there more.

We as the staff plan to have the church leaders meeting in Janaury, as I reported earlier. Also, this coming December 15-18 we plan to have a camp for the school to visit the beach in Cambodia, and during that time, the staff will have five personal goals to share to one another.

The bridge is working good, but as it was built a little bit small, so that the van of our orphanage can't come through, I think if we have a better driver that he can make it.

All in all the works are doing ok and we are looking forward to making contact to a group of people down in the Battambang area trying to set up Bible studies with them as they are used to the members of the denomination.

That's what I have now to share with you all and I am looking to report more next time. 

In His service
Chann

God Is Good All The Time...

Even though December is just beginning and the year is quickly coming to an end, the work of Extension Training is making a powerful impact on the world. Sacrifices are being made, souls are being won for the Lord, lives are being changed and the church is growing numerically and spiritually.

Plans are moving forward for 2012. The potential is incredible as we look at several new locations to share in the work of training men to preach the gospel. God is opening a number of doors and we are excited about the possibilities. I look forward, with great anticipation, to sharing the news as it unfolds in the months ahead.

The Bear Valley Bible Institute in Denver is also looking forward to a new class of students in January. At this time we will potentially have one of, if not, the largest January enrollments for the Denver campus. Everyone at the Bible Institute is encouraged by the increased interest of men who desire to prepare themselves for ministry. 

We ask you to join us in praying for the work of Extension Training as it expands in the new year. We also ask you to pray for the current and incoming students here in Denver. If everything unfolds accordingly, we could possibly be looking at nearly 400 students in the entire Bear Valley program of training men to preach the gospel. Now that is news to get excited about!

God is good all the time and all the time, God is good. I am sure you have heard this many times before. Yet, it seems as I read the reports received each week, I continue to see how true it is. God has been so good to me, personally. However, God is so good to this work. I believe you will see the same as you read through each of the reports below. Our God is so good.

The news speaks for itself...

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

Donnie Bates recently sent his monthly report about his work at the extension school in Chimala and upcoming plans in Honduras. Read more about his recent work here. You can also read more about his trip to Honduras over the last few days here.

Extension Reports 

Students Campaign In 18 Locations In Cameroon: After completing the first year of training in Cameroon, students for the next two weeks will be campaigning in 18 locations.

Phanat Visits The U.S. and Several Visit Cambodia: Two teams recently visited the work in Cambodia and Phanat was able to visit the U.S. and surprise his parents. This is a great report.

A Young Work With Great Potential: Even though the work in Ukraine is less than 20 years old, the potential from graduates in the Extension program will help change the future of the church.

AWESOME! This Is Great News: Cy Stafford’s report shares the incredible news of growth throughout Tanzania. The graduates from the ACSOP are making a difference.

Graduation And Other Great Work In Tanzania: The recent graduation of students from the Andrew Connally School of Preaching, along with the evangelist efforts of Jimmy and Trina Gee’s work in Arusha, Tanzania is bring others to Christ. 

Final Thoughts
Each week we draw closer to the end of the year and it is approaching quickly. With each week I grow more thankful for each of you. I know that each day this work grows because of the tremendous generosity of wonderful brothers and sisters like you. The sacrifices you make on this side, combined with the sacrifices being made by brethren on the other side, bears fruit in great ways.

Thank you for your love for the Lord, for His church, and for the lost. Together, as fellow-workers in the kingdom, God is working through us and giving the increase to our efforts. To God be the glory.

God bless
Bob

AWESOME! This Is Great News...

Greetings Fellow Workers:

We hope and pray all is well and that this note finds you all on the bright side of life, blessed beyond measure. We are well, blessed with good friends and wonderful fellowship in the Gospel. 

Sid Aultman and Jonathan Weimer have blessed us this week working with the Kwa Mrombo congregation. We are grateful for Sid’s leadership and love of the Gospel in leading the Hoover group each year working with us during the Safari for Souls campaign efforts here in the Arusha area. We thank God for men like these who sacrifice much for the cause of Christ.

