Sierra Leone students and staff "turn their world upside down" with the gospel

Bear Valley Bible Institute Sierra Leone

ACTIVITY OPERATION REPORT FOR JANUARY, 2023

Full Time and the Extended Programs

 INTRODUCTION                    

Happy New Year to you all our brethren and avid readers! This is the beginning of 2023 and we have greater hopes that it is going to be a more fruitful year as far as God’s work is concerned. We are so excited with the way 2023 has started with us. In January, a new congregation was planted through our campaign efforts, souls were converted and restored by our evangelistic teams, and our academic activities continued.  For more details on the above activities, please we encourage you to keep on reading.

RESUMPTION OF CLASSES

Clearly, in our December report, we informed you that our full time students were to go on a 2 weeks festival break from the 22nd December, and were expected to resume on the 5th January, 2023. Moreover, the extended students were also expected to resume on the 7th January, 2023. Therefore, we are thankful to God that all our students resumed and continued fervently with all the activities of the school.

EVANGELISTIC CAMPAIGN AND THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A LOCAL CONGREGATION

The need to save souls in our contemporary times is so evident and pertinent as if it has never been before. One of the reasons is that many people are lost in sin to the point that if one doesn’t preach to them, they are heading for destruction. We know (KBVBI) that it is for this reason that the Bear Valley Bible Institute International benevolently brought the opportunity to us here in Sierra Leone to further carry the message of salvation to those dying souls. In light of this, the school administration, in the month of January, directed its campaign efforts to Panguma town. Panguma is one of those towns inhabited by the majority Muslims (As it is the case with the whole of the Sierra Leonean society). On the minority level, religiously speaking, the town has a good number of denominations. With this background, we decided to take the true Gospel there as many are lost. The team that went for the campaign was composed of the staff, the full time and extended students and some members of the evangelistic teams that we have organized through the help of our dearly beloved coordinator, Steve Ashcraft. For the past one week (6th -12th February, 2023) we spent there, the Lord opened the heart of 13 people, among whom were Muslims (5). Since it is a new environment entirely, we faced some challenges of accommodation and others. But with God being on our side, and with all long suffering and perseverance, we were able to start a new congregation there. The zeal that is seen in those new converts is something that is worth commending! They confessed that they had never heard the preaching of the true Gospel as they were taught; all they knew about Christianity was on a denominational basis. There are many in that town that have the potentiality of turning to Christ; our external mission has immediately been extended to them. As of now, they are worshipping in a rented town’s building Let us please continue to remember them in our prayers so that they can remain true to their calling, especially as they are being surrounded by Muslims and denominations. As usual, our regular weekend evangelism also yielded fruits so that 4 souls were converted within the month of January. So all together, for the month of January, 17 souls were converted.

EVANGELISTIC TEAMS REPORT

You will remember that in our November 2022 report, we informed you that through our coordinator’s brilliant ideas and support, we have organized evangelistic teams to various parts of Sierra Leone which include Freetown, Bo, Magburaka, Kailahun, Koindu, Kenema, and Kono. These teams have been working harder to carry the Gospel to the lost souls and in helping to restore erring brethren and dying congregations. This great evangelistic movement and the effort of the school is going to turn Sierra Leone upside down for the Lord in the very near future. We are very grateful again to Brother Steve for this brilliant idea. Sierra Leone is a Muslim-dominated country, as you know, therefore to convert people here is a very great challenge. It requires dedicated men and concerted effort. With the efforts of these men, 10 souls were converted, one congregation (Grafton in Freetown) and 22 brethren were restored in January. Some of the teams lack android phones for pictorial evidence. However, though it is a challenge as there are others like transportation and movement, yet the work continues. The target for these teams this year is to establish congregations, retain them, restore dying congregations and backsliding brethren and equip local congregations. Please brethren, let us remember these servants of the Lord in our prayers.

STUDENT AUTOBIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: Peter Tamba Focko

Peter was born on May 2, 1998, to Mr. and Mrs. James Tamba Fock.  He hails and lives in Kusedu Village, Kundu Section, Kailahun District. His family members are all members of the Lord’s Church except his mother whom he has been preaching to personally. Brother Peter worships with Kusedu Church of Christ where he serves as the song leader. 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. Peter has been yearning for so long to be a preacher of the Gospel. Therefore, his enrollment into the Bear Valley program here is an answer to his prayer. In the school here, he is studious and committed to his studies. He is expected to graduate in November this year, Lord willing and go to the field to win souls for the Lord. At the end of this report, Peter’s picture will be attached.

