Denny Petrillo visits Malawi

Cholera Spreads Widely

“Worst outbreak in two decades… every district in Malawi affected”

Rather than having a pitched tent that quarantines those infected with the coronavirus, there are now tents at hospitals where cholera patients stay in crowded conditions as they fight against the disease.  Thankfully, we have only had one student mimic the symptoms, and he has fully recovered.

The students are wary of how many sicknesses are spreading during rainy season and staying at the school as much as possible.

Our Honored Guests

Four, faithful men came from near and far to bless the school this month

Two local teachers and two directors of schools equipped the students with increased Bible knowledge one week at a time.  

Beginning with a survey class covering Exodus through Deuteronomy, a local teacher led the way.  He was followed by another Malawian who has studied at various schools and taught in one other preaching school.  Galatians was his topic for the week.  

Next up was Denny Petrillo, president of Bear Valley Bible Institute of Denver and their extension schools, who spent a week teaching “How We Got the Bible”.  As one of the newest Bear Valley extension schools, we were blessed to have Denny come to see the campus and teach in the men’s program.  

Denny did everything a guest teacher does, and then he went the extra mile.  Not only did he teach for 7 hours each day, grade homework in the evenings, and review his lesson for the next day, but he also preached and taught Bible class on Sunday at the worship services, participated in an impromptu Q&A, and allowed Dale to ask as many questions as he wanted on any topic as the thoughts came to his mind. 

Denny was the first guest to stay in our home for a week in 3 years.  What a huge encouragement to our family!

The Malawian director of another preaching school in the country finished strongly with Hermeneutics…understanding Scripture.

A sneak peek…

We are going to host a Bible bowl-type event entitled “Race of the Testaments” intended to generate a healthy competition between the youth, their dads, and possibly even their moms (to be determined).  The questions will come from the book of Ephesians.

The youth are getting a head start as Leann launched their first meeting to evaluate interest last Sunday afternoon.  All seven literate children want to participate.  Leann will continue to coach the youth while giving them Bible study tools. Their parents have already learned in their respective classes at the school.  The adults will be on their own.

Rising Prices

The price of maize has increased 33% here in Lilongwe in the past 4 months. We are seeking new and creative ways to salvage family budgets. Please pray for us as we are trying to make wise and sustainable financial decisions. 

In Him, 

Dale Kastner

Nigerian school finishes the year strong

SABO ONIBA/LAGOS ISLAND CENTERS REPORT

November 2022 - January 2023.

INTRODUCTION: Almighty God is gracious in caring for all who are in His kingdom, especially in leading us into this New Year. It pleases Him to find us useful in the church in evangelism and training in different locations. Nigeria needs your prayer in this New Year especially in the month of February as our forthcoming election is a decisive one. The unity and peace of our nation are highly dependent on who wins this election. On the other hand, our school ended the year on an excellent note as we went out in evangelism working with a young congregation in Egudu Baale, Agbara area in Ado-Odo Ota Ogun State.  One of our students in excitement stated “thank God for this wonderful way to end the year.”

ACADEMIC ACTIVITIES IN SABO-ONIBA/LAGOS ISLAND: The new school in Sabo is striving high. Monday Inoke taught the Life of Christ 1 (Book of John) while Akanimoh Archibong took them in OT Genesis to Deuteronomy and Tim Iwe led the students in Acts of the Apostles. In Lagos Island, James Luka helped students study the Foundation of Mission as Femi Adewuyi guided them in the study of Wisdom Literature: Psalms - Song of Songs, and Femi also took the Life of Christ 1 (Book of Mark).

CAMPAIGN PROGRAM/MARKET EVANGELISM: As stated above, the churches in Mile 2-Badagry area and part of Ogun state are feeling the impact of the school as some students worshiped with them on Sundays to teach and encourage them.  15 Students partly from Lagos Island and Sabo went to Egudu for evangelism. We had about 24 prospects which the church promised to be following up on them after we left. We hope to make more impact in these areas in this new year.

LAGOS WBS WORK:

Lagos Team Work: Visiting Era Church from the 2nd to 4th of February

Online Students Activities: 78

Online Students Active: 15

Under Follow Up: 2

Competed Lessons: 5095

Certificates Awarded: 1292

Baptism:  4

CONCLUSION: Let us continue to pray for one another in this work so that this challenging time will become history especially as our beloved country Nigeria is facing a very crucial election this month. Thanks to all who are assisting us here to do the work of the Lord.

Thanks and God bless you all.

TIM IWE

Sabo Oniba/Lagos Island Center Director

Togo students learn practical lessons in addition to Bible teaching

December 2022 Report

Course:

Classes ended and the teachers were pleased with their work. In general, the students committed themselves throughout the course. They have met all the requirements imposed by the school. All the teachers tried to lead their students and emphasized the practical side of each course. They were instructed on the need to know your course for yourself, to adapt your audience, the practical side. Each student took an exam; memorization work, writing a small thesis on the subjects given by the teachers and finally writing a final exam.

Evangelism:

Three Fridays are the last ones that the students went to evangelization in the neighborhood where the school is located and the success was noticed by two baptisms. A woman who came to sell condiments at the center and her daughter.

 Baptized:                                                           

This month ended with 5 baptized, three in the first three weeks and two more in the last weeks by the students who stayed at the center. The students did many wonders in the area of saving souls during the public evangelistic campaigns, in the visits to the churches, evangelism on Fridays and other personal studies with various people in various localities.

Saturday classes:

The part-time students continue to follow the courses according to the program of each locality, and the new students integrate the classes each time they arrive from the denominations. In addition to the 6 places where the part-time courses are done, there are other places like: Danyi, Amakpapé, Notse, Kpele-Ele, Kati, Iwouna Be, Amlame, Heheatro, all these cities and some villages are our targets for new church planting in this year 2023. The part-time students are an advantage for us to start an assembly with the members of the denominations converted into the church of Christ. We have already registered more than 10 students in each new location.

With our advertising posters, we manage to reach a large number of people who call us for information and at the same time many register for part-time training.

Overall:

Students were released on December 20, 2022 and will return in April for orientation. To resume with the next graduating class, enrollment continues through interview day on February 10 and the start of classes on February 13, 2023.

