Training Preachers in Lagos

SABO ONIBA/LAGOS ISLAND CENTERS REPORT May – July 2023.

INTRODUCTION: It is with great pleasure that I Am writing the thank all who in one way or another other participated in making the project of having a school in Lagos Island (Obalende) Lagos. The area is the new Lagos. The goal from the beginning was to help those who are teachers and church leaders attend Bible program to sharpen their biblical understanding. We have seen that the bustling and hustling of Lagos is not allowing that to happen. However, we are still having those who are committed to the work. Island School will be graduating the first set of students before the end of this year. Thanks to God for leading all of those who went to Port Harcourt, River State for the 2023 Great Workshop. The highest gathering of Preachers and church leaders in Africa. It was a great fellowship and learning.  

ACADEMIC ACTIVITIES IN SABO-ONIBA/LAGOS ISLAND: In Sabo-Oniba, we had two new students who just joined the class two months ago. Akanimoh Archibong to the students in Christian Evidences class in the month of April and Ilori Gbenga taught 1 Corinthians in the month of June while Okoro Chinyere Hermeneutics (Introduction) class in July. The students are excited to take their classes even in the midst of economic challenges facing our dear country Nigeria. Lagos Island took the book of Hebrews, Church History, and Life of Christ 4 in the month of May, June, and July respectively.

CAMPAIGN PROGRAM/MARKET EVANGELISM: We thank God that we are found worthy to be used for reaching out to prospects in the month of July. 25 students from both schools and 2 Instructors went for the campaign where 30 prospects were reached. We hope the local congregation will continue to follow up the studies to a conclusive end.

CONCLUSION: Even though there are challenges in present-day Nigeria: from the swapping of old currency to new one, we moved to election and now fuel price hick, the work is still going on. It is no longer easy for students to attend classes, however, the number is still encouraging.  Without the constant support we've received, BV Lagos Island and Sabo would not have gotten this far. Please accept our heartfilled gratitude for your honest, spiritual, financial, and material assistance. We are eternally grateful to each and every one of you. The main gratitude belongs to God.

Thanks and God bless you all.

TIM IWE (Self-Made Slave for Christ)

Sabo Oniba/Lagos Island Center Director

Graduation in India

To God Be the Glory’ what a blessing it is to see the successful completion of the first Batch of Students’ 2 years Preachers Training  program. It was a wonderful beginning in the year 2019 under the Directorship of Brother Muppidi Samuel Raju; since the covid-19 havoc attacked our country it disturbed the school year after a gap we have gradually picked up, however we have encountered another horrifying situation which is the death of our Director.  After the passing away of this dreadful year, we have been able to pull up our sock and complete our mission. We are very much thankful to God for His love and to the brethren for their kind support; ultimately God made us Victorious by which we are able to send out 12 Graduates to Preach.

Gospel Tools for the New Graduates:

Our Trained Preachers are ready for the Lord’s work in a great enthusiasm. The work includes establishing new congregations and some working with established congregations. We are not able to provide any financial support to the equipped soldiers of Christ, but with our capacity we are able to provide a Bicycle, Rechargeable Mega Phone, Study Bibles [Eng,Telugu] and some literature for library

Our Passion for Training Men to be Evangelists locally compels to provide the best of Practical Training. Our preaching school is knownfor best practical education which is helping us to produce the effective Evangelists in to the Lord’s Ministry.

Library is an asset for any individual, especially its an Asset to a preaching school. We are blessed to have library at Bikkavolu Bible College, we are very much honored to dedicated this Library in Memory of our beloved brother Keith Ball who was a missionary to India, lived a faithful life by dedicating his time and efforts to spread the Good News in the nation of India, especially in Southern India. We are thankful to brother Keith Ball’s family especially his wife for their charity in renovating the school facility also the Library.  Brother Keith Kasarjian blessed this occasion by cutting the ribbon for the entrance of Library as dedication

The Reaffirmation of the Truth’ indeed required for the Church in India. The gradual dimension of the Doctrinal Standard is the emerging fear for the Church . We have been motivated to come up with some very important topic based on this line of stating that ‘Thy Word is Truth’. Speakers of the Lectureship have done wonderful job of presenting 14 lessons such as, “what is Truth”  “Truth Came by Christ” John 1:17 “Rightly divide the word of Truth ” 2 Tim. 2:15,  “Buy the truth and sell it not ”  “same Gospel ” Col.1:5,6;  “The church is pillar and foundation to the Truth  1 Tim. 3:16; ”

Even though it’s the first time conducting the Lectureship since the School Preaching School established, had a good attendance of preachers and church members from Andhra Pradesh  Telangana, also several hundreds have watched them on YouTube as it was webcasted.  We really had a good start, had earned a good experience, so our goal is to set this as a Annual Lectureship Event

We are pleased to be remarked highly for subject that was discussed widely during this two days of lectureship, we are thankful God and to the speakers. The fear awakens us to raise up and speak up the Truth and look up for His guidance.

Great things happening in Nigeria

Dear fellow servants of God,

Grace and peace be multiplied unto you all from God our Father and from Christ Jesus our Lord and Redeemer. Here is the report of some of our activities for the month of July 2023.

OVERVIEW

I - Igarra, Omu-Aran, and Idofin-Ayekale trip. 

II - Report From Students' Practicum 

III - BVBIN & SWSE-IBADAN Entrance Examination and Interview. 

IV - SWKA Pupils - End of Session Examination.

IGARRA, OMU-ARAN, AND IDOFIN-AYEKALE TRIP:

"And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch, Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God." - Acts 14:21-22.

With this in mind, we (Bro. Makinde Ebens & Bro. Eniafe Kayode) embarked on a week-long visit to Igarra in Edo State to pay a visit to the wife of one of us who received his last Degree (RIP) on August 2022. We also visited one of our graduates ministering in that part of the country on July 5. We later moved to Omu-Aran in Kwara State and Idofin-Ayekale, where we worked with one of our students, bro Adeyemo Olusegun, in the company of Bro. Amos Olusegun and Bro. Adeyiwolu Isaac before returning on July 12, 2023.

REPORT FROM STUDENTS IN PRACTICUM (TP):

The report from some of our students in practicum (teaching practice) shows that 18 souls were added to the Lord's church as a result of our students' efforts with the brethren in the congregations where they are serving, along with 25 restorations as of the time of filling this report.

BVBIN & SWSE-IBADAN ENTRANCE EXAMINATION AND INTERVIEW:

The Bear Valley Bible Institute Nigeria and Southwest School of Evangelism Ibadan conducted the entrance examination and interview for new incoming students on July 15 and 22, 2023, in which five (5) students succeeded in the test. This will increase the number of year-1 students to 15 and year-2 to 6. Supplementary examination and interview will come up on August 17 at 6:00 pm, Lord willing.

OUR ACCOMPLISHMENT:

Great is thy faithfulness,

Morning by morning new mercies  I found,

All I have needed thy hands have provided ,

 Great is thy faithfulness, Lord unto me......

With the sale of our former SWSE-IBADAN building at Otunolode in Lagelu Local Government Area, Oyo State, for the sum of 5 million naira in late June, we were able to roof the proposed Chad Wagner Open Hall with a sum of 3.6 million naira. Additionally, we used the remaining money to offset some of the expenses for this capital project. The final stage involves plastering the building, installing sliding windows, iron doors, and completing other finishing works.