 CONCLUSION

We want to continually be grateful to you all for reading through, praying for us, supporting us financially and for guiding us with ideas. 2023 is indeed promising; we look forward to making more impacts as it unfolds as the Gospel will continue to be preached until “All have heard.”

Tamale, Ghana school celebrates harvest of souls and vegetables

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE, TAMALE - GHANA

JANUARY 2023 OPERATING REPORT

January was a very productive month with several activities taking place, as our new batch of students also were due to report to school to start the new academic year. There were also several events that took place successfully.

KPALSI SOUTH CONGREGATION LOVE FEAST

On the 1st of January, 2023, the congregation in Kpalsi South hosted a love feast where brethren had the opportunity to fellowship and socialize together. Meals were prepared by the congregation as well as exchange of gifts by members. This event took place on the evening of the 1st which was the Lord’s Day.

Preachers and some leaders of sister congregations in Tamale town were invited and they did participate. Our neighbors around the congregation were also invited and they did attend, including some Muslims. This event brought together all manner of people to rejoice with the church, especially, the less privileged. Brother George Dassah gave a brief sermon at the event on the need for individuals to take a good examination of self as we begin with another year. Many were happy being part of this program. Indeed this event gave many the opportunities to network with other brethren in other congregations as well as make contact with non-Christians to study with them in the future.

Also in the month of January, one soul was added to the Lord’s Church in Kpalsi South congregation. We praise the Lord for the conversion.

SCHOOL GARDEN

We have had a very successful harvest in the irrigation work we did with the help of Healing Hands International who supported us with the water system and that of drip kits. We had a good harvest of garden eggs, cucumbers, okra, some corn, bra, which are our local vegetables, onions, fresh beans, etc.  We still have some few vegetables that are helping with the feeding of our current students, however, we have prepared the land again to transplant and sow some tomatoes, okra and some cucumbers on it to complement our feeding efforts.

ACADEMIC ACTIVITIES

Students have reported in the month of January, 2023 to begin with the new academic year. We had 10 students reported on the 14th January, 2023 for this batch. Though we had several people pick up forms, these 10 are the prospects that have so far qualified and have been enrolled into the 2023/2024 academic period. Classes began on the 16th January, 2023. Between the 16th and the 27th of January, 2023, two courses were taught successfully. Brother James Bisong Legend took them through Hermeneutics 1, while Brother Albert Tamaja Malir taught them How We Got the Bible. They after these two courses had a joint campaign with the brethren from Accra at Lawra-Tanchara Susu where a congregation got planted.

 PERSONALITY PROFILE

Laar Frederick Mon, one of our current students who was with the last batch in their second year is the person we profiled in the month of January. He is from Konchian Gberuk in the North-East Region of Ghana under Bunkpurugu District. He is 30 years old. He was born on the 5th of March, 1992.

He is a Senior High School graduate who couldn’t continue due to financial challenges. He is married to Nindabi Freda Dammigu, who is 28 years old. They are blessed with two children, both girls; Laar Yvonne Feidiib, 4 years old in KG2, Laar Lois Lanansoa, 2 years old.

He and his wife both became Christians on same day, 6th March, 2016 in Konchian Gberuk congregation. They were both baptized by Preacher Niipaak Laar, after the gospel had been preached to them. After being baptized, he got enrolled into Project Timothy at Saboba. He went through leadership training with Project Timothy for four years, where he graduated with a certificate in leadership.  

He started working with the Konchian Gberuk congregation, which is his hometown, while working with them, he heard of the Tamale Institute of Biblical Studies (TIBS). He took advantage and came to Tamale for an interview and got enrolled into Bear Valley, Tamale. He is currently pursuing the Diploma Course with the Tamale Institute of Biblical Studies. He is also currently preaching for the Bunkpurugu congregation. He also does some farming and reeling of animals to support himself as a preacher of the Lord’s Church.