Research and Writing Syllabus Bear Valley

For this new program in the training system that as with this class of 2023-2025, we have solicited a teacher from a higher education school who has agreed to train us as a full-time and part-time teacher for one week from February 6 to 10, 2023.

 Finance:

We give glory to God since the beginning of this training for the two years, and as a result of all done during his years, we have not lacked support for anything, an addition of part-time schools, have found all their satisfaction. We hope in the future days, to have a land for our school and other things in view of more wandering from house to house.

The Lord's Supper

A sister from the church of Christ in HANINGBA who has the ability to make the Lord's Supper was invited to teach the students how to make it. She came to the centre with wheat flour, which she kneaded and made into dough. From this dough, breads were made by putting this dough on the gas. It was a wonderful experience because they were used to learning how to make bread when it was ready, now each student is able to make bread for the Lord's Supper. The sister's name is Mrs ALUKA Agnès.

Computer Science

Our student evangelists are computer literate. They do research on the sites thanks to this training and the internet connection that the school has.

Koforidua, Ghana students conduct successful evangelism campaign

KOFORIDUA EXTENSION SCHOOL

FOURTH QUARTER REPORT, 2022

We need to be grateful to the Almighty Father for seeing us through the just-ended year 2022 for His blessing in diverse ways. We want to express our gratitude to our sponsors who have continued to stretch their hands by means of sending money, books, and other materials to support the work here. May the good Lord continue to bless you and your effort to train people to help in the preaching of the gospel. Happy New year to you all.

STUDENTS:

Currently, we have fourteen (14) students. They are doing very well by combining their work schedule with classes. We are expecting two additional students to begin the course soon. In addition to that, we are going out for the second time to advertise for more students in February.

ACTIVITIES

Our planned public preaching came on successfully. It was from October 25 – 30th and all the preaching was done by the students. On Sunday, October 30 the worship activities were led by the students as well. According to the preacher for the congregation (one of the students) two (2) souls were baptized over there.

CLASSES

Three courses have been read. The course on the church of Christ 2 (worship) was taught by Kwabena Gyan-Mante, and Marriage Family Life and World Religion by Bro. Paul Larbi Young.

BAPTISMS & RESTORATION

In all 20 souls have been baptized and five were restored by the effort of the students.

Report by Kwabena Gyan-Mante

Mbanga, Cameroon school baptize and restore 54 souls

BVBIC-Mbanga Report

Happy new year to these powerful people of God. He has done it for us again! May His name be glorified. The staff and students of Bear Valley Bible Institute Cameroon - Mbanga say glory to his holy name as we prepare to graduate and send out our 4th batch of students here in 2023. 

The month of March shall be a month of jubilation and congratulations as our newly trained, fresh for the ministry men, enter into the field both here in Cameroon and in our neighboring country of Chad. We are also joyful of the work done by the fourth batch of students especially during this December’s field work and internship. The interns went to about 10 different fields to work for a period of two weeks, but more for those who used their week of rest to stay in their mission ground.

The students shared the gospel with about 300 persons. About 2000 tracts were given out within this 2-week period to 14 different areas. Some of them traveled to a lecture ground and to some other villages to continue work there. One new congregation was established between the frontier of Cameroon and Gabon.  

About 23 souls were added into His kingdom during this evangelism campaign as well as about 31 souls being restored. This makes a total of 54 souls that entered into the kingdom of God. Let us continue to depopulate hell and populate heaven. Many are still outside and are looking for an opportunity to be converted. Who will come for us? Lord, send us! The Bear Valley Bible Institute Cameroon - Mbanga is ready to answer, “Present, and ready to go!” Let's put this young assembly into the hands of God. Let us pray for the new converts as well. 

Weekend evangelism is still part of our mission, as the students still go out every weekend to Kerunzo and Ewangelion to lead worship and continue to make connections with prospects.  

The mission to distribute Bibles to our suspects, prospects, and eventual converts is not left behind. We thank those who have supported this initiative. "They need Bibles." 

Short courses went well with a special one on “Pastoral Counseling” by brother Rufus. Brother Dafta also came to teach a December short course while brother Bigda taught the wife’s class their course.

The students of Mbanga and the staff also took part of the graduation ceremony in Wotutu last December before going for their internship.The sister school was sending out their 6th batch of students or the "Zentians.” It was great to be a part of the one big family. 

One of our students, by the name of Balobagne Vincent, lost his father. The burial took place on the 24th of December 2022 at Banessen village. The director and one other staff member represented the school during the burial. Two students, on their internship around that area, also took part in the burial. Also included were 3 other preachers who worked in that area. Let's continue to pray for our student and his family as he is now back in school.

Gueckedou, Guinea conducts successful leadership seminar

Introduction

Since the Bear Valley International lnstitute is our main supporter in this noble work of training preachers, as we share the updates, it remains our duty especially to faithfully and sincerely report to them the activities that we do. Thus, below are the works realized here during the month of January.

I-Classroom

After a month's break for the end of year season, we resumed classes on January 10, 2023 to continue our work and the following courses were taught:

1- Christian evidences. From 10 to 23 January 2023, by Niouma and Kamano.

2- Hermeneutics 2. From January 23 to 27, 2023, by Antoine Fasa.

The evaluation results of the written and oral exams were notable and they proved to us that the students have understood the lessons.

II-Evangelism 

The month of January 2023 is certainly the beginning of another year of great previlege for us here at the Gueckedou Bear Valley Bible Institute to make Heaven rejoice. We are pleased to inform you that by His divine power, the Lord  translated 8 precious souls into his Kingdom  having confessed His Name and going through the waters of baptism. This is the result of the different evangelistic efforts of brothers Eloi Tolno, the preacher at Fassaba, Francis Musa and the staff at the Institute.

III-Training of local congregational leaders.

After a meeting with our coordinator, Steven Ashcraft, when he came here in October 2022 and then in an audiovisual conversation last December, he encouraged us to do a rapid training program for the leaders of local congregations for their edification.