ABOUT A STUDENT:

Bro. Ayobami Daniel Salvation is one of our year-2 students. He was born on August 25, 1996, in Ogbe, Akoko-Edo Local Government Area, Edo State. He grew up with the church of Christ in Ileteju Quarters, Ogbe, and got baptized on January 10, 2010. His major reason for coming to BVBIN & SWSE-IBADAN is to improve his knowledge of the Bible and become one of the effective ministers of God within and outside Nigeria.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

I - The Second Batch of BVBIN Degree Students will complete their two years of studies on August 17, 2023, if all things work as scheduled. Lord willing, the Greek class is coming up between August 7-11, and Advanced Homiletics-2 is between August 12-17, 2023. Greek class will be handle by Bro. Isaac Ikperi while Advanced Homiletics-2 will be handle by Bro. Makinde Ebens.

II - The BVBIN & SWSE-IBADAN 21st Annual Bible Lectureship & Graduation is coming up on August 17-19, 2023, Lord willing. This year's Bible Lectureship will center on "Walking in the Spirit of God" (Gal. 5:22-26). Seasoned ministers in Nigeria will be ministering during this year's Bible Lectureship.

GREAT WORKSHOP 2023:

Despite the challenging time in our country, Nigeria due to the removal of fuel subsidies, 451 brethren actively participated in this year's Great Workshop. Through the open-air Bible Lectureship and mass Evangelism on July 26 and 27 respectively, nine souls were added to the body of the Lord within and outside the Rumukrusi area of Port Harcourt. All glory be to God. The next year's Great Workshop is scheduled to be held in Ogoja, Cross River State, Lord’s willing.

This year's Great Workshop was held between July 26-29, 2023, at the Church of Christ, Rumukrusi, Port-Harcourt, Rivers State. The theme of the workshop was "The Mandate of The Master". Our guest speaker, Bro. Chad Wagner, used the occasion to meet with some evangelists and WBSFUW to discuss how to be effective ministers of Christ and His church. Congratulations to our able, capable, competent, dedicated and glorious man, Brother Chad Wagner for the success of this year Great Workshop.

FUEL PRICE INCREASE AGAIN IN NIGERIA:

President Bola Tinubu announced the removal of fuel subsidies in his inaugural speech on May 29, 2023. Following the announcement, fuel then sold nationwide for between N500 and N570 per litre, an over 200 percent increase from the initial price below N200. Now, within two months of the new government, the cost of petrol increased again to N617 per litre at NNPC outlets, and over N617 in most of the filling stations. The hike immediately triggered an increase in transportation fares and prices of goods and services by various percentages. Presently, we, the masses, are being suffocated by all means by the capitalists who are in power. From day one of this new government in our country, Nigeria, the poor have become poorer, and there's not one thing done to favor the living conditions of the suffering Nigerians. In fact, the number of less privileged is increasing daily. May God intervene speedily.

CONCLUSION:

We thank you all for your moral and financial support toward the growth of the Lord's church in Africa, Nigeria in particular. May the wonderful God keep on blessing our work together in Christ Jesus' name, amen.

I remain yours in His grace as a servant,

Makinde Ebenezer Olufemi

(The Chief Servant of BVBIN & SWSE-IBADAN and WBSFUW)

Quarter Break is Being Maximized in Tamale

BEAR VALLEY INSTITUTE OF BIBLICAL STUDIES, TAMALE - GHANA

JUNE 2023 OPERATING REPORT

Some very significant events took place in the month of June, 2023 in the Bear Valley preaching school in Tamale. These events have given us the confidence and hope that great things lie ahead of us as an Institution. We are excited to report them to you so you can move along with us.

BRIEFING ON CAMPUS

All properties of the Institute are well kept and properly monitored and used to the best profit of the school. The compound is well kept as well with all its facilities. The Pajero is doing very well, but needs some small maintenance work. The shocks are weak and need to be changed. The toilet facilities for the three rooms of the staff quarters have been fully completed.

Students are also on break to work on their farming activities, congregations, care for their families and personal issues.

TREES IN THE COMPOUND

We continue to emulate our able coordinator, Kojo Acquah Beenyi in planting profitable trees in the school garden. Some more trees were planted in the month of June, 2023. Trees like coconut, Guava and pawpaw were planted in the garden.

EVANGELISM WORK

We reported in the month of May of the conversion of Brother Emmanuel Yobe Kombat, who was the founder of Jesus Revelation Ministries. With his assistance and that of our director (Daniel Adjei Mensah), and the staff, 13 members of his church have been converted into the Lord’s church. All sign posts of his church have been taken off with plans ahead to convert it into the Lord’s Church. They have also currently taken away instrumental music from their worship and started following the worship pattern of the New Testament Church. Brother Emmanuel has also enrolled fully into the Diploma Course and is doing very well. It is our prayer that all who have relations with him will be converted for Christ.

MOTORCYCLES PURCHASED TO AID EVANGELISTIC WORK

We praise the Lord for the life of Brother Steven Ashcraft and all the faithful men who are backing him to help push the Lord’s work in Ghana, Africa and the World at large. There was great joy in the school as three preachers/evangelists that are products of the school (Samuel Saakuu from Upper West Region, Isaac Akumoliga from Upper East and Simon Egnanpiin from Northern Region) received three brand new motor bicycles to aid their work in the field. All staff of the school were excited with this great gesture made possible by our dear Brother, Steven. The brethren who received these machines could not hide their joy and feelings. With joy, all three of them were very appreciative of the sacrificial work done for them. They were also grateful for being the ones counted worthy of such blessings. Considering the number of preachers who need motors to aid them, they considered themselves privileged to have benefited from the machines.

Brother Daniel Adjei Mensah, the Director, on his part also exhorted them to use the machines effectively to promote Christ and not self. They should see it as a great opportunity and make good use of it. Brother James Legend also admonished them to be ambassadors of Christ and the School through which they have got such a great opportunity. Albert Tamanja Malir, the preacher, on his part complemented them for being counted worthy of such a great blessing. He also reminded them of his days when he was a student in the same school, and made them aware that they were indeed privileged to have such great aid and encouragement from the school through our dear Brother, Steven.

The brothers were indeed grateful to receive the motors. These three Motors that were purchased brought the total number of motors bought to aid evangelists to five (5) in total.

We wish to humbly appreciate Brother Steven for all his efforts towards the work of our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ in Northern Ghana and all other localities in the world that he is doing such things. The Lord Bless him with all he needs to remain a great blessing for the body of Christ, his family and the world.

VISITATION

Brother James Bisong Legend made a journey to the Upper East Region in the month of June, 2023. He visited and worshiped with the Agatusi congregation. He also met with the Bazua and Kpinkpanyoung Congregations respectively. He met with the evangelistic Team to see the way forward for their evangelistic work in the area with the challenge of the Bawku conflict that is on the increase. Several proposals were made that could help the evangelistic work of the Team. Prominent of the proposals was for them to concentrate on areas around Bolga till the situation normalized.  

