Donnie Estep visits Lilongwe, Malawi

Classes Continuing

Throughout the month of February, our men studied three different Bible topics. First of all, Donnie Estep came from America and taught the Scheme of Redemption before teaching the same in Ekwendeni. Following Donnie, Foster Zimba taught the students about the New Testament Church. I taught a survey class of Old Testament history from Joshua through Esther the third week of month. Leann is teaching a ladies class each Friday focused on servanthood and Navie is teaching the women the Life of Christ on Tuesday nights. 

The last week of the month was designated as a research week for the men. They used the week to catch up on assignments and papers. It also allowed them to do a little work in their gardens that help supplement their food stipend.

Now that their program is one-fourth of the way finished, the entire family is learning about the time required for their studies. This time comes at a cost to family time. All students, both men and women, were encouraged to set aside some time in the research week to spend time with their families in order to keep their relationships strong. 

Meet the Students

As a missionary and director, I feel it is very important to help you know the individuals you are supporting. It seems like the best way for you to meet the students is through a monthly introduction. For the next few months, I will introduce one of our families who are attending Bear Valley Lilongwe. Please take time and pray for these families by name. As you will see, they have left jobs, families, and homes to come and study God’s word for two years. 

The Wilson Phiri Family

Wilson was born in 1992 in the Kasungu district in northern Malawi. In 2020, he moved to the Nkhata Bay Area near Lake Malawi. Wilson is married to Cecilia who was born in 1990. Wilson was baptized in 2005 and Cecilia was baptized in 2014. They have been married for 10 years. They have two boys. Hubert is 9, and Blessings is 5. 

Before coming to school, Wilson cut wood with a hand saw, farmed, and did some contract farm work. After school in Lilongwe, Wilson would like to continue learning the Bible and help others grow in their Bible knowledge. 

Here are a few fun facts I see in Wilson and his family. Wilson is an amazing husband and father who has very well behaved children. Cecilia is a dedicated wife and mother who stays focused in her school work. Both of them have amazing smiles which show their inner joy and peace. Hubert is a quiet one who is always thinking like his dad. If I ever need to find Blessings, he is hanging out with his buddy, Flasko, maintaining the campus. Please pray for Wilson and his family as they work hard to increase their Bible knowledge. 

New students in Cameroon

Dearest in Christ,

Calvary greetings from Cameroon and precisely from Wotutu. We are doing better, and we give thanks to God. The church is healthy, and all of the ministries going on here are rolling on well. God is still leading the way.

Last week in Bear Valley Bible Institute was good as our students were busy writing their first exams in Bible College. All went well. We give glory to God for making it possible for them to have a taste of what it means to be trained to become a servant of God in the 21st century. Keep our daily efforts in your prayers.

After final exams, it was time to travel to different locations for mission work. Some students are going far with tracts, a life straw water bottle with aqua tabs, and mosquito nets. Our students went to different regions in Cameroon for the sake of the gospel. Some will be passing through dangerous communities because of the crisis in Cameroon.

APPRECIATIONS

Thank you very much for all your prayers and for your time and timely support towards all the work that is going on here. God is watching and will definitely reward you in due season. Please share our reports with others.

Thank you very much.

We wish you a great day and a great time.

Elangwe and family

Gweru graduates are making a difference

FEBRUARY 2023 NARRATIVE REPORT

INTRODUCTION

The month of February saw BVBIZ moving to another level in terms of its activities. It brought new experiences to students as they began their evangelism season. Progress was registered as well in terms of the curriculum and projects. This report, as has become the trend, will also trace the whereabouts of one of the school’s graduates. These and more are reported hereunder.    

1.0 CURRICULUM PROGRESS

Classes continued in the month of February very well. Some subjects have already been done and completed. These include 1-2 Corinthians, 1-3 John, Denominational Doctrines and Pastoral Epistles. Those that are still ongoing this term includes Greek, Introduction to Computers, Wisdom Literature, Research Methods, Islamic Studies, 1-2 Peter and Jude.

2.0 CROPS UPDATE

2.1 THE GARDEN

The month of February has seen increased activity in the school’s garden. Many different types of seedlings were planted. These include 1200 potatoes, 600 cabbages, 1000 tomatoes, watermelons, cucumbers and butternuts. The objectives of these projects is to improve nutrition among students, provide students with life survival skills and at the same time, help the school to get extra income through sales of these crops.

