More courses taught in Peru

A cordial greeting dear brothers,

With great joy we write these lines to you, hoping that everything is going very well in your respective homes as well as in your ministries, peace and the love of God be with each of you.
We have completed two more courses of our study plan, I am referring to Marriage and Family and I of Corinthians, the first course taught by Brother Andres Nuñez and the second by Brother Luis Camacho. Both have done an excellent job and I will share their respective appreciations with you shortly.

I especially want to highlight and thank the support of Brother Luis Camacho for supporting us with the instruction of I Corinthians and for that availability to help that stands out. Thank God for his intervention, I am sure it has resulted in a great blessing for the students.
Here I briefly share the words of each of the instructors:

Luis Camacho on I Corinthians:
“Thank you for the opportunity to teach the I Corinthians course. I know that we had excellent participation during the course with the majority of the students…”.
The following have participated in his class: José Chiuyare, Ethel lapa, Sandra Chalco, Martha Nolasco, Maryuri Alarcon, Jhonely. Six people have benefited from the classes taught.

Andrés Nuñez about the Marriage and Family course:
“It has been very special to make known what the Church believes regarding Marriage, since it is a very important doctrine for the students to know and learn. They assimilated, they learned what the Bible teaches, from Genesis, which is the beginning where every preacher and teacher must go, since our Lord answered the different questions regarding marriage and remarriage. The students asked many questions, which were each answered with the word of God, we saw many biblical examples about marriage, pacts, divorces, failed commitments, disobedience and as such the true marriage that the church teaches as part of a doctrine, that we must be very zealous and not allow false teachings to stain the sacred marriage established by God.”

The following have participated in his class: Alejandro Manrique, José Chiuyare, Betty Melo, Elias Jorge, Frank Flores, Carolyn Chavez, Víctor Quijandria, Jhonely. Eight people have benefited from this course and the classes taught.

We are about to share two new courses, I am referring to Church History and Leadership. The teachers assigned for these courses are Abraham Alata and myself (Juan Abanto). We are making every preparation to make these next two months as productive and beneficial for students and teachers as the previous months have been.

With these two new courses we are starting a new semester, six months closer to the end of this second round of classes, in which we hope to continue counting on your prayers and support, with God's favor, trusting that He will help us to come to fruition.

May the Lord continue to bless you!!!
Juan Abanto

Community outreach in India

Reporting Letter for the Month of October-2023

Respected director Mr.Keith Kasarjian , our coordinator Mr.Mark Reynolds and all our prayer partners , greetings to you in the matchless name of our lord and savior Jesus Christ. We pray that this reporting letter may serve us to find you well. We are highly delighted to submit this brief report for the month of October-2023.

Report:-

1.Bear Valley Bible Institute:- This is very good platform for the young people to attend and study the word of God.  By the grace of God two batches were completed and went out for the spiritual battle to win the lost  souls. We focus on 2 Timothy 2:2 “ 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”. We request your prayers for this third batch and their success.

2. Field work of the previous students:- We are happy to share about the wonderful work that our BVBI’s previous  students field work. Mr.M.Jesudoss is working hard and planted 2 local churches, Mr.Praveen has planted local church at Bathlapuram-village, Mr.Yovel is working at 2 places, Mr.Ramanapadal is working in tribal area, Mr.T.A.Madhukishore is working at Gajulamanya, Mr.Barnabas is working at two places, Mr.Parusaram is working at two places , Mr.Joseph is working at two places and also other students working at different places. We request your prayers for their church planting ministry.

Preachers meeting:- We have conducted October ‘s preachers meeting at Kondapuram-Village on October 21st.. The local preacher Mr.Peter has organized the meeting and provided food .

Youth camp:-  BVBI-Tirupati has observed the young people among the local congregations who are not able to share the gospel to their friends in colleges and school where they study .  Therefore, we made the decision and conducted two days training camp for the youth camp on October 16 and 17th. We have invited young people from several local churches from urban and rural areas . We had more than 100 young people for the two days training camp . We taught them good lessons and motivated them to proclaim the gospel to their friend who are away from the God . We are happy for share with you that the local preachers and parents also could able to attend for the two days camp.

Bibles distribution:- BVBI-Tirupati-India has indentified young people using mobile phone for the bible reading, we are not against the technology but we encourage young people to read bibles (hard copy). We have purchased 100 bibles and distributed freely to 100 young people who ever attended for the youth camp.