With his material and financial support, we had this training done from January 15 to 29, 2023. Twelve individuals took the training and were taught the following courses:

1- The 2 covenants by Francis Musa from 16-18/01/2023

2- The New Testament worship by Antoine Fassa from 19-21/01/2023

3- The New Testament Church by Emmanuel Kamano on 23-24/01/2023

4- Overview of the Bible by Robert Kamano from 25-26/01/2023

5- Homelitics (public speaking) by Niouma 2 Kamano from 27-29/01/2023.8

With regard to the result of this training it has been such an interesting program of edification and production of leaders capable to lead local congregations. We are eager to manifest all our appreciation for it.

This program is very beneficial for the churches at Gueckedou and will no doubt be for all the country of Guinea in that:

- Men are edified and turned into leaders or preachers in a short time.

- Some of these leaders are put on the waiting list for a full-time program of 2 year study. 

- It encourages and promotes the establishment of new assemblies.

IV-Construction of Worship halls 

Through the good management of our valiant Coordinator, Steven Ashcraft, the churches in Gueckedou continue to enjoy the grace of God through the willingness of a brother in the Lord to assist the local congregations in the construction of houses for worship. After the 2 congregations of Damas and Bandainin in 2022, three other congregations - Fassaba, Ledoumboulo and Dento began to build in January 2023.

V-Suggestions

While we engage to climax the remaining activities of the first batch of those who just completed the rapid training, our suggestion is for another of the same program to be organized for other leaders of local congregations from March 1 to 15, 2023.

Conclusion

As usual, for all the above, we thank God first, because without him we can do nothing. Then we thank Bear Valley International for the spiritual, moral, financial, and material support for the advancement of God's work in Gueckedou and in Guinea. We also thank our coordinator Steven Ashcraft for his unwavering love in technically supporting the Church of Christ in Guinea.

Finally we say thank you to Ken, Barry and to all other people of good will, for supporting the work of God in Guinea.

May God render to each one according to his works. 

Niouma

Gweru, Zimbabwe school begins new term

JANUARY 2023 NARRATIVE REPORT

INTRODUCTION

January has brought with it new expectations, new hope and renewed effort towards what BVBIZ is set out to do. The year began on a high note with several activities taking place. We can report on the following;

NEW TERM BEGINS

A new term began on the 9th of January. Students returned safely, after a well-deserved rest so as to continue with their studies. The following subjects are being taught this term;

Wisdom Literature 1(Job-Ecclesiastes)        I.Mutichu

Islamic Studies                                             K.Madyira

1 & 2 Corinthians                                         K.Madyira

Denominational Doctrines II                       M.Muchingami

1- 2 Peter, and Jude                                      H.Suwari

Research Methods                                        I.Mutichu

1 & 2 Timothy                                             I.Mutichu

Introduction to Computers                           I.Mutichu/N.Kuchena

1-3 John.                                                       Mark Reynolds

Greek                                                            M.Muchingami

A SPECIAL VISIT

Mark Reynolds, the BVBII extensions deputy director visited the school from the 9th to the 14th of January. This was his first ever visit to the school. During his stay he taught the book of 1-3 John. Students enjoyed the class and were left at another level. His visit was a huge blessing to both the students and the staff.

CLASSROOM BLOCK

From the funds that were raised at a fundraising event in Harare towards the construction of a classroom block, 7000 concrete bricks were purchased in January at a cost of $1105. Great appreciation goes to all who contributed during the October event.

NEW VEHICLE

One of the major challenges that was confronting the school was transportation. Personal vehicles of late have been used to ensure that the school continued to run smoothly. The overuse of such vehicles had also been taking a toll on them. Great appreciation goes to the Woodland Oaks Church of Christ for providing money towards the purchase of a second hand vehicle with high a clearance. Scouting was done in Harare by both management and a board representative and a mechanic and eventually interest fell on one vehicle, a Toyota Hilux D4D Truck, which has since been purchased. Some major touch ups were done on it so that the vehicle becomes road worthy. The major changes on it included the new injectors, new turbo, new oil pump and other minor repairs.

BICYCLES

One obstacle to our evangelism efforts has always been transportation for students. There is a distance of 6km from the school to the main road. It is from this road that students can board public transport. Other students actually cycle 32km to and fro to service the Lot 64 congregation. No public transport reaches the area. Brother Jerry Bates of World Evangelism Publications chipped in by donating 5 bicycles to add to the few that the school is in possession of. BVBIZ remains grateful to Brother Jerry for such a gesture.

ICT TRAINING

BVBIZ now has a special phone and computer application to facilitate communication, learning and interaction between students and teachers then students and the administrator. Teachers can upload material and grades to it. This application shall be linked to the school’s website as well www.bvbiz.co.zw. Registration of courses will be through it as well. Students will eventually be able to access their grades, course material and transcripts from there. As an initial step, teachers underwent training on the 13th of January. An orientation shall soon be done to all students whenever some suggested changes are effected. This application will soon be available on Google play store.

EVANGELISM SEASON BEGINS

The BIBIZ 2022 class has now commenced its evangelism efforts. Students will be distributed in various congregations that would have expressed a need to partner the school in their evangelism efforts.  One-week campaigns shall commence beginning in February and every month thereafter until the month of May in preparation of the upcoming field program . Results from these campaigns will be reported

WHERE ARE THEY?

Every month we trace where our graduates are and what they are doing with the knowledge and tools they were given at BVBIZ. This month we focus on one of our oldest graduates, Lavert Togarasei Zungunde. He joined the school on our part-time program and graduated in 2021. His zeal and that of his wife for spreading the word is unquestionable. This is a couple on a mission. If God adds a few more years to their lives, more would be done for the Lord.

CONCLUSION

In summary to the above, classes commenced, additions were made to the school’s assets, both students and graduates continue to be active in the field, the ICT agenda is progressing well among many notables. The school remains grateful to you all for your support. We plead with you all to keep remembering BVBIZ in your prayers and planning. May God bless you all

The President visits Malawi

Hello!

It is always a blessing to have a home that is visited by many! Here in Malawi, we have been blessed and felt honored to be visited by our President Dr Denny Petrillo.