2.2 MAIZE

Maize is a staple crop in Zimbabwe. The school places more emphasis on this crop as it dominates students’ meals. Only about 1.2 hectares was made use of as we had challenges with inputs. The growth of the maize crop planted in late November is satisfactory. For the past 3 years, the school has never bought maize due to this effort. We are very hopeful that this will be the case again this year

3.0 TRANSPORTATION

The school’s Nissan Caravan, which has been down since October 2022 began to be worked on in February. Outstanding issues on it are the turbo, new suspension and labour charges. Close to a $1000 is needed to get it back on the road.

4.0 EVANGELISM

From the 18th -26th of February, BVBIZ team consisting of teachers, students and five past graduates camped at Buhera center. The task was to evangelize and assist in the establishment of  a congregation there. This was the first ever evangelism effort for the school’s 2022-2024 class. Other experienced preachers in the field namely brothers Siwedi, Mashaba, Zvinzvebu, Zimwasha, Abraham and Jongwe borught in a wealthy of experience as well. Great appreciation to the Marenga and Sadzi congregations for providing food to the preachers. Services were done everyday in the evening whilst every household within the vicinity was reached with the word. Within the 8 days, the whole area was reached by the Gospel. 24 were baptized during the week leading to the establishment of the congregation. Blessed Marufu, the school’s 2022 graduate was eventually left as the preacher there. The congregation was officially launched on the 26th of February. Several congregations that came to witness this development include Chivhu, Avondale, Marenga, Sadzi, Muzokomba with other individuals coming in their own capacities.

5.0 WHERE ARE THEY?

5.1 THE LAST GRADUATING CLASS

An attempt was made to trace the whereabouts of the last batch of students who graduated on the 28th October 2022. The following is the list and their whereabouts;

Bongani Sithole- Bongani is now working with Arisvale Church of Christ in Esigodini.

Thomas Musongora- Thomas is assisting with the work at Tsvingwe congregation, Penhalonga, Mutare

Christopher Mutambirwa-Christopher is working with Acturus congregation in Harare

Tinashe Moyana -Tinashe is working with the Zvishavane congregation

Method Moyo- Method is working for Cure Zimbabwe Children’s Hospital as a chaplain and assisting with the work at Nkulumane congregation in Bulawayo as well.

Edson Julius-Edson is the associate minister at Chivero Mission

Simbarashe Chitanda- Simbarashe is in private practice but is assisting with work at Hatcliff congregation in Harare

Thabani Dlamini-Thabani is working with Amazon congregation in Filabusi, Matebeleland South.

Tonderai Kafile-Tonderai is in private practice but at the same time assisting with the work at the Mabvuku congregation in Harare as there is no preacher there presently.  

Isaac Chipendo-Isaac is in private practice but assists with the work at Manyame congregation whilst at the same time worshipping at least once every month with Ziko congregation where he did his attachment during his school days.

Kudakwashe Simemeza-Kudakwashe is in private practice but assists with the work at the Highfield, Harare.

Tawanda Tinofa -Tawanda  works for an organization called Young Africa in Chitunwiza but assists with the work at the Chitungwiza congregation whenever opportuned.

Remember and Melody Mhlanga-The couple is working with the Glenview congregation in Harare

Michael and Samandra Kasimu-The couple is working with the Shurugwi congregation in Midlands.

Blessed Marufu- Blessed is now the preacher at the newly established congregation at Buhera Centre

Eric Mushonga-Eric began to work with Centenary congregation in Mashonaland Central but is moving to Karoi to join the prison ministry and assist with the work there beginning in March

CONCLUSION

We thank God for what He has been able to do for the school in February. We look back and see God’s favour following us. This would not have been possible without your financial, moral and spiritual support.To the partners and sponsors, may God continue to bless you.  We always look to the future with hope that indeed, through these efforts, the gates of hades will not prevail against the church (Mt 16.18).  To God be the glory!