KPALSI SOUTH CONGREGATION

The local church in Kpalsi South is progressing steadily by the grace of God. We have prepared a small place under the Mango Tree in the church land for the children to have their studies. In the month of June also, two souls were added to the church. We continue to do our part as a church, as the Lord also does His part.

We praise God.

The Lord blesses us all,

Bear Valley, Tamale

Students Gaining Experience in Sierra Leone

ACTIVITY OPERATION REPORT FOR JUNE, 2023

Full Time and the Extended Programs

INTRODUCTION                               

It is the time of the year in Sierra Leone that it rains almost every day. However, the Gospel is to be preached “in season and out of season.” Politically, our country has gone through general elections and we pray that everything gets back to normality so we could continue with the good work of the Lord (though the work has not stopped). The family of the KBVBI sends you greetings and hopes that this report finds you doing well. In the month of June, our extended program continued, our full time students went on a break, and our evangelistic efforts continue. As we give you more details, we please encourage you to keep on reading.   

ACADEMIC ACTIVITIES

While our full time students went on a month long break (June 1-30), the extended students continued with their classes. While students sometimes have holidays, our staff hardly go on holiday. There is much to do.  Please continue to pray for all of us for strength to continue in the ministry.

ASSIGNMENT OF STUDENTS TO SOME CONGREGATIONS TO SERVE AS PREACHERS OVER THE BREAK

In an effort to gain more experience with leading local congregations and strengthening them, some students were sent to lead local congregations outside their localities. The administration has been assigning them to local congregations, but this is the first time they spent one full month at the assigned congregations. The assigned congregations were Swegbwema C of C, Panguma C of C, Borma III, Hangha, Rokel C of C, and Shengema. For the period they stayed with the local congregations, 8 souls were converted combined. To God be the glory! This is a great sacrifice for the Lord on their paths as they were expected to stay till resumption. This helps bolster the congregations and creates an avenue for more conversions.

EVANGELISTIC TEAM REPORT

KOINDU TEAM CONDUCTS A TRAINING SEMINAR

The Koindu Team continues to remain focused on its evangelistic activities. From the 1st – 6th June, 2023, the team conducted an Evangelism Seminar to strengthen the new congregation. Some of the topics covered in this training were: (1) What must I do to be saved? (2) After baptism, what next? (3) Restoring the New Testament church (4) The Work of every Christian. This seminar adds more strength to the congregation. In fact, the new congregation is gradually producing young men who will be able to continue nurturing and edifying the members. The congregation has over the past months been worshipping in the Town court Barry; because of the inconvenience of the place, the church members are planning on building their own booth to be worshipping there. Even though this is a farming season for most people in villages, yet the new congregation continues to grow numerically and spiritually.

FREETOWN TEAM CONTINUES TO STRENGTHEN THE NEW CONGREGATION

The team continues to strengthen and nurture the new congregation that was established in May.  To further equip this new congregation with sound teaching/doctrine of the New Testament church, the Team has scheduled a six days Evangelistic Training Seminar to be conducted from the 11th – 16th July, 2023. This seminar will incorporate the other sister congregations in the Western Area of Freetown and some denominations with the aim of converting them to the church of Christ.

MAGBURAKA TEAM CONDUCTS CONGREGATIONAL SEMINAR

Though has not established a congregation yet, the Magburaka team in the far northern region, led by our graduate, Dodoo Larkoh, conducted an internal seminar for the congregations around the city in order to encourage more brethren to be more involved in the big vision of God to bring more souls to the saving grace of Jesus Christ. This two-day seminar was attended by some of the staff from the school and the Magburaka brethren. The presence of the staff makes more brethren to be zealous for the work of God. We are very thankful to God to be in His service.

CONCLUSION

Thank you dear brethren for patiently going through this report. We continue to appreciate your partnership in all aspects. May the Lord keep us till we meet to share the good news of another report!

Peter Sahr Makundu,

Director,

KBVBIa

Reaching Souls in Cameroon

Dearest in Christ,

Greetings from this far end. We do hope you are doing great. God is blessing us, and we and our families are all going well. It is now summer holidays in Cameroon and many local families have temporarily increased in size because children of brethren come our way to spend the summer holiday.

The past weeks, of the work, have gone well as we were involved in many activities. The Lord has provided the means. We do hope this report meets you in good health and sound in faith.

Our students keep growing in many courses, Biblical and non-Biblical. An example of a non-Biblical course is a class for church music. Minister Tah Lucas does a great job of preparing our preaching students to also be prepared to be good song leaders in their different congregations when they enter their individual works after graduation from school.

The new van has gone a long way to ease our evangelism efforts. We can now move all 20 students to a location for weekend evangelism without any problem. When I drive the van myself, then 21 of us will be able to invade a village. We will be like ants, as we share the gospel to as many as possible before we return sometimes even the same day. It is a great blessing, and we are lovingly, thanking God and the STC family, for such a timely gesture toward us and the work we are doing in the name of the Lord here.

Immediately when we arrive in various locations, we embark on house-to-house evangelism. This method is still very much alive and strong here, as it gives opportunities for the prospects to freely ask questions of personal or general interest concerning their faith. This opens the door for them to become Christians. Some communities are so muddy now that we are in the rainy season now in Cameroon. We are forced at times like this to put on rain boots, so as to make your movement, mess and stress free.

It is always refreshing to go out to other locations for evangelism, lectureships, or workshops. We always meet our graduates there, who are still very active in their respective congregations. Meeting with them, and visiting with them, gives us a picture of the work in the area where they are serving. It is always a time for us to pray with them, and to encourage them to remain steadfast as we know that the field of work and just life in general here is always difficult.

It is a blessing and encouragement to any preacher, when the Lord adds souls to the church as he preaches the gospel and evangelizes communities. It is also encouraging to any preacher, to see young men and women develop, and grow, and start thinking of getting married to build their own families. By doing so, the congregation has a better future. Please keep our brother and friend Jarvis and his girlfriend Georgian in your prayers,  as they walk in love,  potentially resulting in the raising of good Christian children.

APPRECIATIONS

May God bless you for all that you are doing to keep this work functioning. We are very grateful! Thank you so very much for your love for God, His church, His children, and most especially for us here in Cameroon. Please do your best to help us, by sharing our reports with others, who may in turn share them with others in due season.

Thank you very much! Make a great day.

Elangwe and family

By His grace, director of BVBIC-Wotutu

Helping Churches in Ghana

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE, NSAWAM, GHANA

SECOND QUARTER REPORT, 2023

Introduction

Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. The following were our activities for the second quarter of 2023.

Classroom Activities

There were four courses offered this quarter. First, Old Testament 2 (History), which was taught by Emmanuel Odeng Larbi. Second, Research and Academic Writing, which was taught by George Osafo. Third, 1 and 2 Thessalonians, taught by Emmanuel Aidoo and finally, Prison Epistles, also taught by Emmanuel Aidoo.

Evangelism

In the month of June, our students embarked on a month-long community radio preaching campaign at Adoagyiri, Nsawam, as part of their practical training requirements. Each Saturday in the month of June, at dawn, our students preached simultaneously on four community radio platforms (for the first two weeks) and then on three community radio platforms (for the final two weeks). So committed were the students to this assignment that some who had never spent the night on the school’s campus did, so they could involve themselves in this work. We had a woman (a prospect) call one of the groups to thank them for their message on God’s judgment. The impact that was made is seen in the fact that the leaders of the Adoagyiri church of Christ have actually petitioned our students to continue this work for the foreseeable future, with the church taking care of the expenses. We believe that God has been glorified and our students have picked up valuable experience in this regard.