We are all aware how busy Denny is, and if we think of 60 schools under heaven that need him to visit, such visitor coming at your house, WOW! What an honor! The holiday is over and time to start another semester is here. We are starting on the 6th of February, 2023. Keep us in your prayers as we now have 30 students enrolled. 

DR DENNY PETRILLO

As you have noted in the introduction, Brother Dr Denny Petrillo is the president of Bear Valley Bible schools all over the world. We have 60 schools and for him to visit all of these schools is not easy. Especially when we think of how much it does cost to travel from USA to places like Malawi the central Africa. We felt honored and blessed to have him. Though it was holiday time, but we managed to gain from his knowledge as he taught "How we got the Bible", and also "1 Timothy chapters 1 to 4" those who attended were about 42 preachers including some of the Bear Valley Bible Institute Ekwendeni former graduates.

We really enjoyed the lessons and also were given the materials to use as we continue studying. Materials given were like; DVD on How we got the Bible course, (hard drives with lots of courses, sermons, commentaries and audio lessons, etc), hard copy of the notes on How we got the Bible and also empty hard drives which can be used to save in lessons and other Bible materials were given to those who attended.

SCHOOL OPENING

We are opening the school on 6th February, 2023. Again,  another blessed month with 3 visitors; Donnie, Charles and Chad. Donnie will be teaching at our sister school in Lilongwe the Malawi Capital while Charles and his son-in-law Chad will come to Ekwendeni. Charles will be teaching short course on "Bible Geography" while Chad is a nurse and will be working with a local clinic at Ekwendeni area. We are really thankful for these godly men. Their visit will boost the good reputation of the school. It is always a blessing to receive visitors!

CONSTRUCTION WORK

In our previous report we talked about the students hostel building finished, now we are happy to report that solar power is installed in the hostel building. And also we have built shower rooms, toilets and the school kitchen.

We are thankful to the Bear Valley Bible Institute International working hand in hand with the Hillcrest Church Missouri for the monthly support. A lot has been achieved since you partnered. Without you we could not get where we are today. The work is still on, souls are still lost today, as long as we are able to see this we have duty to evangelize! 

Eternity is forever Think souls!

As it is rightly said "Until all have Heard"

Ephron and Clergynton 

Tirupati, India students conduct evangelism campaign

Reporting Letter for the month of December-2022

Dear partners of BVBI-Tirupati-India. We covey new year greetings to you  all in the most holy and matchless name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We thank you for your prayers and encouragement .  We request your continual prayers and encouragement in 2023.

We would like share brief report for the month of December.

BVBI-Class room work:- In the month of December we have started teaching  Isaiah, Jeremiah and Ezekiel from the major prophets .

Campaigning:- we have conducted campaigning at S.T.V Nagar on December 16th,2022. All the students, staff, and some of the church members were able to participate at the camp. We are thankful to our church member Mr.Lokesh and his family who were with us for the entire camp and providing the best hospitality.

Students Participation:- BVBI-Tirupati students were able to actively participate at the local churches and assisting in handling children classes, youth classes, midweek bible studies etc..

Participating at couples  meeting at Rajamandry:-  Rajamandry Church of Christ has organized one day couples meeting on December 10th. The purpose of the meeting was to motivate husband and wives to preach the gospel of Christ like Aquila and Priscilla in the book of Acts, about 500 people were able to attend for the meeting. We are thankful to our BVBI instructor Mr.S.Vijay Prakash for inviting us for the one day meeting.

Prayer Request:- Lord willing our BVBI-is going to conduct two days Christian Growth Bible Seminar on January 20 and 21,2023 (Friday and Saturday). We request you to pray for the success of the meeting.

Thanking you.

Yours brother in Christ.

Vijay- from BVBI Extension Centre , Tirupati-India.

Husband and Wife graduate from Fiji School

2022 GRADUATING CLASS

This year, we had two students to graduate from our program. Our graduates this time are a married couple, Romulus and Mereani O’Brien. I cannot say enough about how much these two have meant to our program and how much we are going to miss them both. Romulus and Mereani came to our program from the Vatadamu congregation on the north island of Vanua Levu, which meets in their home. Romulus left a good job behind in order to come and study in our program. They also happen to have six kids! 

In spite of the challenges and sacrifices, they persevered and did extremely well in the program. Romulus is a natural leader, and he has been the heart and soul of our program for the last two years. He is enthusiastic about the gospel, and he has a deep passion for evangelism. During his two years of study, he continued to work with various congregations in the Suva area, helping with the teaching and preaching wherever he could. He is also the one that the students always turn to for leadership in class. We are really going to miss them both! 

I must share this story which will tell you something about the character of Romulus and his love for preaching. The Wednesday night before his family left Suva to return to their home island, the Raiwaqa congregation had a farewell tea for them. As I was saying my goodbyes, Romulus shared a story with me. He said, “Before I came to this program, I could write my sermons in two or three hours... now it takes me three or four days!” I consider that to be one of the greatest compliments that our program has ever received. Before our program, he could a few hours putting together a few verses and “preach.” Now, it takes him several days to study his text in its context and develop faithful application. 

This past Sunday night, Romulus was back in Suva visiting and preached at Raiwaqa. He delivered what I think was the best sermon I have heard him preach yet, and one of the best sermons I have heard since moving to Fiji. It was powerful, filled with direct application (something the Fijians often struggle with), and was a true expository lesson (coming straight from his text and context). After the lesson, remembering our last conversation, I asked him how many days he spent studying. He laughed and said, “Brother, I have been studying on that lesson for... three weeks!” I told him jokingly, “Then, brother, you need to spend three weeks writing your sermons, because that was a really good sermon!” 

 Jason Pierce

BIR – Instructor & Academic Dean

Ukraine school and church continue to persevere

Dear brothers and sisters, families and congregations,

I'd like to sum up the results of 2022 and share with you some plans for 2023 in my letter.