A new batch of students in Zambia

Bear Valley Bible Institute - Luanshya, Zambia

February 2023 Report 

Introduction

The closing words in Matthew gives us three most important action words surrounding the directive that Jesus gave to His disciples. And these are (‘go,’ ‘baptize,’ ‘teach.’) These are basic assignments that our Lord gave us for making disciples. And as Bear Valley Bible Institute –Zambia, we hold fast to the same mandate that our Lord Jesus Christ gave His disciples. The school is on firm ground in this command as faithful men are taught in order for them to go and teach others also.

New Intake visited by our country co-ordinator 

The new intake started in the first week of January, 2023. The students have so far studied and completed one short course. We are always thankful to God for Brother Donnie Estep for giving his time and indeed life to teach these short courses. He taught the new students “The scheme of Redemption” from 13th February, 2023 to 17th February, 2023. It was indeed a very special treat to all the students. We pray for God’s speed upon him that he continues to labour in this noble work.

The students will soon have another short course to be taught by Brother Kennedy Mukuka. Kennedy will be teaching them “Personal Evangelism 1”.  This is one of the basic courses that are taught to new students. The emphasis of the course is always placed on how these new preachers can conduct Bible studies on one on one basis. We are also thankful to God for Brother Kennedy for teaching our students.

Baptisms

We have recorded six (6) baptisms in the month of February.  And it seems the new students are learning faster than anticipated. They are indeed committed to what they intend to do with their lives. We have always committed ourselves to this pledge as we contribute to their learning process. And we pray that we will have a very rewarding 2023 intake.

Restorations

We have recorded eleven restorations of which as Luanshya district we had three (3), Chingola district we had six (6) and Masaiti district one (1) and Mpongwe district two (2) we will continue to do the work as we still have calls to visit congregations in Northern province and Luapula province

A Visit with Students

The school had an opportunity to travel to Chingola District on the Copperbelt Province with some students on 19th February, 2023. This visit was an invitation from the elders of Chiwempala church of Christ. They wanted us to go and see how our former students, Gershom Chansa and Lackson Mwangala are doing in their ministry there. Upon graduation, Gershom and Lackson were asked to go and work with Chiwempala by church leaders there. And when we visited, we were very happy to see and hear all the positive things that these two young men are doing. 

They have started raising broilers for business as they preach too. It is indeed encouraging to see young men like these so committed to preaching and teaching. Our students had enough time to teach the youths and move around for evangelism in a community, after a fellowship meal we drove back to Luanshya in the evening.

Mid-week worship service 

We as the school meet at Church of Christ in mikomfwa. This has encouraged even the regular members to attend these services. We have continued to do evangelism in Mikomfwa and strengthening members there; we hope and pray that the Church is going to have a different impact in a community there. We plan to have a gospel meeting at this place with all the Church of Christ in Luanshya soon. 

We continue to pray that we have a borehole soon at this place for extra activities for the Church and the community at Large.

The school bus

The acquiring of the school bus has undoubtedly made the operations of the school to be effective. The bus is not just carry supplies of the school. As mentioned earlier, it also carries students to do their assigned duties to various congregations.  On Wednesdays they attend mid-week worship services at Mikomfwa church of Christ. And every Sunday some of the students attend their worship Sunday services at Mikomfwa church of Christ on a rotational basis. We are now doing more programs of the school because we have transportation. We are truly grateful to God for such a tool!   

BVBI-Zambia Alumni

Very good and positive reports about our alumni have continued encouraging us. Simon Nkhazi now residing in Mtendere of Lusaka province, has continued to do evangelism while working as a primary health worker in the ministry of Healthy.

Arclay Kabbaya has continued to thank the School here in Luanshya because of the change he has continued to make in his life, his text message to the school said “thank you for great work you have done by teaching me Church development I really appreciate your effort may God continue blessing you more than you deserve from Arclay” while working as a preacher at Church of Christ in Siavonga, he is also involved in business to sustain his life and he is making good progress.

Conclusion

We continue to thank God for the work He is doing here through us. We are very grateful to Woodland Oaks church of Christ for the financial support  that is sent to us each month. And we also thank all our partners for prayers and every support given to us. We will forever remain grateful to all of you!

Brothery,

Cephas and Fred

Lima, Peru school receives a visit

Dear brothers,
Once again I have the pleasure of writing a few lines with the intention of updating you regarding the work at BVBI-PERU, wishing that each of your ministries be greatly blessed for the glory of our God.