Impact on Congregations

Our students continue to make impact in the various congregations where they serve as preachers and teachers of the gospel of our Lord. I was at hand to oversee the teaching of some of our past students and they did well. Also, what we hear of our current students is nothing but praise. This certainly is due to the sound teaching our students receive at the feet our instructors. Long may this continue.

New Student and Advertisement

This quarter, we admitted a new student by the name of James Ofosu. This is the third student we have admitted this year. The past two graduations have massively reduced our number but with our students having been commissioned to serve as “voices” for the school in their various congregations and an advertisement campaign, organized from time to time on social media (and which has borne fruit), we hope to see an increase in our number over the coming months the Lord willing.

Student Profile

Brother William Danso is the student we are focusing on for this quarter. He was baptized in 2011 and is the preacher for a new church plant at Nyamekye in Accra, a church which he planted. He also works as a metal sprayer to support himself. His zeal for the Lord’s work is evident to all. He is very liberal in his praise of the school as evidenced by this statement about the school: “Among the schools in Ghana that I know of, Bear Valley stands for the truth and is trying very hard to promote it.”

Conclusion

We are grateful for Bear Valley’s assistance during this quarter. We pray God’s blessings in this regard. And brethren, please continue to pray for us.

Lectureship in Warri, Nigeria

REPORT OF THE BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE – WARRI CENTERS

APRIL –JUNE 2023 

It is another opportunity for the school to express her immeasurable joy experienced in the service of the kingdom. The quarterly Bear Valley report constantly affords the opportunity for the various schools to examine what has been done in each quarter. It gives a glimpse into the progress or shows the need for improvement in the work of the kingdom. The Warri centers are greatly thankful to the Bear Valley Family in Denver USA, and all other associates for the constant support.

ACADEMIC ACTIVITIES

DSC CENTER

In April 2023, classes resumed and Solomon Usim introduced the course “Intertestamental Period.” The class was interesting as many of the students looked forward to knowing more about the apocryphal writings, especially as it relates to Judas Maccabees. However, little did they know that the echoes from the intertestamental period were more enriching. Thus, it was interesting to learn that groups like the Pharisees and the Sadducees; the Sanhedrin; Feast of Dedication; and so on, did not originate in the Old Testament but grew out of the intertestamental period. A total of seventeen (17) students sat for the exams.

Moreover, in May, Meredith Owvromoh exposed “Prison Epistles” to the students. Prison Epistle, are four books of the New Testament (Colossians, Ephesians, Philippians and Philemon), written by apostle Paul while in prison in Rome. Besides the book of Philemon that was written to an individual, the rest were written to congregations to correct, warn and exhort brethren to be better followers of Christ. A total of 16 people attended.

Finally, in June, Solomon Usim discussed “Building Bridges in Marriage.” The lesson helped the students to understand the various covenants, pillar killers in marriage and how to organize a marriage seminar for couples. A total of 20 students sat for the exams.

PTI CENTER

The PTI Center resumed activities in April and Godwin Ojocheogwu exposed the Book of Romans. The book Romans insists that all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. Thus, the remedy for sin lies in justification by faith in Christ Jesus and not by the works of the law. A total of 12 people sat for the exams.

In May, Abiola Vincent had the course on I, II Timothy and Titus with the PTI students. The course was focused on Paul’s instruction to Timothy and Titus on how to build and sustain a good ministry work. The course gave proper direction on how to institute biblical leadership in the church of Christ. A total of ten (10) students sat for the exams.

Lastly, in June, Godwin Ojochegwu, took the students on the Epistle to the Galatians. The discussion centered on Christian and justification by faith and not by the works of the law. A total of 12 students sat for the exams.

CHALLENGES

The quarter experienced a bit of relief from the effects of the political situation in Nigeria. The elections ended and the new government came into power. However, the new government in power has constantly increased the fuel pump price. This has affected some of the students adversely, especially those coming from afar. Some well-to-do students have continued to support the transportation of preachers, who are working hard to see themselves through the studies. Thus, attendances have continued to fluctuate.

Secondly, for sometimes now the school has had challenges with the computer system. The director, Solomon Usim, since inception, has used his personal computer in computing the school results. Unfortunately, the computer got bad and the school made a request to Keith Kasarjian, President-BVBID Extension Program. This request was graciously answered. The school has been able to purchase a laptop and a three-in -one printer at the cost of 600 dollars. This has alleviated the difficulty. The school management here is thankful for the prompt response.

BREAKDOWN OF THE FIRST QUARTER’S EVENTS

1.     Number of Students- forty-seven (47) twenty (20) at PTI and Twenty-Seven (27) at DSC.

2.     Number of Campaigns held by students/teachers this quarter- one (Non).

3.     Number of Baptisms from Evangelical work by students/teachers reported this quarter (14).

4.     Number of New Congregations Planted-Non

5.     How many Teachers are in the school? Four (4)

6.     Number of Churches Restored-Non

ANNUAL LECTURESHIP

The Warri Centers of the Bear Valley Bible Institute held her Maiden Annual Bible Lectureship on June 17TH 2023. The lectureship theme was: “Understanding Church Discipline.” The school had observed, and from the reports given by the preachers, who are also students, that they do not understand how church discipline works. The observations showed that some congregations do not allow for church discipline, especially where it relates to disassociation (Disfellowship). Some congregations therefore harbor members who are not legally married to the woman they are living with. In fact, some of these congregations argue that “Credit Marriage” (This is a situation where a young man impregnates a girl and the father of the girl asks them to go and live together until they have money to perform the marital rites. However, where any member of the family dies, the young man is not recognized as an in-law until marriage rites are concluded) is an acceptable marriage. In some other congregations around the area, a disfellowshipped member is allowed to worship and participate in all activities except communion. Some congregations allow disfellowship members to attend church services but sit at the back seat. Such individuals leave when the last “amen” is said. These varying belief systems needed to be addressed. Thus, the reason for the lectureship. The lectureship was a huge success. In fact, over four hundred persons were in attendance. The school provided food, drinks and other logistics. The school plans to be holding such lectureship annually to address issues plaguing churches in the area.

CONCLUSION

It is a great privilege for the school management to be partnering with the Bear Valley Family Denver, USA. The work has been tasking but God has always been of great help. The quarter has been an interesting one with the lectureship and the turnout of events. May our loving father bless all those who are supporting the school. May all the resource persons be blessed as the work progresses in Christ’s name, amen.

Luanshya, Zambia students are using their God-given talents

July, 2023

Report

Introduction

The month of July had been very fruitful in our evangelism and other developmental programs for the School. Teaching Christ to others has indeed made a tremendous impact upon our lives and those around us. As we send this report to you brothers and sisters, we give honor and glory to God our heavenly Father who through His grace and the love fully expressed in Christ has granted us the opportunity to work for Him in His kingdom.

Our hearts have been over warmed with activities at our institute premises; we hosted women of the Copperbelt churches of Christ to shape them for better services in the church. They came in good number about sixty six (66) women were present. This was meant to equip them for better services and training young women in the church.