Campaigning:- In the month of October we conducted campaigns in Renigunta town and Ambedkar labour colony. This is wonderful platform for reaching the lost souls as well of students participation.

Blind meeting-Audio Bibles distribution :- We have conducted one blind meeting and distributed audio bibles . They are happy to hear the word of God and grow in their faith.

Universities Campus ministry:- We are happy to report you that there are seven universities have been located in our city, our staff members and some of the students have dedicated to visit universities , colleges, and students hostels and sharing them gospel.

Home Bible studies:- We actively involve in the home bible studies. Families are available at their homes after 6pm. We take appointments an advance and conducting home bible studies in the evening times at several families. We have divided into teams and conducting at several areas in and around the city. We request your prayers for the home bible studies.

Leadership class at Krishnasamudram-Village:- My friend Mr.Jayaraju is working as English teacher at Govt high school , he is  local preacher with this village congregation at Krishansamudram village . They have conducted leadership class in last week and invited preachers from Andhra Pradesh and Tamilnadu .  Myself and other 4 brothers from BVBI –Tirupati –India have attended for the meeting. I have taken lesson from 2 Kings 7th chapter 9th verse . The four leprosy people said that what they were doing was not right , I taught from this portion of the bible and connected the gospel . it is not right to be silent without preaching the gospel. We have encouraged all the leaders to be active in sharing the gospel.

Benevolence:-

HHI -Fruit plants garden Workshop:- In the month of October we have conducted 3days HHI -Fruit plants garden Workshop on 23 ,24 and 25. We have involved village people in this workshop. We are thankful to HHI for the encouragement and partnership for the establishment of this  garden to connect with local community for Christ.

Hearing aids supply:- We have identified one  brother who was suffering from low hearing ability. We have consulted one of the social work Organization and provided hearing Machines for this young boy Mr.Poorna Chandra Prasad. Now he is comfortable in hearing the word of God when they attend for the worship service and other bible classes . He also the machine for listening his lessons in the college.

Providing rental for the blind family:- We could able to assist one blind family for paying their rental.

Widow help:- We encourage our local church to assist widows in the local church, more than 30 widow sisters in the congregation have received small help from the church’s contribution in the month of October-2023.

Sunday after noon lunch:-  some of our members travel from far away villages and attend for the church for Sunday worship service.  In the month of October five Sundays we have provided afternoon lunch . Each Sunday more thank 80 people receive lunch . We appreciate members who dedicated to service the meals.

Leprosy colony children ministry:- We continually visiting two leprosy colonies and working for the welfare of the helpless children . We appointed volunteers who are able to assist them in teaching and feeding them.

Prayer Request:- We pray and plan for organizing the Christian Growth Bible Seminar to be conducted in the month of January-2024. We request your prayers for the safe travel of our guest teacher Mr.Damon Vincent.

We are thankful to BVBI for your dedication and assistance and encouragement for the smooth function of BVBI-Tirupati-India. We treat you as blessing for our country and our people. We need your continual prayers and encouragement. We are ever grateful to you and your partnership in educating young people for eternal life sake.

Thanking you.

Yours brother in Christ.

Vijay&Staff from BVBI-India

A productive quarter break in Chad

May the peace and joy of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you! It is with great pleasure in our hearts that we want to share with you some information about the activities of our center that took place in the month of October 2023. Above all, receive our sincere greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ!  Our greetings also go to the extended family of the Creekside congregation and that of the Bear Valley Bible Institute. The information we want to bring to your attention concerns student internship reports and individual student vacation activities.

These activities are as follows. The third quarter internship period ran from October 7 to 14, 2023. Our students truly supported the assemblies that welcomed them through door-to-door preaching of the Gospel and teachings in church. The overall result of their efforts was five (05) baptisms distributed as follows, one (1) in the BISSIWADOG village, one (1) in Moundou, two in Koumra and one (1) in the Gonogono 2 village. We say congratulations to the trainees. Let us pray for the growth of these saved souls.

In regard to the individual evangelization activities of the students on vacation, let us mention two seminars organized in two villages for the students. These seminars helped save a soul.  May the name of God be glorified!  Hopefully the remaining three weeks will also bear fruit.