After our last report, I want to tell you that we were blessed with the presence of the Director of International Studies, our brother Keith Kasarjian, on January 21-22. His visit has really been very productive. On Saturday the 21st we had the I Biblical Seminar. On this occasion who was in charge of the presentations was Keith with the theme of "The administration of finances", there were 4 very instructive presentations and they were very well received by the members of the different invited churches. This is setting a precedent for what will be our future annual seminars either with foreign or local speakers.

On Sunday the 22nd we visited four of our sister congregations in different parts of Lima (IDC Los Angeles (south), IDC America (south), IDC Santa Anita (center) and IDC Los Rosales (north). The intention has been both the communion and the publicity of BVBI-PERU among the members of these congregations. Many of the brothers had already had the opportunity to hear Keith preach and it was nice for them to see him again. Keith's presence has certainly given him an added impetus to the institute here in the country. As a result of Keith's presence we had around 80 people at the conference, 4 congregations visited and an increase in students in our last course.

In the month of January the course of "Acts of the Apostles" has been taught, the person in charge of this class has been brother Andrés Nuñez and we are currently about to conclude the course "A.T. 1- The Pentateuch” Juan Abanto. We currently have 9 students (4 of them are formal students and the others are taking the course freely; several brothers have expressed their interest in taking the classes freely due to the difficulty they have with their schedules, but expressing their sincere desire to keep learning.

As of March 11, the institute will be teaching two courses every Saturday for a period of two months, following the suggestions of our director, with the intention of continuing to make it easier for the brotherhood to take the courses according to their availability. The courses will be "A.T2- Historical Books" Juan Abanto and "The Life of Christ 2" Abraham Alata.

On the other hand, we are making preparations for the V Bible Conference scheduled for April 8 in the city of Ica. On this occasion, in response to the request of the brothers in this city, we have decided to decentralize a bit and present the conference from another country point. We hope this decision will be fruitful with a view to promoting the institute more and more. The exhibitors will be the active teachers and one of our graduate students. We hope that all efforts involved are only for the glory of God.

We will continue working both in instruction and in the search for more students to make the work of the Institute more effective and efficient. We ask for your prayers for everything we have been doing and what we want to achieve for the Lord. God bless you!

Continued challenges in Ukraine

Dear brothers and sisters,

So, we are in 2023 now and soon  we will mark a one year anniversary of Russian military aggression while the cruel war continues on our territory. We are not informed about the numbers of casualties, how many killed and wounded the war claims daily. This is a tremendous price we are to pay for our freedom. It seemed that one could have got used to anything with time but it's has not been so with the war with its devastation and death. So many people who are refugees and resetlers come to us looking for help and their number increases. The front lines are constantly changing and people leave their home places looking for safety. We ask for your prayers, we need them so much. Constant  power outages and ongoing mobilization don't let us relax.

The church of Christ in Bela Tserkva.

With all these horrors in the background we keep ministering and got some good results. God opens up people's hearts and the Gospel didn't loose its power. In the beginning of the month  we had a baptism. Oksana from Nikopol decided to let the Lord into her heart. Her family had moved to Bela Tserkva in the summer and they lived in the church   building for about two weeks. Since then they were regular in attendance and the time came when she decided to submit to the great commission.

Every Sunday we have a lot of visitors who come for the grocery care packages. They share the information about the church by the word of the mouth giving us an opportunity to spread the Gospel among the unbelievers every Sunday.

The other news is that my family and some church members went to the winter retreat in Lviv. It was such an encouragement for us. We are very grateful to the congregation in Lviv and our brothers from the States (Walter and Chris) who raised funds for the event.

Bear Valley Bible Institute Ukraine

The classes at the Bible Institute resumed in the middle of January. The students had Homiletics II  (with Dennis Sopelnik), The Religions of the World (with Albert Bagdasarian) and Romans (A. Rodichev). And the happiest event of the month of January was the wedding of our student Viacheslav Shmakov. He married Margarita, his girlfriend of  many years, who was baptized last summer. Now they are the man and his wife. There wasn't a big celebration. They wanted to save up and have something fancier in the spring. We helped them to rent an apartment so they would have a place of their own. With all the dreadful stuff that's going on God keeps us safe and gives us beautiful moments.