Charles Ogutu (one of our ACSOP graduates) sent a report with the great news of a new Church plant, with twelve souls giving their lives to Christ. David Bayi (another graduate) phoned with the good news of a new brother in Christ at the new Meru congregation. Michel Mitalami (another graduate) working with a new Church plant at Monduli, reports two souls being baptized into Christ this week. What a joy it is to be a part of God’s work and to be in joint-fellowship with such godly men here in Tanzania.

Isaac Kusupa is here for a couple of weeks to help with our “Future Preacher’s Training Camp”, and our “Tanzania Christian Camp.” We visited a few minutes before Bible class this morning and he updated me on two new congregations he has helped plant in the western part of Tanzania. The Kabro congregation of twenty two souls (sixteen being baptized in the last month) and the Kumve congregation of thirty two souls (twenty seven obeying the Truth in the last month) are examples of what God is doing through the training of faithful Gospel preachers that they might teach the good people of their home lands (2 Tim. 2.2). 

“Marker” a term used to “judge” the success or lack there of is often asked for by many. This past weekend we witnessed such a “Marker.” The Monduli congregation planned and executed a four day evangelistic campaign effort. No “American Missionary” was involved directly. Yes, we have played a part in training these men and supported them in their lives and efforts, but this event was their’s totally. What a blessing it is to see these men take on the leadership responsibility we had hoped for and worked diligently toward for the past fourteen years.

We are indeed a blessed people of God to have the hope of Heaven God has promised. We are blessed to know our sins are covered by the blood of the Lamb through the Grace of God. We are blessed to have you as friends in this mission effort. We are blessed to have you all as faithful supporters in this work of God. Thank you, God bless you and may your holiday season be all you hope it to be. 

In Him, 
Cy, Stephanie & Granny

Graduation And Other Great Work In Tanzania...

"Orphans are easier to ignore before you know their names. They are easier to ignore before you see their faces. It is easier to pretend they're not real before you hold them in your arms. But once you do, everything changes." ~David Platt

Yes, everything  changes...one’s  eyes are opened and hearts are touched... This quote speaks to our awareness of needs around us...especially the needs of innocent babies who require love, physical care and spiritual guidance to grow into responsible adults. To the left is a picture of the the recently abandoned baby Jessica. Imagine what a difference a church-sponsored, long-term orphanage could make in spreading the Gospel in Tanzania.

Lindsey studied with Therasia three times this past week, focusing on the differences between the Pentecostal denomination and the Lord’s church.

Therasia’s friend (Jackie, age 17) was invited and stayed for one study and later studied alone with Lindsey. When asked why she wanted to learn more about the Bible, Jackie replied, “Because without God, life is nothing.” Both Therasia and Jackie attended our mid-week Bible study.

Last week, Margaret, a 23 year-old employee of the mosquito net factory, was mentioned as having a study scheduled with Lindsey. Although Margaret could not read well (translator read for her) and was nervous about answering some initial questions, the study went well.

Yesterday, the last child-training class for 2011 was conducted (for a total of 11). The mothers listened attentively as the basic Biblical principles of child-training were reviewed, emphasizing that, there is only ONE thing a parent should do: “Train your child to obey you... as you teach  and live by Bible principles.” That’s it in a nutshell! Practical examples were used showing the necessity of the parent being joyful, the need for consistency, how and when to use the rod, spending the majority of your time with your children (Deut. 6: 4-9), the importance of physical affection, and the power of prayer. The basis for any good thing you want to teach your child can be found in the Bible (spiritual growth, good work habits, kindness, respect, good health habits, obedience to the government, hospitality, etc). A recent quote from a sorrowful mother is a great  sobering reminder to us all: “If you lose your children, nothing else in life has any flavor or joy.” In addition to the Bible, Trina gained much insight from a book entitled “NO GREATER JOY” by Michael and Debi Pearl (not members of the church). Although we do not agree 100% with them, parents could greatly benefit from their books and dvd’s on practical, common-sense, Biblical child-training.