We continue to praise the Lord for mercies and blessings towards us.

Thank you sirs,

Bear Valley, Tamale.  

Accra, Ghana school welcomes new students

January Report, 2023

Much glory to God for ushering us into a new year to do His work. Find below a summary of the happenings in the month of January:

Re-opening

The school reopened as scheduled on Sunday, January 15, 2023. Four (4) new students were admitted in addition to the Seven (7) old ones and prepared for lessons on Monday, January 16.

Staff Meeting

The staff meeting was held on Wednesday, 25th January 2023 to discuss the plan for the new academic year. Four prospective students were also interviewed during the meeting and granted admission. The staff also met with the students to discuss the expectations and activities for the year. A plan for the fifth (5th) coming graduation on March 25th was discussed.

Degree Class

The degree students took their Research and Writing 2 course on the 20th – 21st of January with the Research and Writing course instructor, Bro George Osafo. Students have been given a mini–project to be worked on within a month, as they wait to take their next course in early March.

Campaign Plan for the year

The school planned to have its maiden campaign of the year in Susu-Lawra, Upper West Region from 30th January to 5th February. This plan is in execution as students and instructors have already set off for the program. It is in a plan that subsequent campaigns will be held in Fotobi, Kasoa, and Mandela respectively.

Building Project

Hopefully, the upper flooring is completed. Kojo, EO Larbi, and, Sammy, visited the place to confirm the first phase of work and to see the next work to be done.

Acknowledgment

We thank God once again for a peaceful month and a promising new year. We also express our regards and gratitude to the management of the Bear Valley Bible Institute USA for their support both physically and spiritually. We are grateful to God for the efforts of all the members of the staff and pray that God keeps blessing them. We also thank God for local brethren who also contribute to the development of our dear college. May God bless us all, Amen.

These are updates for the month. We request that you keep praying with us.

Reported by: E.O. Larbi

Haiti school continue to evangelize as violence continues

The Violence Continues:

“As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today.” (Genesis 50:20). These are the words that come to mind as the unrest continues to climb in Haiti. Every day I hear of more shootings, killings, or kidnappings. Much of the police force is trying to take control, but they are often outnumbered. While it would be easy to become discouraged, we know that God knows the situation in Haiti. The violence will end, and a new door will be opened. Please take the time to pray for Haiti, the church in Haiti, our students, and our teachers at the International School of Theology. (IST)

 IST Attacked the Second Time:

The gangs have entered the property of IST for the second time. This time they ransacked the building and took the solar system, generator, and anything that could be sold for a few dollars. While this is heartbreaking, it is for this reason that we are in Haiti. We strive to train preachers and teachers of God’s word. Perhaps one day, the ones who took the items from IST will give their life to Christ. When the fighting stops and we can return to the campus, we will replace the items taken. The gangs will not prevent the training of preachers and teachers of God’s word.

 IST Continues to Reach the Lost:

The problems in Haiti yet, the students and teachers continue to risk their lives to study and teach the word of God. Some students must travel long distances to reach their Bible classes. There are days when the violence worsens, the roads are blocked, and some students cannot attend class. We have had to move the students a few times for safety reasons. We wish we could use the campus, but at this time, there is not a safe road to the campus. The students and the teachers continue to find ways to reach the lost. Almost every day, I receive pictures of souls being baptized into the body of Christ. Because of the trouble, some students (present and past) have started working in the smaller villages. The work they are doing has resulted in six new congregations being planted. To God be the glory, but we are also thankful to have men willing to preach the word. Pray for their continued success. 

Larry Waymire

Arusha, Tanzania school welcomes 32 students to new term

It is our hope that you are all well and doing well with your daily life in God's vineyard. We here at ACSOP are fine and continue with our daily work duties. We thank God for all the good things he gives us every day. Moreover, we would like to inform you that we opened the school on February 6 and have been able to register 11 new students. Also, all 21 second-year students have been able to report to school on time. Therefore, for this first semester of studies, we have a total of 32 students here at the school. And we have started teaching lessons for each class as follows: Starting with the first year, Desdery teaches Genesis, Josephat teaches How We Got the Bible, Ahimidiwe teaches Biblical Interpretation 1 (Introduction to Hermeneutics), Michael teaches Writing Skills 1, and Charles teaches Spiritual Disciplines / Cost of Discipleship.