We are so appreciative of your help and your love for us. We are very grateful for the funds that allow our students to stay in school and get Biblical education.

Your brother,

Dennis Sopelnik

A new class of students in Malawi

Bear Valley Bible Institute

Ekwendeni – Malawi

February, 2023 Report

Introduction

Greetings from Malawi, the warm heart of Africa! It is a gain with great joy to share the good news accomplished in the month of February, 2023. Visitors after visitors. Last month we had our President visiting us, and this month of February, visitors again from America. We thank God for blessing us with such brothers in the brotherhood from outside Malawi.

We are excited to see students back to school again. We enrolled 30 students but because of some challenges during this time of the year only 21 managed to report for school. The exciting news is that the new congregation has been established at the school campus! Already many are willing to be baptized. Praise God!

Short course Teacher

After being visited by Dr Denny Petrillo in January, we received 2 more American brothers Charles G Ching and Chad Scott. The two brothers arrived on the 4th of February and went back on the 11th of February, 2023. Charles G Ching used to be my WBS helper/Teacher in the late 1990s. Chad is a brother in Christ as well as a nurse. Their visit was great as we were helped in both ways in our community. Chad was at Kaweche Health Centre while Charles was teaching our students “Bible Geography”. We thank God for them and wish them to come again. So far we have taught Writing skills, Bible Geography, Homiletics and now the book of Acts in session.

Church Established – School Campus

The school is at a distance of about 7km to the next meeting place and between us there is Thukutu River which is a big thing this time of the rains. Because of this we allowed students to start preaching within the villages around the school and many have promised to be baptized soon. This has made us start worshiping at the campus and last Sunday the attendance was 24. We hope the number keep adding  soon.

We are always thankful for the partnership between BV international and the Hillcrest church of Christ, this partnership has made a lot to be accomplished within a short period of time. Working together as a team always brings in positive results. Together we can! Many souls are lost out there and let us join hands to conquer Satan. Eternity Is Forever, Think Souls!

Yours fellow servants of the Lord,

Ephron and Clergynton

Big challenges in Nigeria

FEBRUARY 2023 FIELD REPORT

Beloved in Christ Jesus,

Grace, Peace and Mercy be multiplied unto you all from God our Father and from Jesus Christ, our Lord and Redeemer. Here is the summary of our activities for the month of February 2023.

REPORT FROM SOME OF VOTI RECEPIENTS: 

Bro. Matthew Rowland, one of the WBSFUW in Ondo State as well as an instructor at BVBIN- Ondo State reported the conversion of five souls through the use of VOTI Vol 115 during their weekend outreach in and outside Akure City .

Bro. John Ehimiyein of Benin City, Edo State reported that the 500 booklets was shared to churches of Christ in and outside Benin City in January and February 2023.

Bro. M.B. Archibong reported the conversion of seven souls at Atan Odot and Odukpani village of Akwa-Ibom State during their February 3-5 WBS Seminar.

WEEKEND EVANGELISM/OUTREACH:

In spite of the scarcity of fuel and introduction of the new naira notes which has caused hardship for many Nigerians, our students and staff still endeavored to carry out the weekend Evangelism outreach in eleven different centers that led to the conversion of five souls and restoration of a family of four in the month of February 2023.

NAIRA SWAP IN NIGERIA:

From the commercial nerve center of the country, Lagos to the oil rich City- Port Harcourt in Rivers State and back to Kano State, it has been a frustrating story as we Nigerians masses suffer untold hardship to access cash to sort out our daily needs. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)trickly besieged Nigerian to deposit their old currencies (N200; N500; N1,000) to Bank before January 30, they later announced the extension of the deadline to February 10,2023.

The sad things is that, after we masses had deposited our old currencies in the Bank with the hope that our various Banks will begin to give us the new naira notes, it has been a great disappointment as the Banks have failed to do the needful.

In fact, many Nigerians on daily basis will report to their different banks as early as 4:00am in the morning just to queue to get number for the new notes from the ATMs as directed by the CBN but rather than getting the maximum daily withdrawal of N20,000 , few will get N5,000 and those in the banking hall will get N1,000 new naira note or N3,000 dirty N50 or N100 notes while many will go home empty handed after spending a whole day in the banks. WHAT A GREAT MESS !