First of all, my country was forced to face unprecedented warfare. All kinds of the most contemporary weapons, missiles, bombs and explosives alongside the newest technologies are being used in Ukraine. Even the air raid alerts don't come up in time as the supersonic missile of the newest generation hits and completely destroys 9 story apartment buildings with peaceful citizens inside. This full fledged warfare has lasted 10 months by now leaving behind hundreds of victims, millions of refugees, total blackouts, lack of heating and water. This is how the last year ended. It’s horrifying and saddening. But there's a little light in the end of the tunnel - God's promise and His salvation. Last year there were many baptisms. Thousands of care packages were distributed. Thousands miles of the roads driven evacuating people. As well as thousands of opportunities for inviting people to salvation.

We are no heroes. We just want to live in a peaceful country and do our job. We have not stopped studies in the Bible Institute in spite of the war. The Institute was relocated closer to the Romanian border and the classes continue. We have 6 students and 3 will graduate this year. One more student whose name is Dennis could have been here in the classroom but sadly has to be in the cold and damp tranches somewhere in Kharkiv region. He's protecting peaceful people from the aggression risking his own life.

My family worships with the congregation in Bela Tserkva, a city not too far from Kiyv. Unfortunately, most of the missiles are targeting Kyiv and its region destroying our energy infrastructure. We found ourselves in the trying circumstances. However, the church congregates every Sunday and works with the numerous refugees. Almost every Sunday we minister to them by distributing the food packages, sharing in their needs and helping them to adapt in the new place.

The answer to the question, "How much longer of this horror?" is in God's hands. We trust Him completely and wholeheartedly learning to find some good in everything. It feels like a holiday if we have 4-6 hours of electricity during the day giving us the chance to complete our daily chores. We are learning to appreciate everything we have and thank God for every moment.

As for our plans for the next year, we will keep working for the Lord. We have 2 potential students and some prospects for joining the Lord's family. These are happy happenings and they give us strength to move forward.

May God keep all of you. Many things would be impossible to accomplish without your help. We appreciate each and every brother and sister in Christ who keeps praying for us and supports us in this difficult time.
Your brother,
Dennis Sopelnik.

Nine souls added to the Lord in Sierra Leone

Bear Valley Bible Institute Sierra Leone
ACTIVITY OPERATION REPORT FOR DECEMBER, 2022

Full Time and the Extended Programs

 INTRODUCTION                    

Wow! So just like that 2022 came to an end? Well, the good news is that when we analyzed all the activities we undertook at KBVBI in 2022, and we couldn’t think of anything else but to express our gratitude to God Almighty who made everything possible. In addition, we continue to mention and register our appreciation to our beloved brethren who are directly or indirectly supporting our work here. We are so thrilled to bring you this end of year report for the month of December 2022. We are even hopeful that more will be done for the Lord in 2023.  In December, classes continued, a Bible Lectureship was held, our students went on a 2 weeks festival break, some souls were converted while some erring brethren were restored, and the marriage ceremony of one of the staff was conducted. For more details on the above activities, we encourage you to keep on reading.

CONTINUATION OF ACADEMICS AND THE VISIT OF A NIGERIAN STAFF

In the month of December, our students (full time and extended) continued with their classes. We were also privileged to host Brother Emmanuel Abiodun Adegoroye, one of the Bear Valley instructors at Abuja center, Nigeria. He taught our full-time students for 9 days (5th-9th and 12th-15th December, 2022). He handled the course, “Intertestamental Period.” Brother Emmanuel’s vast experience and knowledge (he taught Greek and leadership classes at the School of Biblical Studies, Jos: An Affiliate of the University of Jos, Nigeria for 18 years and presently preaches at Kado Church of Christ in Abuja) helped to shape the understanding of our students so much.  We are grateful for all the sacrifices he made to come over and impact our students.

A SHORT FESTIVAL BREAK

Our full-time students were given a 2-week festival break (22nd December-5thJanuary, 2023). Moreover, the extended students were expected to resume on the 7th January, 2023. We are thankful to God for the committed students He has given us; every one of them is always eager to resume back to school. We continue to covet your prayers for them to remain steadfast and diligent.

CONVERSION OF SOULS AND RESTORATION

As the Gospel continues to spread, more souls are waiting to respond to it. Therefore, for the past December, the Lord added 9 souls to His church here and 2 brethren were restored. We plead with you to continue to pray for these new babies in Christ.

BIBLE LECTURESHIP

On the 16th December, 2022 a Bible seminar was held at the Bear Valley campus. This seminar was organized by the school in an effort to continue to teach local congregations the importance of embracing the effective practice of leadership in local congregational levels. Great leadership lessons were taught and we were once again blessed with the effort of Brother Emmanuel Adegoroye who was one of the speakers. Seventy church leaders and brethren from various congregations attended the program. The attendance got affected because it rained heavily here on that day and some who had planned to attend couldn’t come. However, we remain grateful for those who came.

THE MARRIAGE CEREMONY OF PETER SAHR MAKUNDU

You would recall that in one of our recent reports, we invited you for the wedding of the Director of the school, Brother Peter Sahr Makundu which was scheduled to be held on the 2nd and 3rd December, 2022. By the Lord’s will, the wedding successfully came to pass; Brother Peter got married to sister Patience Admire Makundu who worships at one of the congregations here in Kenema, Kamanda Street Church of Christ. The Makundus wish to thank God Almighty who, in His providential care made everything happen. We are grateful also to the whole Bear Valley family for your contributions to the success of this marriage. Brother Steve Ashcraft is being acknowledged also for supporting us prayerfully and financially.

STUDENT AUTOBIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: Patrick Mani Manga

Patrick Manga is one of our committed and serious minded students. He was born on September 23rd, 1998, to Mr. and Mrs. Momoh Bockarie.  He hails and lives in Koidu city, the headquarter of the Kono District in Eastern Sierra Leone. Brother Patrick worships with the Ndomaina Street Church of Christ in Koidu, a congregation where his father serves as a preacher.  He was added to the Lord’s Church in 2018. Since then, he has been actively involved in the activities of the church. At the congregational level, he has proven to be a very evangelistic and truth-loving brother. Upon his conversion, he was enrolled into the WBS Correspondence Course and completed successfully. After this, Patrick longed to further his studies in the Bible, hence the opportunity to enroll at Bear Valley emerged. At the school, Brother Patrick, together with the other four students from Koidu made a request to the Kenema Bear Valley administration for the campaign to be taken to their territory. And this request was granted last year in August.  Not only that, Patrick serves as the secretary for the current congregation that was established at the Bear Valley Campus in 2021. At the end of this report, Patrick’s picture will be attached.

MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT

We want to also inform you of some of the challenges we are facing in doing this work of the Lord; one of those numerous challenges is road accidents. On the 5th and 9th December, 2022, two of our staff- Academic Dean (Michael S. Triyoh) and the Students’ Dean (Joseph Missailie Jr) were involved in terrible motorcycle accidents. This happened while the both of them were going for congregational visitations as it is part of our programs to be involved in external missions. Michael’s left eye was so badly hit that he needed to undergo surgery while Joseph’s hands were also bruised. However, they are responding to treatments and we plead with you that you join us to pray for their complete rehabilitation.

CONCLUSION

December 2022 as the closure of the year 2022 was not a bad month for us at all. We remain grateful to God for all that was achieved for the Master. Moreover, we continue to appreciate you and pray also for you daily, our dearly beloved brethren. We look forward to meeting in the New Year, Lord willing.

Nigerian students emphasize Christian education to young people

LAST QUARTER 2022 WORKS REPORT

The year 2022 has ended and we thank God for His promises to us, just as he promised to give us (John 10:9-10). We thank Him for life and strength to do his work as we continue to thank all the saints for your fellowship with us in the Gospel of Jesus Christ in this part of the world, until now.

We were able to visit and worked with eight of our congregations and held several youth Bible classes and distributed several Bibles and study books, such as, Voice of Truth, and some study literatures from Gospel Gazette.  God blessed these works with some of our youths who had become weak. Many returned and joined in the Bible class and promised not to turn back again. There were seven baptisms from Ihe Town congregation, Olepe congregation in Ette Town and Effech Town Congregation.

The great interest the youths have to study the Bible with the visiting evangelist resulted in the plan to hold a one day Seminar in Enugu Urban to study the importance of Christian Education in Development of the church.  The date of the Seminar is 28th January, 2023.  Help us pray for this work as we hope to motivate the youths in Bible learning to enable them to live according to the word of God and join in teaching others.

Thanks for your support that has enabled us do these works.

Your brother,

 Herbert Nwankwo Chukwu

West Coast school graduates another batch of students

OPERATIONAL REPORT FOR DECEMBER, 2022

Happy new year from all of us at West Coast school of Preaching to you all. It has been a great and prosperous year. Many wonderful things have been accomplished by the grace and mercies of God.

We enrolled full-time students in January 2021 and by the grace of God they have successfully completed their two years studying about 46 courses. Their last day with us as our students was on 24th December, 2022. On this day, Joshua Kwame Aidoo gave them a few words of admonition after some singing and prayer.

It was all joy and smiles as they shared with us some fun moments during their stay with us on campus.

The part-time students have been given a break from 24th December 2022 to 13th January, 2023.

 Both past and current students of Westcoast school of preaching have been busy with the Lord’s work throughout the year. From the beginning of the year into the new year, week in and week out our products are somewhere within the country doing the Lord’s work.

December was not left out, as there were various evangelism appointments in the month. Some of our current students did a lot of follow up at Mpintin after the last campaign for Christ there.

 Currently, we have a past student who has been travelling to Kenya occasionally to restore churches whose doctrine have been corrupted. Also, one of the students who just brought their two-year program to an end, after teaching them a Church Planting course, decided to plant a church in one of the villages in his area.

Thank you.

Joshua

A new class of students in Wotutu

Dearest in Christ,

We send a special new year greeting to you all over there in your various families. We do hope you have entered the year 2023 with joy from above and in good health. We are joyous and healthy here.  God is faithful to us all as we made it into the year 2023 without much problem.

2023 is here and 2022 is gone into the annals of history. For all that was done there in 2022, we give thanks and glory. We also give God in all that was not done when we were not able to meet up. We are alive and we have hope! We will do our best to continue from where we stopped off in 2022.

December 8, 2022 was another time for graduation. It was the 6th or the Zeta batch graduation. Eighteen students happily put on their academic robes after two years of studies and development, to graduate to join many others in the wilderness to preach the saving message. This is a picture of the graduates with their wives, as well as 5 missionaries from America and Cambodia, who witnessed the graduation alongside 1040 others who were in attendance. It was colorful, and it was also time to celebrate hard work. Keep them in your prayers as they are in 18 different locations preaching and teaching in congregations of the Lord’s church.

On the 1st of January 2023, the new students were already in Wotutu to start their classes on the 2nd of January. It is always a pleasure for us to welcome them in our home and to enjoy a first fellowship meal with them. They are in Wotutu, and the road is ahead of them to undergo their training. The road is a good one! Their choices to become preachers are good ones! God has given them to us so that we can encourage them and motivate them to stay focused toward their calling.

On the 2nd of January 2023, we started classes, and 22 of these freshmen started their journey with me teaching, “HOW WE GOT THE BIBLE.” Some of them have been preaching before this time, and it is our goal that they pay attention to the classes so as to learn more to add to what they already have known before this time. We have a very rich agenda for them for the first quarter. The courses are “HOW WE GOT THE BIBLE”, “OLD TESTAMENT 1”, “LIFE OF CHRIST”, “PERSONAL EVANGELISM”, “GREEK LANGUAGE”, AND OTHERS.

PLANS

We are starting our weekend evangelism by taking the students to different locations for them to know the terrain here, as some of them come from far away from the south west region.

 APPRECIATIONS

Thank you for trusting in us, and for the many ways you partner with us to keep this work moving. You have done well, and we pray for your continuation so that we can do more as we start up with the ETA batch. The 7th batch is rolling! Only God knows what the future holds for us and the work, as the global economic crisis deepens to affect basic commodities and services. We pray for God to help us here in Cameroon.

God bless you as you make a great day.

Elangwe and family

By His grace director BVBIC-Wotutu

Prayers needed for Haiti

Prayers are needed for Haiti. The gangs have now taken over about 60% of the capital city of Port-au-Prince. Many congregations are meeting in private homes to avoid being overly exposed. The Haitian government is almost nonexistent. Many police officers are trying to make a difference but are outnumbered, and the gangs have more and bigger weapons. Prayers are needed for Haiti. 