Sid Aultman and Jonathan Weimer (from Hoover, AL) have been busy doing evangelism and follow-up at Kwa Mrombo. They have also held studies with members in order to strengthen their faith. The dedication shown by these men to the work here is tremendous. We thank them and pray God blesses them for their sacrifices.

On the home front, Heather and Candace now have braces (Abigail should get hers off this  month) and Lindsey was “set free” 2 years ago. Thankfully, the cost of braces in Tanzania is about half of that in the states. Abigail has been doing a lot of sewing for Christmas gifts and made Naomi the cutest little green blouse and skirt. We’re anxiously awaiting the arrival of the TCC group, especially our oldest son and his friend, Lauren, to make this holiday season a time of family togetherness. May God bless you all as you have blessed us.

In His Service,
The Jimmy Gee family

To view the complete report with pictures from graduation, please click here.

A Young Work With Great Potential...

Dear brothers, families and churches,

I want to share with you some of the news about the Bear Valley Bible Institute in Ukraine. I don’t know many of you personally, but I hope that while reading my reports you will learn more about Ukraine, the church of Christ there and the work of the Bible institute.

Due to God’s help, your prayers and personal support, now we have an opportunity to teach 14 people in this Bible program. Some of them in half a year will graduate and will go on their way serving God and preaching His word in local churches.

November was full of interesting events. First of all, at the beginning of the month, students went on the evangelizing campaigns to 3 cities in Ukraine. Every year we plan 2 campaigns: one takes place in spring and the other takes place in fall. We divided students into 3 teams, as we’ve done it before, and they went to help local churches (Gorlovka, Illovays and Slavyansk). We are working with those churches for quite a while and try to support churches and their ministers there. Overall, the campaign went well, and in some cities the evangelizing brought some fruits, and new people started coming to Bible classes and Sunday services. Our goal is to preach Christ, and in this way we encourage churches to keep on evangelizing constantly. 

Second, we had an opportunity to visit a seminar in Kramatorsk that was taught by American brothers, whose leader was David Deffenbaugh. The topic of the seminar was “Fixing our eyes on Jesus.” There were several speakers who taught us, inspired, encouraged and shared their experience with us for several days.

In this month, there were only Ukrainian teachers teaching the classes: Vladimir Paziy, Vitaliy Rodichev (both of them work as preachers in Kramatorsk) and Victor Semikoz (a preacher from Krasnyy Liman). All of them are Bear Valley graduates. These brothers are constantly working with the Institute and helping it a lot. Due to their help, we have a good team of Ukrainian preachers who think alike and stand in the sound doctrine. 

Besides teaching at the Institute and coordinating its work, I try to visit local churches and look for the potential students. 

At the end of November, we were blessed by the arrival of Owen and Moonean Farley. They have been working in Ukraine for quite a long time, especially with Central Church of Christ in Gorlovka. Owen will teach at the Institute and conduct some classes and seminars for the church. We are thankful for this help and for their desire to serve God. 

As for the building and the process of registering the paperwork, I think that due to the prayers of so many people, we are close to the finish. In the summer, when this building was registered as the church property, we couldn’t know that there would be many difficulties we would have to face, which is signing new contracts with service and utility providers (such as electricity, water, phone companies, land rent, firefighters etc.) and officially discontinuing the old ones. However, the main part of work is already done. Now this three-month-race is almost over. Since we’ve registered the building as the church property, we are already saving 15% of our funds, even though the prices in the world increase annually. Thank you for showing patience and support when we needed it.

Students send you their greetings and gratitude for the opportunity they have to study God’s Word and for their financial support. They understand that if not for the support from American churches, they would have to work full time; therefore, they wouldn’t be able to dedicate that much time to learning Biblical disciplines.