ABOUT A STUDENT:

Bro. Mamuwomi Agbara - Oluwa is one of our year-1- Students. Admitted into our ministerial department in year 2021. Born at Igbokoda town in Ondo waterside, Igbobini Ese-Odo Local Government Area of Ondo State. Became a member of the Lord's Church on August 6,2019. He is learning Electrical engineer as his vocational study. His mission is to become one of the gospel ministers of God in the rivers sides of Nigeria in the near future.

ACCOMPLISHMENT:

With God on our side coupled with financial supports from Diane & .Doug Wheeler , Dorman & Donna  Lough and Bro. & Sister  Bill Pennell, the school was able to complete the renovation of Doug Wheeler's Events Hall, Administrative block and the Director's apartment in Butubutu Village, Ibadan.

Conclusion: We thank you all for your partnership with love. May the Lord continue to bless all you do for His name is our fervent prayers.

Sincerely yours in His Grace as a servant,

Makinde Ebens (The Chief servant of BVBIN & SWSE-Ibadan And WBSFUW)

Evangelism in Arusha

A.C.S.O.P  Weekly Update

FEBRUARY, 24th, 2023.

 ACSOP EVANGELISM PROGRAM      

Let me hand to you a little summary of what has happened this week on evangelism matters. As some 0f you might know the ACSO has being used in community and surrounding churches as evangelism tools. Many souls have been added to Christ through the efforts made from the team of ACSOP. The ACSOP evangelism team is made up from the students, faculty members, school staff and some evangelists. As you may remember the school is training its students to become effective preachers, evangelists and good teachers in Christian community. Always it should be known that our Lord Jesus taught his disciples that they may teach others also. Likewise, apostle Paul did the same thing to Timothy, and managed to reach world through teaching others. (And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. 3 You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. 4 No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier. 5 And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. 6 The hardworking farmer must be first to partake of the crops. 7 Consider what I say, and may the Lord give you understanding in all things. 2 Timothy 2:2-7)   

Last Monday the ACSOP was able to meet all ministers from surrounding congregations to discuss new plan to use ACSOP well for evangelism efforts. And the new plans implemented is having campaigns to every one congregation every moth. This will be implemented on weekends due to limitation of time and funds. Every preacher was happy with the fact that every church need help. Everyone wished that if the school had enough funds this could be done for every weekend. Including four ACSOP faculty, twenty-five preachers attended in that meeting.

This was a great chance for the preachers to be involved in the plans of ACSOP. Every preacher was happy and see that is important to the school decisions on evangelism plans. One of the old preachers said, the school is  taking step ahead and he suggested that this kind of meting should be done at least once a year to evaluate the campaigns conducted.

Please in your daily prayers remember us and this work,  thank you very much for reading and supporting this work.

In His Work.

Ahimidiwe Kimaro

 Director, Andrew Connally School of Preaching

A Bear Valley Bible Institute of Denver extension school

Arusha, Tanzania

West Coast, Ghana school continues learning and evangelizing

OPERATIONAL REPORT FOR JANUARY, 2023

 CLASSROOM WORK

Eight new students have been admitted to the school and there are four continuing students making the total number of full-time students twelve. The new academic year for the full-time students started on 16th January, 2023 which was a Monday and will continue until 21st April 2023.

Part-time classes resumed on 13th January, 2023 which was a Friday. Two new students joined the part-time class in January taking their total number to ten.

We are working hard to get additional students in as the term unfolds.

Courses for the first year first term includes: Research and Writing, Hermeneutics 1, Homiletics 1, Life of Christ 1, Christian Evidences, Personal Evangelism 1, and the Epistle of James.

Part-time students are studying Old Testament -4 (Major Prophets), Pastoral epistles and Leadership.

PERSONAL EVANGELISM AND BAPTISM

Last year was a good year in terms of evangelism as the word of salvation was preached by our students past and current to many people across the country.

This year has picked up right from where it ended in terms of evangelism. Our students have started propagating the seed from the very beginning of the year. 

Thank you,

Joshua.

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