Despite the breakdown in society, the work of the Lord continues. In 2010 the Lord opened a door of opportunity for the gospel to move forward, which continues today. Thousands of souls have obeyed the gospel, several denominational churches have been converted, and many new congregations have been planted. To God be the glory for all that has been accomplished. 

We now have twenty-four students enrolled at the International School of Theology. Currently, we cannot meet on the campus of IST because of gang activity in the area. Our local director stays in contact with me several times a week. He and the teachers have tried to take every precaution to ensure the safety of our students. The students and teachers have not allowed the problems to stop them from reaching out to lost souls. In 2022 they were able to baptize 137 souls into the body of Christ, and two new congregations were planted. I have not been able to travel to Haiti since January 2021. I am thankful for our men in Haiti who care for the work. Please continue to remember them in your prayers. 

Early on January 6, a group of gang members came over the school's front gate. The guard alerted our caretakers, and they escaped over the back wall. There was no damage to the facility, and for that, we are thankful. Most likely, they were looking for items that could be quickly sold. We were most grateful that Oral and Olia, the caretakers, and their two boys escaped unharmed. Continue to pray for peace in Haiti. 

First ever graduation in Uganda

Brethren,

Grace to you and peace  from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

I thank my God in all my remberence of you, and always making mention of you with joy in my prayers for the work you are doing in the kingdom, your participation in the work from day one we dreamed this work here in Uganda. 

More than to say, here I come with all joy to share the happiness that burst our hearts bringing people from different places of the country  to witness the graduation of the ten men we have been having at Bear Valley Uganda. We did not cease to let them know that we are just but commissioning them for the work.

THIS BOOK OF THE LAW SHALL NOT DEPART FROM YOUR MOUTH   BUT YOU SHALL MEDITATE ON IT DAY AND NIGHT SO THAT YOU MAY BE CAREFUL TO DO ACCORDING TO ALL THAT IS WRITTEN IN IT FOR THEN YOU WILL MAKE YOUR WAY PROSPEROUS AND THEN YOU WILL HAVE SUCCESS. 

January 6th was a bright and joyous day that was the long waited day for our students. The graduation attracted  many people including the police superintendent of the area who gave us his  speech of appreciation to having been good people and encouraged the people around to imitate doing good and knowing God.  

The men having proved  not only from class, also in the field, rightly handling the word of truth.  We witnessed ten men going out for the noble cause of winning lost souls to Christ.  The students thanked the school faculty and our tireless supporters for the good work having been done in their lives. And they prayed for the next intake.

We were moved by their heart to pray for those coming after them, meaning they are having their school  at heart. This I report to you that we have  been able to select 20 students from the applications we received from various parts of the country for the 2023-2024 intake. Pray for us and their success. 

May the Almighty God bless 

Until all have heard, 

Director- Bear Valley Uganda .

Raymond

Training preachers in Peru

Greetings dear friends,

Grateful for God's care, love and mercy, we close the year 2022 with great expectations for this year, in which we hope to do things much better than last year.

Since our last report we have taught 2 additional courses: Hermeneutics and A.T.1. and we are about to start the course of Acts. Our students continue their commitment to instruction and performing to the best of their ability in their respective congregations. Two of our students have had complications with their health (Victor Quijandría and Mariela Ramirez), in the case of Mariela she underwent surgery in mid-December, after an arduous fight against cancer, she has finally undergone surgery and is now in recovery process, with great expectation to continue with his instruction.

Share a brief review from one of our students about the Hermeneutics course: "My experience in the course was very interesting, I saw the importance of studying hermeneutics in order to stay and help to stay in the truth of the gospel of Christ, the very teacher well and with a lot of patience we look like kindergarten children, but the teacher Juan Abanto was very patient and I saw his care in teaching, thank you brother Juan Abanto, God bless you” (Ethel Lapa).

Here, I share some notes regarding the course given in December by brother Abraham Alata: “Teaching the life of Christ part I was an exciting experience. We cover the intertestamental period and a brief introduction to each of the fourth gospels. The students were fascinated to discover that much of the information we read in the gospels comes from the intertestamental period and I believe that this course helps them to consider other aspects such as the cultural, economic, political and social background. It was also a blessing for me” (Abraham Alata).

The next course (the book of Acts) will be taught by brother Andrés Nuñez, we are already making all the preparations to start this coming January 7th. On the other hand, we are also with great expectation for the visit of the director of the international extensions, our brother Keith Kasarjian, with whom we will have, God willing, a very active weekend, on the one hand our I Biblical Seminar on Saturday January 21 on the Biblical Administration of Finances and a tour of some of the local congregations on Sunday the 22nd to encourage the brotherhood and inform about the benefits of participating in the Bible Institute.
It has been a pleasure to share some things related to the institute here in Lima – Peru, a hug from afar and our best wishes in your respective ministries.
In Christ, Juan Abanto

More souls saved in Cambodia!

From the Siem Reap International Bible Institute

We really want to thank you for taking the time to read this report and look at these recent photos.

IBISR

Our school has completed the books of Isaiah; 1, 2 Samuel; 1, 2 Corinthians. Now we are starting new studies in the books of 1, 2 Kings and 1, 2 Chronicles as well as the Prison Epistles. Darat Run and myself (Piseth Rin) are the teachers of those classes.

Seminar

We attended a joint seminar on New Years Eve with many other members of the Lords church in Cambodia. Over 100 members attended in Komport Province. It is always good to strengthen our faith - but especially good on this time of year when we can show Cambodia this is a time of renewing and refreshing.

Donating Blood

Some of our students and staff donated blood to the patients in the local hospitals.  This give us a sense of giving whatever we have to give and it sends the message that we care about physical life and eternal life at the same time.  The hospitals appreciate our giving and it gives us opportunity to represent God in a way that the world is grateful for.

Adding to the Family!

Last month we had 6 new souls added to the Kingdom of Christ and last week another made the decision to follow Christ as well!  So we rejoice in the 7 new souls added to the church and thank God first and all of you who had a hand in supporting the spreading of the good news of salvation!  Praise the Lord!