Three days of Evangelism in Luanshya:

We had a very successful evangelism in Luanshya which resulted in four souls being added to the church. We have had good midweek services at Church of Christ in Mikomfwa which is attracting the community at large. Students are leading in teaching, and taking care of all the activities or acts of worship being done during our midweek service.

We are also doing other work at Mikomfwa as we prepare for the garden and students are putting up a permanent sign post at the same place as seen in a picture attached. This was done after a door-to-door preaching. We are discovering good talents among our students, we have discovered that three of them namely Rodrick, Levy and Ishmael are very good artists and they are leading others in writing on a sign post.

A one day women meeting at BVBI-Zambia

As already mentioned, we invited women of the Copperbelt in the church of Christ for a one day meeting on 29th July 2023. This came as a result of a complaint that women are being neglected in terms of gospel equipment. They came from six districts on the Copperbelt province namely Chingola, Mufulira, Kitwe, Ndola, Kalulushi and Luanshya. They represented eleven congregations and we had a very successful meeting starting from 08:00 A.M to 04:00 P.M and they went back spiritually enriched. We also had recorded five (5) restorations during the meeting.

The women were very excited and called for more such meetings as they were served with good food too by Catherine and Janipher our stuff members at BVBI-Zambia.

Quarterly men’s meeting at BVBI-Zambia

We hosted men as leaders in the local congregations as a district at school premises, we normally have these quarterly meetings in order to strengthen and motivate leaders at a local congregation. We have four congregations in Luanshya district and each congregation is represented by at least four (4) members.

The meeting takes about six (6) hours starting from 10:00 A.M to 04:00 P.M. It was a great meeting where leaders are encouraged and motivated to serve in the church. We have attached the pictures of this meeting below.  

Baptisms:

We would like to announce the addition to the church of Christabel Mwape, Afred Kateti, Otry Mudenda and Justin Chinyemba these where added to the church in the month of July. May these souls continue to walk with Jesus forever they are wonderful addition to the family of God. Please remember them in your prayers.

Restorations:

In addition to the above saved, we have also recorded sixteen restorations of which nine are from Luanshya district, three from Zimba Southern part of Zambia through our Alumni Daniel Kapata. Two from Luapula province through Nicholus Mulubwa and one from Mbala Northern part of Zambia by Reuben Museka.

We pray that one day we may have enough funds to call our Alumni for refresher courses and sharing for the fellowship once again, this has been a call from all our Alumni.     

Another gospel campaign loading

Central province: We have been invited as the Institute by the church in the Central province of Zambia. We are expected to be there on 24th August to 27th August 2023. We are expected to do evangelism with the church there and we are also meeting with men from various churches of Christ in Zambia and if possible from all the ten (10) provinces we have in Zambia. This is going to be another vital experience as we preach Christ.

We anticipate this time to be a great time for our students to interact with the Church at large and we believe it’s a good practical experience for our students to interact with various leaders in the church as we preach.

More good news from Tshala district in D.R Congo

Tshibamba Muyeye one of our prospective students recruited by Joseph Ilunga our Alumni is constantly in touch with us and is working with a congregation which started with three members and now they are ten members. In the picture attached below Tshibamba is wearing a green shirt. We are working on him to attend classes with short courses with us since he is very late in this intake.

In conclusion

Meaningful service to God manifests the presence of Him by the joy that characterizes everything done by His servants. Our hearts’ desire that we serve Him and we need to do that both “in spirit and in truth” to be His Ministers. We are so blessed to be part of the Bear Valley Bible Institute – International and always thankful to Woodland Oaks Church of Christ for financial support and all the encouragement in this noble mission. We pray that God will bless the work that you all are involved in.

This is the right time for God’s Servants to revive the New Testament service to God that kind of service that made sinners fall on their knees and acknowledge the presence of God among the believers. Please stay safe and well.

In His service,

Cephas and Fred

Togo school encouraging preachers to "Wake Up!"

OPERATING  REPORT  BEAR  VALLEY  INSTITUTE  KARA – TOGO

(Second  Quarter 2023)

 INTRODUCTION

Greetings from West Africa. My Family and the churches around Kara send you their greetings. Our Powerful Lord continues to help us in His mission and we continue to achieve great joy by doing this work. This work is not progressing so fast like we wanted, but we are moving forward step-by-step. Your support for this work is giving fruit that constitutes souls we convert to Christ gradually and we are very thankful. We sincerely thank our Lord for your love.

OPERATING  REPORT

1-      Number of the Students : 10

2-      The courses already taught :

a-      Logic : by Kagnon  Luc

b-      Hebrew and The Holy  Spirit :  by Fidele

3-      The courses that will be taught during the third quarter 2023 :

a-      Romans : by Rodrigue

b-      Revelation : by Kagnon  Luc

c-       Denominational doctrine : by Fidele

4-      Instructors’ meeting :

During three months passed, Instructors focused on the practical training of students. They have encouraged students for this practical training. They reminded the students that the work of the Evangelist is seen in his ability to convert souls. They have let them know that practical work is very important. Students were sensitized for practical work in Soumdina Pida. These students were able to convert two (2) people. Overall, the Instructors rejoiced in the effort of these students in practice. Other practical sessions are planned in the future.

 1-    DESCRIPTION OF CONGREGATIONAL ACTIVITIES WORSHIP AND EDIFICATION

a-      Worship and edification :

With the students and other preachers, we continue the edification of local churches. The teaching on the local churches now is titled : “The Mission of the Local Church”. Many began understanding the role that members of the church must play to help the growing digitally and spiritually local church. Our desire is to build strong and mature congregations in the future.

b-      Campaigns :

We have organized two campaigns :                                                                                                                                                 Campaign in Sandate(April 2023) to help the local congregation with door to door work during one(1) week. At the end we have : 2 women baptized ; 04 persons restored.

Campaign in Lama (Mai 2023) to also help the local congregation. At the end we had 3 women baptized and 2 persons restored.

c-      Evangelistic efforts :

With the help of one another evangelist, we  organized the work to help local congregations grow. We work diligently in the villages. The problems encountered in these villages are related to the organization of the Catholic Church and the denomination's influences. But our vision is to do all our effort to implant in each locality the church of Christ.

With the practical training in Soumdina Pida with the students we were able to baptize two persons.

We have organized the local churches leaders training in Kara with the general topic : “Our commitment in the mission of Christ”. Many leaders  participated in this training. Everyone returned home full of joy with a decision to make the mission of Christ successful in northern Togo. To this training, we noted the presence of other evangelists of Kouka.

2-      Seminar :

We organized a seminar for evangelists in June 2023. The topic that allowed the meditation of all was : “Evangelist, Wake up from your Sleep” (Rom. 13 : 11-13) to help each evangelist to become aware of the evangelist work he must do with diligence to expand the Kingdom of Christ.

3-      Radio Program :

We were currently able to meet with the Radio program one of the denominational members with whom we started a Bible study. He is very happy. We need your prayers seriously.

4-      Upcoming Program :

-          August 2023 : Seminar of young people and children

-          September 2023  : Seminar of Men and Women

In Christ,

Fidele

Two new church plants in Nigeria

Report Of Bear Valley Bible Institute Weekend School, Ondo State (April to June, 2023).