After five weeks of teaching these long courses to this first-year class, we will have two short courses for this semester that will be taught on the following dates: March 13–17, Eric Lyons from the United States will come to teach Christian evidence. Josephat will also teach Personal Evangelism: 1-on-1 Bible Studies from March 20 to 24.

For the second year in this first semester, Josephat is teaching a long course on Godhead, Charles is teaching Galatians, Michael is teaching Greek I and Desdery is teaching Revelation.

After five weeks of teaching these long courses for this second-year class, we will have three short courses, which will be taught from March 6–24. Where Francis Wecheza from Uganda will come to teach Personal Evangelism 2 (Church Planting) from March 6–10, Bernard Kulanaga from Mbeya will come to teach Christian Evidences on March 13–17, and Ahimidiwe will teach Leadership on March 20–24.

After these long and short courses are taught by March 27, we will start our second semester of long courses, which will conclude on April 25, followed by short courses that will start on May 1st–19th. After that, all our students will go on vacation until the first week of August, when we will open again and continue with our studies.

Lastly, I'd like to end today's report by saying how thankful we are to all our brothers and sisters who give us funds and pray as we do this very good work of teaching people about the Bible. May God truly bless you, and I thank you very much.

Chad Wagner visits Nigeria

Beloved in Christ .

Congratulations for completing the 365 days journey and escaping the turbulence of the year 2022. Who else can make this possible? If not God!.

As we enter into the New Year 2023, God will continue to enrich us abundantly in all ramifications.

May the Best of every good thing in life come our way and reside with us. May the Almighty God bless us in whatever we do, protect us wherever we go, provide for all our needs, prosper all our endeavors, preserve our life to age gracefully, light up every road we take, make our hopes become a reality and help us in all difficulties that come our way . Wishing you a wonderful and prosperous New Year 2023 in Christ Jesus name, amen.

OVERVIEW

i- End of the year program.

ii- Third Semester classes begin.

iii- SWSE- Patron New Address

iv- Bro. Bill Pennell , Bro. Chad Wagner  and Bro. Steve Hilton Visit 

v- Our Capital projects in year 2023

END OF THE YEAR PROGRAM:.

Report from staff, Students of BVBIN & SWSE-IBADAN and fellow WBSFUW in the Western states of Nigeria shows that twenty - three souls were converted and ten restored as the result of the end of the year program and two weekends Evangelism by our students and Instructors between December 26, 2022 and January 28,2023

i- Bro. Balogun Benson was blessed with four converts and two restorations.

ii- Bro. Rowland Matthew was blessed with two converts and four restorations.

iii- Bro. Johnson Godwin was blessed with two converts and two restorations.

iv-  Bro. Godwin Tobi was blessed with two restorations.

v- Bro. Obey Rimanskwe of Mkpanbo -Taraba State reported the conversion of two.

vi- Four of our year-1- Students(Bro. David Attah, Bro. Murphat Victor, Bro. Aduloju Seun and Folorunsho Richard) reported the conversion of two each in congregations they served during the end of the year program.

vii-  Jago   group was blessed with a soul on January 22 while one of the prospects in Butubutu village got baptized on January 24 and another three January 28 at Eletu River.

viii-  One of our Instructors, Bro. Kayode Eniafe reported the conversion of two and restorations of two in Asejire- Osun State.

THIRD SEMESTER CLASSES BEGINS :

Our third season classes commenced on January 16 as scheduled. All the year 1& 2 Students returned to the school campus before the visitation of our sponsors , Bro. Bill Pennell,  Bro. Chad Wagner and Bro Steve Hilton on January 23. The instructors for this semester are: Bro. Kayode Eniafe, Bro . Adeolu Andrew, Bro. Makinde John, Bro. Israel Tajomavwo, Bro. Durojaiye Odeyemi, Bro. Isaac Olaniyan and myself, Bro. Makinde Ebens while Sister Esther Oyenuga continue her service as Computer Instructor.