Regarding the activities of the Center in the near future, in the last week of December we will have a major Alumni evangelization campaign as well as the Annual Conference of the Church of Christ in Chad which will be held in N'djamena from December 28 to 31. These two events will need the effective presence of our students who will be a force for evangelization. However, we have a lack of adequate means for student transportation. The Alumni Campaign will take place in the locality where two former students of BVBI Cameroon Mbanga work. They are approximately 200 km from the center. N'djamena is 450 km from Moundou where the center is located. Let us pray for the participation of our students in these great moments where their preaching of the gospel of salvation can help win more lost souls.

These, Mr. Coordinator, are the few useful pieces of information to give you on the activities of the BVBI Moundou Chad during the month of October as well as some activities that lie ahead of us. Thank you for your availability to read from us. May God bless you abundantly in Jesus Christ!

In Christ,

Your brother Datoudji!

Moundou  November 2, 2023

Outstanding work in Zambia

October, 2023 Report

Introduction

When Peter tells us in 1 Peter 2:9 that we are special people he also says “that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light” and Paul in 2 Timothy 3:17 after saying that all scriptures is inspired, give a reason for its purpose “that the saints of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work. Warm greetings to you all brothers and sisters!! We always give honor and glory to God who has given us this rare occasion to work in His Kingdom. And we will forever be appreciative to God and to all our partners who have made this to be possible.

Extra work in D.R.C

We have continued to work with Tshibamba – Muyeye Tresor and the month of October continued to be very fruitful in D.R.C Congo as far as evangelism is concerned. We have recorded nine (9) Souls being added to the Kingdom and the Church continues to grow in Katanga province of Congo. Now there is a great demand that we travel to meet these brothers as you see them in the pictures attached below. Keep us in your prayers

We have also reached as far as the region of south Kivu Kinshasa in the village known as Tubondo along to Lake Tanganyika as indicated on the map attached below. 

I.                   Other Activities

A.     Our evangelism in Luanshya District

1.      We have continued to make every effort to reach out to the lost soul with Brother Cephas Mwamba is spearheading the work; the students are motivated as they do personal evangelistic activities. It is very encouraging to see them involved in reaching out to those who desperately need to be saved. They have continued with the target they have given themselves as far as reaching people is concerned. As indicated in our previous communiqué, each student is supposed to speak to at least two (02) people on a daily basis. The thirteen (12) students speak to at least twenty-six (24) people each day. It is indeed worthy noting that at the end of the week these students would have spoken to almost one hundred and fifty-six (154) people. With tenacity and consistency the desired results will be realized. 

B.      Bible Studies

They have also increased the number of houses where they conduct the Bible studies from. Each team consisting of two students have Bible studies twice a week. On Fridays, they have all attend the Bible studies at Brother Zechariah Magawa. Brother Magawa is a former Police command of Luanshya district who was converted through our student’s preaching and now he is such an encouragement to our student preachers.

C.      Baptisms/Restorations

We are very happy to report that the month of October, 2023 has so far recorded a total of seven (7) baptisms in Luanshya District.

We also recorded three (3) restorations 

D.     Copper belt Provincial Youth Conference

We held a youth conference which started on 27th October, 2023 and ended on 29th October, 2023.

Youths from eight districts of the Copper belt Province convened at Church of Christ Wusakile in Kitwe district.

The theme of the conference was “Overcoming the modern challenges of the youths”. Our former students were also invited and did a good job when they presented their lessons. They interacted well with our current student body. We can successfully say we had a good time in the Lord and good experience with the youths on the copper belt Province.

Austin Musonda, Gershom Chansa and Boyd Kalaba all did an excellent work as they worked together in teaching at the conference. We had a very fantastic experience! And at the end of the meeting the following statistics were recorded:

Ø  Total attendance: 284

Ø  Baptisms: 6

Ø  Restorations:    13

Ø  Two of the youths who were present a boy and a girl came and confessed that they were sent to initiate at least ten youths into Satanism, it was very scary experience.

E.      Reports from our alumni             

Reuben Museka: of 2022 graduate has continued to be sound in Mbala district of Northern Province and has given as a good report on his work there and the church. The congregation which started with only three families has now grown to seventeen (17) members. They have continued to meet at a government primary school and they have started to look for a plot where they can begin to build in a traditional land. We keep praying for him to be successful.