Dear brethren,

I am very grateful for the grace of life given to us all. I want express our thanks to our esteemed Bear Valley Bible Institute, Denver, Colorado and the leadership of the church at Bear Valley for their massive support in the spread and training of gospel preachers in Africa, particularly Nigeria! We are grateful and l know the rest of the schools here in Nigeria will continue to appreciate this gesture as well. Thank you.

Evangelism Report: The School in Ondo City center with the assistance of the church in Yaba, Ondo City have established the church of Christ in Oka, Ondo City! Three days of evangelism and open air preaching was organized on April 14 - 16, 2023, with all the students in attendance! All glory, honour and Majesty is returned to God for the grace given for His work. God's worship started on April 16, 2023 with 17 members in attendance. The church at Oka is growing with two more members becoming a member of the church! All our evangelistic activities is geared toward Oka area now! All the instructors and the students were on ground for this work on April evangelism for the School! The church at Oka needs continuous prayers for massive growth.

Also, Gospel Chariot team was invited to Ondo City by the School and the church in order to assist us more on massive evangelism work! The team arrived in Ondo City on the 17th of May, 2023! They spent two weeks with us in Ondo City! We preached open-air in six locations in Ondo City. More than 50 prospects were contacted and gospel engagements are still on with them! We pray and believe our God will harvest their souls for Him, Amen.

Also, in Akure center they are not left out in evangelism fervor. Akure center also through the help of God have established the church at Alade, in Idanre local government area. Evangelism program was organized by the church at Leo with the Bear Valley School as partners in progress on the 31st - 2nd April, 2023! The church at Alade started on the 2nd of April,2023. All the students of Akure study center were present in the gospel exercise! Thereafter, two of our students were sent to assist the church every Sunday after the establishment of the church there! Reports gathered that the church at Alade is growing gradually to the glory of God. Beloved of God, We have established two congregation of the Lord already! Glory be to God Almighty, Amen.

Classroom Activities: In Ondo State, classroom activities were carried out successfully. In April, 2023, Brother Godwin Emmanuel taught "Personal Evangelism". While in Akure center, Brother Victor Fasonu taught "Homiletics -1.

In May, 2023, Brother Victor Fasonu taught "Homiletics -1 in Ondo Center, While Brother Godwin Emmanuel taught "Personal Evangelism in Akure study center.

In June,2023, Brother Victor Fasonu taught "Christian Home in Ondo City center, While in Akure study center, Brother Rowland Matthew taught "New Testament Church - 2 in Akure Center! With all honesty, the students were grateful for the studies so far! 

Brother Sunday Odiagbe is a member of the church at Ayeyemi in Ondo City! He is 48 years old! He is married with kids. He is a humble brother in the church! He is a good and honest Christian. He's learning very fast in God's righteousness more through the school. His aim of studying with Bear Valley Bible Institute is to know the Scriptures with certainty! For him, knowledge of God's word is more important than anything else in the world! I hope he will be become a preacher in the nearest future!

Financial Report: As a school, we are blessed with our needs! All thanks to all our supporters! Thank you, all.

Miscellaneous: We are enjoying God's grace and provision from the School in Denver, Colorado! Thank you for your support! We truly appreciate.

Beloved of God, thank you, brethren, for your help in the work of training sound and Bible based preachers in the 21st Century! We will continue to work with the strength the Lord God Almighty has given! We will not disappoint our God in this assignment and continue to be the best to the glory of God, Amen. 

Fasonu Victor, Coordinator,

Bear Valley Bible, Institute, Ondo City,

Nigeria.

School in Chad starting strong

BEAR VALLEY MOUNDOU-CHAD REPORT- JUNE 2023

INTRODUCTION:

We attribute the fact that we can still write to you at the end of June of the year 2023, to the divine grace of God that is upon us. May this same grace be your portion, in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ!  Below you will find information relating to the activities of BEAR VALLEY MOUNDOU-CHAD. You will find information about our academic, evangelism, and Alumni activities. May the peace of God be with you as you read!

OUR ACADEMIC ACTIVITIES:

We open the information on the academic activities of the Center with a word of thanksgiving. We say a sincere “thank you” to the leaders of Creekside, and to all those who directly or indirectly contribute in helping us in our activities. May God, who is the source of all blessings, return to you a hundredfold! In accordance with the close adherence to our program of academic activities, we have one week left to close our second term with the course, “God's Plan for the Salvation for the World.”  We glorify God for the very smooth running of our activities. We notice that the level of retention of course explanations by our students is progressing well compared to the first term. However, we ask you to continue to pray for these learners, that they can continue to overcome the few challenges they may face. Please pray also for their evangelism internship period and vacation time that lies between July 08 and August 27.

OUR EVANGELISM ACTIVITIES:

As the Lord wills and the leaders propose, evangelism is the priority of our activities as we also recognize that this is the purpose of our Center's existence. The people of our locality are beginning to willingly accept the presence of students and are more willing, allowing our students to share the gospel with them. Thus, the Saturday evangelistic outings have become a very interesting and fulfilling portion of student life. We have even begun to receive visits to the Center by those who are wanting to discuss the Bible. The number of visitors to worship has increased in the past month. There has been one baptism since the beginning of the second quarter. We hope that next quarter will be even better. May the name of God be glorified!

BEAR VALLEY ALUMNI ACTIVITIES (ALUMNI):

Regarding the activities of the former students of the Bear Valley Bible Institute Cameroon – Mbanga who reside in Chad, we have not organized a campaign for a semester. We intend to relaunch our activities in October. The results of our activities in the past years were very satisfactory, especially in the year 2021. Pray that this year will still be the best, especially with the evangelists results.

OUR DIFFICULTIES:

We did not experience any serious difficulties in the second quarter. In terms of health, we are seeing a slight increase in cases of illness. This is normal because we are in the middle of heavy rains and malaria is prominent. We are thankful to God that we have not had any very serious case. God's hand is on us!  We ask you continued prayers for the student evangelism internship which begins on July 8th.

CONCLUSION:

The staff of instructors, the students, the assembly of the Center and I, say thank you for your very strong and momentous partnership.  What a partnership we have that is allowing us to help saves souls in our locality. We have nothing to offer you in return, but we pray to God through Jesus Christ, the one who called you and entrusted you with this noble mission, to grant you good health and all kinds of blessings for the continuation of our mission. Thank you also, for your kindness and understanding. May God bless you all in Jesus Christ!

In Christ,

MADJIBEYE DATOUDJI

Bear Valley Moundou-Chad

Meet Khembo, a student in Malawi

Meet the Mwale Family

Khembo was born in Malawi in a little village called Kasiya. At seven, his parents moved to Zimbabwe which at that time was called Rhodesia. Khembo returned to Malawi with his mother when he was fifteen. He found Malawi very strange, and it was difficult for him to make a living. Due to the hard life, Khembo was not able to go beyond an eighth grade education. Through instruction from his mother, he learned to grow the food they needed to survive. Before coming to school, Khembo farmed 35 acres to provide for his family. At one point, he tried a small business but was not able to keep it working.

Khembo met his first wife in his twenties, and they had five children. In 1996, she died leaving Khembo with the children and hard burden of care and food. In 2000, he married Falesi to whom he is still married. They have six children together. Of the eleven children, eight have married, and the youngest three are still at home in primary school. 