THREE VIP VISITORS ON JANUARY:

We were blessed with three Very Important Person , Bro. Bill Pennell, Bro. Chad Wagner and Bro. Steve Hilton that visited the BVBIN & SWSE-IBADAN, Oyo State between 9:35am  and 2:45pm on Monday, January 23. They attended our year-1- class and year-2- class respectively and took a quick tour of the campus, reviewed the school short- term growths, met with the World Bible School Follow Up Workers in Western states of Nigeria, reviewed our capital project, reviewed our financial situations of year 2022 and 2023 budget and offered us necessary advice to keep the school going.

ABOUT  A STUDENT: 

Bro. Haliru Danjuma Iliya is in his third years of his training. Presently, he is one of our year-2- Students. Born on April 1999 at Julga Village, Birnin-Kebbi, Kebbi State. He is serving as one of  Evangelists of The Church of Christ, Ajao Estate, Lagos State. His mission is to become one of the bonafide ministers of God in the Northern States of Nigeria in the near future.

Conclusion:  The staff and students of the BVBIN & SWSE-IBADAN wish to express great gratitude to God for His Grace through year 2022. We also express our sincere gratitude to the brethren in Tulare Community Church of Christ % Bro. Larry and Sister Patty Goodin, Bro. Chad Wagner and associate, Bro . Doug Wheeler and family, Bro. & Sister Bill Pennell and associate,  The BVBID family and Bro. Keith Kasarjian, Bro. Jerry Bates and associate,  The Gahanna- Jefferson Church of Christ % Bro. Zach and Sister Kim Van Tassel, Bro.Dorman & DonnaLough, Sister Cherry Lloyd and family, West Olive Church of Christ, Az % Bro. Bob Milstead and you all for partnering with us both morally and financially in making year 2022 a huge success. We trust you will not hesitate to continue supporting this ministry. Have a wonderful year!

Sincerely His & yours,

Makinde Ebens

(The Chief Servant of BVBIN & SWSE AND WBSFUW) 

Training families in Malawi

Eager to Serve

The students set off on a campaign to talk to as many people as they could about Jesus.  They offered Bible studies and looked for those who had fallen away.  In one week, about 210 conversations happened.  

One lady chose to put on Christ in baptism after learning what the Bible says about how to be saved.  Two other women committed to returning to the church after having fallen away due to marrying outside of the church and following their husbands to other religions or merely staying home.

Each day two student families remained on campus to be responsible for the children.  Several children were too young to be in school but no longer dependent upon their moms for food while others returned home around noon.  Parents cooked lunch and supplied snacks for their own children in advance.

The students gained momentum daily being motivated by people who were willing to obey God’s will for their lives.  There is much follow-up work to be done, but the new church plant is now well-known in five surrounding villages thanks to the spreading of the word by the student body.

Serving Each Other

One of the students suffered polio which left him no longer able to walk.  He moves from place to place either by walking on his hands or by wheelchair.  

The other students have rallied around him to be sure he can get where he needs to go.  If he leaves the campus, someone always accompanies him whether to the church building or on errands.

In turn, he also serves others.  When his neighbor was ill during the night, he was the one who sounded the alert.  He woke up another student and the resident staff member so that we could also be called to assist with an ambulance run to the hospital.

Prayer Requests

It is not easy to commit 100% to the Lord, but the student families are doing exactly that.  They have left houses, brothers, sisters, father, mother, and farms for the sake of Jesus.  Their dedication will reap much more than what they have left behind and, most importantly, eternal life (Matthew 19:29).

• One student lost his brother after a long illness.  It was this brother who was caring for his field and home while he was away.  The student has returned to class and is currently on break tending to the needs of his extended family.

• We just received news that a student wife has lost her mom since leaving for break.  The loss has brought her family back to the region of Malawi where the school is located so we are hopeful for her return with the rest of the students on Saturday.

Please continue to keep this work in your prayers.

Dale Kastner

Wotutu, Cameroon attends leadership seminar

Dearest in Christ,

Greetings from Cameroon and from the brethren here. We do hope this report meets you in good health. We are doing good and God continues to lead the way. The new year is in progress and so are our different ministries which are making some significant progress.