See Photos.

Prayers

• Please remember the new converts as Satan no doubt wants them to turn away from God.

• Sister Kong who is in the hospital - who is the mother of one of our students. As a note to remember - we evangelize from one family member to another in many cases and praying for the students and their families strengthens their faith and peaks their interest in Christianity.

We are blessed to be called Christians and blessed to have a loving God who cares for us through servants like you. We pray for all of you to have a faithful and hopeful New Year in Christ,

Piseth Rin and Darat Run

Co - Directors IBISR

18 more baptisms in Zambia

Introduction

We send greetings to all of you
brothers and sisters in the Lord!

It is again that time of highlighting some activities that are happening in this part of the world and the school in particular. And as a school we are very delighted to report the following vital signs of upward mobility as far as the school is concerned.

I.                New Intake

All is set for the 2023 academic school calendar. We look forward to the start of the new intake and to get to know the new students. The courses that will be taught for are as follow:

Normal courses: Old Testament 1 (Study of the Law: Gen. - Deut.)How We Got the Bible, Christian Evidences.

**Elective** (Writing skills, English, Cost of Discipleship)

Short Courses: God’s Plan of Salvation (Scheme of Redemption), Personal Evangelism 1 - How to Conduct Bible Studies (one on one)

2.     School van and three library computers

We are so happy to report that we received the funds through Church of Christ in woodland Oaks to purchase the School van which we have done and we also received funds through our country coordinator Donnie Estep to purchase our Library computers, we have bought three of them and they are placed in our Library.

There is no doubt we have fervently prayed for these tools we now have and glory be to our God for you brothers for your donation.  These without doubt will contribute to affect our work in a positive way. Brother Donnie Estep played a very huge role in this and we keep thanking God for him. As we always say that he is such a rare breed in the Kingdom of God.

3.     BVBI-Zambia Alumni

We are also very happy to report that all our Alumni are actively involved in expanding the kingdom of our master. We are very glad to inform you that through the efforts of our alumni many souls have been saved to the glory of God. 

The school administration where invited in southern province where Vincent Simwanza is currently working. And brother Cephas Mwamba Spoke to encourage the gathered people with the word it was indeed the moment of refresher to our spirit.

The following is a full list of some of our former students indicating where they are serving the Lord and what they are actually doing.

Clive Kabika (2017) - Clive has started work with a private school in Southern Province. He is working with the Church of Christ in Kalomo District. And the reports are over-warming we are working on visiting him and the congregations in the area

Andrew Mwila (2017) - Andrew at first struggled to establish himself after graduation and now is working as bricklayer and he is now preaching at Church of Christ in Chilanga of Lusaka District. He is married and has a daughter

Joseph Musonda (2017) has been working in Luapula province and the leadership in Mansa highly recommended him, Joseph is now on the Copperbelt in Baluba District working with the Church there. He is married with a daughter and His work for Christ is highly recommended by the Leadership in that area. Very soon we are visiting Baluba District for evangelism as a school.

Boniface Sianjina (2017)- working very hard to establish a Church in Kafubu block, in this area we have a open facility for correctional services in Luanshya district and Boniface has been working there together with the Church at Mikomfwa. He is now involved in raising broilers for Business. Borniface is married with three daughters.

Albert Phiri (2017) - the young man was partly trained as a soldier before he was trained at Bear Valley Bible Institute here in Zambia as you can see him on the picture in uniform. Albert struggled a little bit for years now after his graduation to settle, he is in the village of Mpongwe district on the Copperbelt province. He has two daughters and the wife deserted him. We as school administration are helping him to establish a congregation in the village where he is doing farming. Albert has potential to continue being a powerful preacher he is today

Vincent Simwanza (2020) - has been offered work at Livingstone School of Evangelism in southern province and he is training others. Vincent has betrothed Beverly and they are getting married in December of 2023 here at Bear Valley Bible institute in Zambia. He is actively involved in evangelism and has brought many to Christ today. Besides this work, he is also a good painter and a bricklayer.

Sthembiso Magawa (2020)-Sthembiso is at University of Zambia, Lusaka campus. He is in his second year and he is pursuing medicine. He is actively involved with the Church of Christ students’ fellowship at (UNZA). He fellowships with Church of Christ at Central in Luanshya whenever he is home. Sthembiso' determination to work for God is great.

Gershom Chansa (2022) - The leadership of Chingola says that they could not have gotten any preacher better than Gershom. Gershom is helping a congregation at Chiwempala church of Christ in Chingola. This congregation is very small in terms of numbers. They could not handsomely support a preacher. But one elder and somebody else in the congregation have singularly taken upon themselves to do whatever they can in a small way to support Lackson and Gershom. It is almost three months and encouraging numbers of baptisms and restorations are being recorded daily.

Matthews Mwale (2022) - Matthews went back to his home congregation in Luwingu district of Northern Province of Zambia. Just like Reuben, Matthews likes the work that he is involved in. and that work is the work of preaching. We as a school are constantly in contact with the Leadership to where Mathews is preaching. Above all they have both recommended prospective students who we are expecting now

Arclay Kabaya (2022) - upon graduation, Arclay went back to Siavonga district of Southern Province of Zambia. He is planning to start tomato farming to supplement his preaching. He has already gotten a place where he will be doing this project. He is very actively involved with the church in Siavonga.

Baptisms recorded: we have recorded eighteen (18) souls saved for the month of December and We give glory to God for our preachers we are training! We continue soliciting for your prayers and any support for them.

Restorations:  we have also recorded eleven souls (11) restored in the same month of December 2022, this happened in three districts namely Luanshya, Chingola and Ndola the entire Copperbelt province has thirteen Districts, now with our Van available we will be able to move in all these districts for evangelism. 

We believe that the school is on firm ground on its pledge to train faithful men who will be able to teach others also. And we give a special thank you to our amazingly supportive family and friends of Bear Valley Bible Institute-International and the Church of Christ is Woodland Oaks

You are always in our prayers! We wish you all God’s speed and Happy 2023.

Brotherly,

Cephas and Fred