After the death of his first wife, Khembo was baptized in 1997. Khembo believes he has a great responsibility to work for the Lord. He is very thankful to be here at the school and learning as much as he can. At age 64, Khembo is the oldest student. As would be expected, Khembo struggled when the classes began. It had been almost 50 years since he had been in school. However, through hard work and a determined mind, Khembo has been able to do very well. 

Falesi has been a tremendous asset to the student body. In addition to caring for her own children, she is the campus “grandma”. If the other mothers need to leave campus for food, she is more than willing to watch their children with the same nurturing heart she has for her own. When a little child gets upset for one reason or another, she is more than willing to hold and wipe the tears away. 

A Dedicated Group

At this point in the program, we are over half way through the classes. Even though the schedule is very rigorous and the classes are getting harder, all the students are keeping their noses to the grindstone. The students will have a longer break at the end of July, and then they will return for the last 16 classes. Please pray for these families to continue to stay focused and finish strong. 

Dale Kastner

Entire congregations restored in Kenya

Dear Brethren,

We have resumed classes from July 3rd to  August 25th, 2023. The teachers we have are 6 in number, three regular ones: (Charles, Nixon and Elias) and three American short course instructors (Rowand, Ray and Dr. Reese). These teach 7 courses: (1 Samuel -2 Chronicles, Church Planting, The Gospel of Luke, Ezra -Esther, Leadership, Marriage and the Gospel of John). Students are twenty in number.

This is  K.S.O.P current students  report for June holiday. We rejoice to inform the brethren of good news about 4 local congregations that have been restored by our current students during the holiday. In June 16-18 this year, six students namely Caleb, Nicholas, Dominic, Daniel, David and Emmanuel attended a gospel meeting in response to an invitation extended them by the host congregation in Kericho county. This meeting included 5 different churches that had turned unsound for many years more so because of lack of knowledgeable preachers and elders. The six were given a chance to teach and answer questions in the areas where these congregations had difficulties, which problems revolved around  worship and leadership: hand clapping, use of instruments of music in praising God (drums specifically), solos and choirs and women teaching or preaching in the churches. The students out of love, taught and answered the questions given them in a very clear and understandable style that most of those who were present were convinced and challenged. Preachers and elders from four out of the five congregations that attended the meeting responded positively, confessed to have led many astray. To the student's surprise, one elderly man from the host church brought out two drums which he himself had introduced and used in the church. On that Sunday of June 18th, all  hand clapping and drums were done away with and worship was done in spirit and in truth.

On July 6th, a group of eight older men, all the way from the 4 restored congregations in Kericho county, visited KSOP.  They said that they have heard for the first, about Kenya School of Preaching from these current students. They came to see if surely such a school exists and the  teachers. The delegates were grateful for the training that goes on here. They themselves declared to us how the six students had spoken graciously and convincingly to them in the meeting. They also requested that the school spare them a chance in next intake, for their 3 or 4 approved and recommended preachers from the restored churches. 

They were thankful to have met the very students as well. They wondered at what makes the difference between KSOP and other preaching schools in Kenya. Charles and I took a picture with the eight as is shown in a photo of ten above. 

Without doubt, if there is any community of people with many established congregations of the Lord in Kenya, it is the Kalenjin community (in the former Rift Valley Province). The problem is that there are some, not all, unsound churches. Our prayer and effort is for their restoration and these students have begun it even before they are through with their studies here. This encourages us greatly.

Other students in other communities also gave good reports from their work in 20 congregations where they served during the holiday.  They baptized 11 people into Christ and restored 9 individual backsliders to church fellowship. Below are sample of pictures  of baptisms by the students and that of the visiting brethren from the 4 restored congregations in Kericho county.

 May all be blessed!

Your brother, Elias Omollo.

New school in Accra is doing well

Bear Valley Bible Institute International, Accra East

Second Quarter Reports - 2023

Courses taken

The first quarter started on the Friday 07th April 2023 and ends on Friday 30th June, 2023. The following are the courses taken within this quarter:

·        1 Corinthians

·        Evangelism II (Church Planting)

·        Prison Epistles

·        The Book of Acts

Report on the students

The attendance was stable in this second quarter. The average attendance was nine (9). The commitment level was very high.. 

House to House Evangelism  

Apart from the first quarter Evangelism campaign which took place on 04th and 05th March, 2023 at Gomoa Asebu, the School has not taken any major Evangelism campaign in the second quarter. However, as usual the students have been going to Gomoa Asebu on rotational bases to support in evangelism and edification. Nmai Djorn church has been the major supporter of the school’s evangelism campaign because both two churches Santor and Gomoa Asebu were planted by Nmai Djorn church. However, because currently the church building the meeting place for the brethren at Gomoa Asebu and at the same time constructing a small mission house for my residence, this has brought pressure on the church’s finances. So has become necessary for the school to assist in the sponsoring the students to carry on the house to house evangelism and edification on rotational bases at Gomoa Asebu.  

Three baptisms were recorded by the students, John Achie-Quophy, Boi church of Christ and Moses Antobam, Santor church of Christ. John Achie baptized one person and Moses baptized two.

New church to be planted – July 30, 2023     

The school has prepared to undertake its first church planting this year in July 30, 2023. In the beginning it was only one place that we did the feasibility studies, which was Gomoa Pomadze. But while preparing the students I also went to Breku in the Central Region. Bro. Isaac Amo, a student doing his Master’s degree at Bear Valley Bible Institute,Accra is staying in that community. His picture is attached. Upon his invitation I went to see the place on the 20th June, 2023. He pleaded with me that since Pomadze meeting place and the student going to assign to take care of the new church are not ready we should shift to his place first if it could be possible. I went to his place and we did feasibility studies and indeed the place is ripe and it is also a fertile ground for church planting. They are Akan speaking community and very much populated than Gomoa Pomadze. 

According to him he will be available to take care of the church. He is also staying in his own residence. A Christian brother staying in that community has also promised to offer us his big hall to use it for the meeting place till the church acquire her own land. I have promised him to go there next week that is the first week in July to finalize the meeting place. I will communicate with the Co-coordinator Kojo Acquah and the Administrator by next week to give them the final report on our preparation towards the planting of the new church. By next week the exact location will be determined.

We thank God that the students took their course on Evangelism & Church planting this quarter all in preparation towards this year church planting.  

Other information

The regular students’ passport pictures have been neatly designed and delivered to the administrator to process for the acquisition of student ID cards.

Big plans in Accra

End of June Report, Accra

Glory be to God for a successful ending. Through His providence, all activities went on successfully, none of the instructors experienced ailment, and everyone is doing well and kicking. Also, we are grateful for all your support throughout the quarter.

Classes & Vacation

Classes went on successfully as the following courses were taught: The Book of Romans, Christian Leadership, 1 &2 Peter, Old Testament 5, Intertestament, The Book of James, Computing, and Communication skill, with all examinations conducted. The school vacated on 11th June 2023 and resumed on 2 July 2023 respectively.