Last week in Bear Valley Bible Institute Cameroon -Wotutu went on well as we were observant to see how our new students are growing. We are here to encourage them to be focused because we are aware that the field is ripe but the laborers are very few. We pray that God will continue to help us, as we add workers to the field every two years through the training of preachers in Bear Valley Bible Institute Cameroon - Wotutu.

The freshmen are getting used to the climate in Wotutu as well as the new lifestyle and new eating habits. These changes have caused some of them to get sick, but we are handling it by His grace.

Last week, because the students have stayed together since January 2, 2023, we deemed it time to form the student government for the present. The students elected a group from among their peers to be running their affairs. This is also a way to help them learn how to practice leadership among themselves. Please pray for them as they learn to lead others. We have a slogan in Bear Valley Bible Institute Cameroon - Wotutu that says, “LEADERS DON’T POINT THE WAY, THEY SHOW THE WAY!”

When you see students dressed in Black and standing under the roof of our Bible track building, then you know that they are gathering tracts and discussing how they can reach out to souls. We think souls, and it is awesome that our students love evangelism. It is a great opportunity for them to share the love of God with some lost souls. Please pray for our daily efforts.

Last week I had a great opportunity to be invited, by those in charge of secondary schools in Cameroon, to speak at a seminar on leadership as recorded in Luke’s gospel. It was a great opportunity for me to speak the truth about leadership, as much leadership in the world is in a mess. It was also another opportunity for me to expose the church of Christ to many who are in various denominations. My God help our efforts.

The seminar lasted 8 total hours. We had several working sessions which were personal discussions and question/answer sessions. It allowed us the opportunity to discuss many Bible subjects and not just stay on the subject of leadership. It was a great opportunity for me, and I pray that the seeds of the gospel that I was able to sow in some of the people, will bear fruits one day for the glory of God.

In academia, there is always a time for testing. It is a time for testing as well as a time for them to check themselves to know how much they have been able to comprehend during classwork and preparation. Please keep our students in your prayers. We can see their zeal to grow spiritually and academically so as to be able to help the church of Christ to grow here in Cameroon.

We are still in the business of handing durable Bibles to our new converts. Brother Martin received a giant print Bible that he will be able to read, even without glasses. “THEY NEED BIBLES,” is a common call and concern. I keep receiving calls from many parts of the country with requests for Bibles.

Last week, Brother Mathew, who is one of our new students, baptized Stella into Christ. Please keep her in your prayers as she walks with Jesus. God is too good to fail!

PLANS

From the 20th to the 24th of February, we will be attending the “Jim Corner Seminar,” on leadership, at the church in Douala. This will give our students the opportunity to meet other preachers. They will also be able to learn some new things there. This trip to Douala will only be possible if we have means of transportation. Our Van can no longer plough our roads because of its age and its mechanical issues. We are presently searching for a good replacement. Please pray for us as it is not easy for us with the current price of things. We will need to rent a van to transport our students to that seminar.

APPRECIATIONS

Thank you very much for keeping this work in your prayers and thank you for all the support you are rendering to keep it going. Your prayers and support are the wheels that move this work forward. Please do your best to share our report with others.

May God bless you, as you make a great day in His service.

Elangwe and family

By His grace, director BVBIC-Wotutu

Cambodian brethren baptize twelve

We send our greetings to you all brothers and sisters in the Lord Jesus Christ! We give honor and glory to God who has given us this rare opportunity to work in His Kingdom. This is another good time to report what is happening at IBISR’s school Siem Reap Cambodia during the month of January 2023. We really want to thank you for taking the time to read this report and look at these recent photos.

IBISR’s Academy :

Now we are continuing to train our students 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. Our students are very happy and satisfied with their studies in those subjects.

Adding to the Family!

It was with much happiness that we saw 12 souls put on Christ in baptism. It is always such a joy to see souls added to our family. All of them are from Sombuo village. Please pray for these new babies in Christ so that they may grow in the image of His son Jesus Christ.

Seminar:

We attended a joint seminar at Battambang church of Christ. Our students and staff enjoy staying with the topic (Gospel chariot Missions). Over 60 members attended church in Battambang province. It is very good to have our faith strengthened and to know more about God’s will.

Restorations:

A man named Makara who used to be an IBISR student and he graduated about 5 years ago, walked away from the gospel for many years, but now he comes back to worship God with us every Sunday! And he also taught his wife named Nich to become a Christian. We rejoice in their returning to the Lord and living faithfully.