God’s churches in Ukraine are not older than 20 years, and they aren’t still able to support financially this so expensive and yet such an important project as the Bible Institute, that trains and prepares news preacher of the Gospel every year. We need your financial support, and if you are willing to help us, please contact the coordinator of our Institute – Howell Ferguson (hferguson@bvbid.org).

I want to thank you for your help and trust to this extension school in Ukraine, and for showing persistence and effort while helping us. Ukraine is situated in the “heart of the Europe,” so maybe eventually this work that we are doing together will bring forth the big fruits. 

God bless you

Your coworker in serving the Lord
Dennis Sopelnik

To see the report with pictures, click here.

Phanat Visits The U.S. And Several Visit Cambodia...

Dear fellow inheritants of eternal life,

I am thankful for the opportunity to report of the work of Jesus Christ for the past two months. I apologize for not giving a report for the month of October because I was away in the states to meet with some of you! It was such a blessing and happened so fast and I am glad it did. After the "Siem Reap 6" (Wes, Kathy, Sheryl, Sharon, Rachel, and Dale) came to work with us in the month of October, (and did such a wonderful job) I decided to go back with them to meet with the elders of Bear Valley in Denver, Colorado and to do a report of the work here in Cambodia for the members there as well. 

It was my first time to go back to America since I left 4 years ago. I’m really glad that I got to meet such wonderful people while I was there. I thank God for allowing me to be part of His great family. I want to thank Wes and Teri Autrey for allowing me to be a part of their family for a week. They are such a good and godly family and a wonderful example to me. I've learned so many things from them. 

I am grateful for the men and the elders of Bear Valley for being on the same page and allowing me the flexibility to contribute to the work of Christ here in Cambodia. I also want to thank them for not only flying me to America to meet with them but also flying me to Austin, Texas so that I can see my family and supporters there as well. I appreciate their generosity, love, and thoughtfulness. I was able to surprise my parents when I showed up at midnight on their front door. The look and smile on my mothers face was priceless. Needless to say, she didn’t expect me to be there, but right away she asked about my daughter, Katesana (whom I left in Cambodia with her mother). The granddaughter trumps the son every time but it's ok. 

While I was there I got to eat some of my favorite food that I miss so much as well as meet some of my closest friends and personal supporters (Trent, Andy, and Justin). I am so thankful for them and they mean so much to me. It was really good to catch up and just hang out. Of course in four years, a lot of things have changed. Most of us are married with children and it was such a wonderful time for me to see their family and fellowship with them. 

I was also able to see my old school, Southwest School of Bible Studies and visited with some of my old instructors and secretaries there who still remembered me! I enjoyed it very much. I was able to meet with the brethren in Mathis and report to them as well as the brethren who meets in Odem, Texas. It was good getting to meet brother Patrick Hammock, the minister for the church in Odem, and his family as well. Of course, He, Justin, Rick and wife, Lieh Brumback flew to Cambodia to join in the work there a day after I flew back home to Siem Reap. I appreciate so much the work that they did while they were here for two weeks. The students and staff of IBISR and the children at Hannah's Hope really benefited from their teachings and generosity. 

I want to thank Justin Guess, minister for the Mathis church of Christ, for coordinating the group from Texas to come to Cambodia. I know its not easy getting people to volunteer their time to fly oversees to a third world country. I appreciate you so much brother. We also had Bob and Lorene Burright, who are board members and supporters of Hannah's Hope come to visit the work the same week. It's their second time coming and the children love them. We appreciate their love and sacrifice as well. All in all, these past two months have been very exhausting, yet meaningful and blessed. I truly thank God for overflowing me with such goodness. I thank all of you who I've met in person for encouraging me and supporting me to continue to serve God in Cambodia. I apologize to those who I couldn’t meet personally due to the short visit of mine. Lord willing, next time. If you want to see the report with pictures about the work, please click here.

Phanat