Bachelor’s programme

Currently, we have two (2) batches pursuing the programme i.e. Bachelor One (1) and Bachelor Two (2). The second batch met on the 16th and 17th of June and studied Advanced Hermeneutics One (1) by Brother Emmanuel Amoo-Gyimah. The class was very interesting enlightening everyone, on the way of interpretation.

On 22nd June, the first batch also met to study Advanced Hermeneutics Two (2) by Emmanuel Amoo-Gyimah.

Campaign Plan

In our previous report, we reported about the campaign held at Twerebo and Botokora. The next plan is to revisit the towns once again to check on the impact of the gospel preached. We shall also focus on the other two towns closer to the school site thus Duaeden and Paanor. It is our greatest hope that our visit to these towns will yield fruit for the Lord.

We are also planning to have information centers built in these towns to facilitate our preaching programme.

Bear Valley Top Radio Programme

We are much impressed to have you updated on the wonderful works of God. Our listeners keep calling even when on campus and in our homes. Others also come in to request the audio to listen once again. We also added books such as Voice of the Truth with our stamp and contact, to be shared freely with anyone who is interested to read out the truth. Through these calls, some prospects have received counseling regarding the load of frustrations and challenges on their neck. Through this counseling, a man who planned suicide due to massive challenges has repented. This depicts that many love and appreciate the truth. We always pray that our radio programme will convert more souls in various places to the glory of God.

We plead with you to keep remembering us in your prayers.

Talk With Our Past Students

As part of the school’s planning activities, the staff has been meeting to find a day in November 2023 to meet with all students for the purpose to strengthen them to hold firm the doctrine of Christ which they received during their schooling. As we know that our Lord is well pleased when we keep to His instructions.

At this time, Brother Keith will be passing by and will stop over to speak more of the way of Christ and the rules of Bear Valley in America before leaving for other countries. We are looking forward to his safe arrival.

We hope the Lord will bring our brother safely to Ghana and we are praying that this programme will be successful and yield good fruits.

Reaching Souls outside of Accra

KOFORIDUA EXTENSION SCHOOL

REPORTS FOR SECOND QUARTER (APRIL – JUNE)

Prologue

Thanks be to God for seeing us through another quarter of learning and other activities.

Students

Two additional students have been added to the class. They are Agbogbo Mensah Kwaku and a lady named Priscilla Bay. The students’ population is now seventeen (17).

Courses

Three courses have been taught. They are congregational development by Kwabena Gyan-Mante, Bible Geography by Paul Larbi Young and Minor Prophets by Kwabena Gyan-Mante.

Students Activities

Students continue to play active roles in their various congregations that they worship as they teach and preach. One Ahiaba Agbenyegah to mark the tenth year of the church that he is working with establishment with the theme, “Ten years, what next?”

Plans Ahead

On July 23rd, Lord’s willing, students are going to visit eight congregations around to advertise for students. Then from September 26th – 30th we will be at a small to preach publicly. After that will be for an establishment if the Lord will in November when all underground is completed, we need your prayers.

Additional tables and chairs

Two tables and chairs have been bought for the use of our two new students.

Library

A shelf has been built with some few books from Bro. Kwabena Gyan-Mante’s library. We are waiting for books to fill it to help the students with their learning.

Conclusion

Once again, we continue to be grateful for your support. We pray together we could bring many to the Lord’s Kingdom for salvation.

208 bibles studies in Nigeria

With a thankful heart to God Almighty the maker of the entire universe,  I wish to once again profoundly appreciate the entire family of Bear Valley School for prayer and support we continue to receive. This has grossly enabled us to carry out our class activities, evangelism, teaching and preaching every week in our various congregations here in Taraba -Nigeria.

In the past three months, (April - June), brother Aorabee Terkule, Sr taught Leadership in the local congregation and Christian Ethics, while I, Elkanah Itom Madaki, taught Church History. Funds for the months were received and properly used.

Apart from our normal door to door evangelism, we had an intensive Campaign for Christ in the city of Yola in the neighboring Adamawa State. The three churches of Christ that meet in different locations within the city were fully involved.

In total, we were able to conduct two hundred and eight bible studies involving three hundred and seventy people. Seven souls were united with Christ through water baptism, eleven souls were reunited with Christ and one congregation restored.

I am glad to also inform you that one of our instructors (Egbwakoteh Bala ) got married on the 18 April 2023).

Yours in Christ, 

Elkanah Itom Madaki 

Special efforts in Cambodia

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 was happening at IBISR’s school in Siem Reap Cambodia during June 2023. We would like to thank you for taking the time to read this report and look at these recent photos.

Adding to the Family!
We were full of much joy that we saw three souls put into Christ by being baptized! It is always such happiness to see souls added to our family. All of them are from Siem Reap Church of Christ. Two of them are a couple and they have a son.  Please pray for these new babies in Christ so that they may grow in the image of His son Jesus Christ.

Short course:
Brother Wes Autrey taught I, II Timothy, and Titus which has helped our students very much as we are young Christians and young preachers.
We are so pleased to brief you on the short course in those books. We spent time together for two weeks in the classroom. In class, we have a lot of fun and study together. The students very much enjoyed the class. We were pleased with how the 15 students from Battambang and 12 students from Siem Reap joined together both virtually and physically in sacrificed their time to make that course finished successfully.

Lady Bug Camp:
Christian camp in Cambodia was attended by the students, staff of our institution, and including the ladies from Siem Reap and Battambang Church of Christ members. In that camp, we had 43 female participants who are Cambodian Christians from different regions. What a beautiful day for Christian ladies in Cambodia. It is a very great time for ladies to spend time studying God’s words and having fun together for two nights and three days without men. We are thankful to Wes Autrey and his wife Teri for their big love for us in Cambodia. 

Prayer:
We always need your prayers for encouragement. Remember our new brothers and sisters in Christ who just got baptized into Christ.  And also remember (Mai) one of our students in IBISR’s Bible school just lost his grandma one week ago.

Servants of Christ.
Piseth Rin and Darat Run.
Co-Directors IBISR

Evangelism in Enugu

BVBI ENUGU STUDY CENTRE - NIGERIA

April to June 2023 Report

The second quarter of 2023 ended with 9 students as one of the students dropped due to challenges of the family and economic situations. Also Bro. Nwaba Raphael (One of the Instructors) relocated to Calabar by the month of May 2023, so the centre is left with 2 instructors but 2 persons have been contacted to come for interview for the replacement of Bro. Nwaba Raphael of which hopefully the interview and submission of the necessary documents will be concluded this month of July 2023 so that the new instructor will handle the month of August 2023.

The students went to 2 congregations on different Sundays for campaign in month of June 2023 and will still visit other congregations in this July and August. Please note that their visitations are done on Sundays, therefore their studies are not affected.

From January to June 2023, the students have been able to cover 6 courses in addition to the ones they covered in the past years.

Within the 2nd quarter, the center was seriously involved in evangelisms organized by Akwuke congregation and their efforts are highly felt.

Appreciation/Conclusion

We are grateful to the wonderful coordinators of BVBI outside and within. The financial/material supplies and prayers are highly appreciated; words are not enough to express our heartfelt gratitude to all of you, may God bless and keep you all, may His mercies and steadfastness never depart from us all in Jesus name - Amen.

Thanks and remain blessed.

Bro. Patrick Makwe P.

For BVBI Enugu Study Centre