Prayers:

Without your prayers and care, we can’t do these things. Please keep Darat’s sister, who plans to do an operation soon. And also remember our new brothers and sisters in Christ who were recently baptized.  

Piseth Rin and Darat Run

Co-Directors IBISR.

New students in Luanshya, Zambia hit the ground running

January 2023

Report

We bring Christian greetings from Luanshya, Zambia. Our prayers are that you are all doing well in all your endeavors. We believe that the year has begun on a very positive move, the mood at our school and attitude at our campus for our new students and the church at large is promising a better fellowship.  

We have begun class with twelve men who have reported and already started their first year courses here at BVBI-Zambia. Three more are expected to report momentarily. We pray that this class will be an interesting experience and will also be rewarding to the students, teachers and everyone involved. We have two students from the southern part of the country, two students from the north, three from Copperbelt and two to report soon, we have two from Luapula and one from Muchinga and the other to report soon.

The courses and the teachers for this quarter are as follow:

1.     Old Testament 1 (Study of the Law: Gen. - Deut.) (Cephas Mwamba)

2.     How We Got The Bible (Fred Kanangu)

3.     Christian Evidences (Fred Kanangu)

4.     **Elective** ( Writing skills, English, Cost of Discipleship) (Cephas Mwamba)

5.     Short-course- God’s Plan of Salvation (Scheme of Redemption) (Donnie Estep)

6.     Short Personal Evangelism 1 – (How To Conduct Bible Studies one on one) (Kennedy Mukuka)

EVANGELISM IN LUANSHYA DISTRICT

We have had a good beginning of the month with evangelism done in Mikomfwa Township and central town of our district with all the students participating well. And as a result we had three souls added to the sheepfold. We have also recorded five restorations. We have also helped to build a church building in Roan township. We are preaching in this township though the membership is still low. This year another soul is added to the sheepfold. With our new intake we intend to preach until members begin to meet at a new place.

NEWS FROM OUR ALUMNI

Our alumni continue to be involved in the life stream of their respective congregations. Interesting and encouraging reports have also continued reaching from all our alumni. Reuben Museka (2022) working with the church in Mpulungu and the church there is growing steadily. He is working and surviving as a peasant farmer; he also apportions some time and does his personal evangelism. Reuben has managed to give half way to one of our prospective student his transport money as he was on the way from Muchinga province to Copperbelt in luanshya. Reuben and the church there have made a request for the school to visit and help in preaching. We are so happy Reuben is doing a commendable work.

Simon Khazi (2019) also managed to support a prospective student from Lusaka as he reported for 2023 intake. We praise Yahweh for the growth of our alumni in this area and we have also recorded seven baptisms this year through him preaching Christ.

At Kapiri – Mposhi central province of Zambia through Mike Kanyangala (2022) we have recorded four (4) baptisms and two restorations. Mike has been given a privilege to be holding devotions with his workmates in the morning at the company he is working from and he is using this opportunity to preach the gospel. We keep on praying that the church be established in the area he is working. The new members of the church he baptized have since left the work place to Lusaka.

Austin and Joseph Musonda the two brothers both working at church of Christ at Chibwe are still doing a great work and we have recorded eight baptisms and one restoration, though the number has dropped in terms of gathering on the first day of the week this rain season, the leadership there appreciates their effort in terms of evangelism and visitation. We hope to visit the church there and help in evangelism this year.

Lackson Muwindwa got married this year and he is working with a congregation in Chingola on the Copperbelt. Him and Gershom Chansa (2022) have continued to work together and we have recorded six (6) baptisms and two restoration

BAPTISMS AND RESTORATIONS RECORDED

We have so far recorded twenty- eight (28) baptisms and ten (10) restorations in the month of January. We continue soliciting for prayers for them

We give God the glory for all our former students. We feel confident that these men will continue making a meaningful contribution to the kingdom of God. We believe this is going to be a great year in terms of evangelism as a school.

We continue to give a special thank you to our amazingly supportive family. May our God continue to bless you as you labor in His vineyard. You are always in our prayers.

In His service,

Cephas and Fred

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