Simon khazi: also of 2022 graduate has continued in Lusaka province at Mtendere Congregation where he began a youth class and has so far recorded eleven (11) baptisms within two months. His dedication to work is highly recommended. Simon is also in the school of medicine and we wish him well.

Visiting by Bear Valley Bible Institute Coordinator (Southern Africa)

It is always a great pleasure to have Brother Donnie Estep come and teach at Bear Valley Bible Institute-Zambia. We realize the sacrifices and indeed the commitments he makes to come to us. And for this reason we will forever be grateful to God and to Donnie!

Brother Donnie taught the book of Galatians and our students were very excited to gain the knowledge from the experienced. 

Conclusion

We continue to speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him, who is the head, even Christ, from whom the whole body being fitted and held together. We also continue to Giving special thanks to our supportive family and friends at Woodland Oaks church of Christ. Our hearts are truly thankful to all of you for financial support that you render to the school. We are also grateful to all our other partners in this noble work! May God richly bless you all!!

Because of the Christ,

Cephas and Fred

Excellence in Ghana

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE SCHOOL

CAPE COAST, Ghana

REPORT FOR SECOND QUARTER OF THE YEAR JUNE 2023

PREAMBLE

The second of the year has been a great one. The school in Cape Coast has continued to make tremendous progress as student commitment and enthusiasm has increased. In a bid to ensuring that adequate understanding of the courses are obtained, we have intentionally committed ourselves to spending extra hours with our lecturers when they come in. Classes keep getting exciting and we thank God for making such a wonderful progress.    

OVERVIEW

The school in Cape Coast has gained a lot of grounds in just over a year since the school started. We now have about five lecturers joining our ranks to do a comprehensive tutoring of sound Christian doctrine. Students are always excited to report for the weekend lectures as it gives them a lot to ponder on during the week. Each new course gives us a new discovery of very sound Christian doctrine as we delve into the secrets of the bibles. One of our students, who is a qualified sign language tutor has also arranged with the students to spend an additional hour after the Saturday lectures so that he help the would be evangelists to acquire the arts and science of the sign language. Currently about 21 students are actively learning this new language as they stand a good chance of communicating with the deaf world that may come into contact with. It is really an exciting addition to our programme as it is also patronized by the host church.  

SUPPLY OF RESOURCES

During the quarter under review, the school did not receive any learning resource or material from our Coordinators. Though enough learning resources has been supplied in the past, the new students who joined us at the beginning of the year did not get some. They keep asking and making references to that of their colleagues and as such, I would greatly recommend that whenever materials of any nature are available, the Cape Coast study center should be considered in the distributions. Supply of the Preachers’ Box and the brown leathered Bible should always be available as students have become more accustomed to their use. 

COURSES

As at the end of the second quarter of the year 2023, we have successfully completed the following courses: PERSONAL EVANGELISM 2, HOMILETICS 2, MARRIAGE AND FAMILY.We hope to continue with studies in: HEBREWS AND TITUS

REPORT ON EVANGELISM 

Our evangelism programme successfully took place in the last week of April. Students embarked on HOUSE TO HOUSE programme of which the evening also featured an outdoor broadcast service. Students greatly participated in this programme. The host church also played a great role in terms of participation and also helping to mobilize the necessary resources for this campaign. 

Topics treated during the evening broadcast are:

DIFFERENCES IN THE TESTAMENTS

WHAT MUST I DO TO BE SAVED

THE CHURCH IN THE BIBLE

THE WORSHIP OF THE EARLY CHRISTIANS

HOW WILL THE JUDGEMENT OF GOD BE LIKE?

PROJECTIONS FOR NEXT QUARTER

As a school we have strategized and agreed on some evangelistic missions in the next quarter.  The next plan will be to go into a rural community where the churches established there are no longer functioning. We have tasked ourselves to take care of such churches when it is established so that we can nurture its growth into a matured community of believers. Besides the financial resources that have been made available by our benefactors, we also hope material resources (bible tracts, etc) for such exercises will be made available when the time comes.

REPORT PREPARED BY

DANIEL BIRIKORANG

DIRECTOR

CAPE COAST STUDY CENTER

Student campaigns in Nigeria

Dear, fellow soldiers of Christ.

Grace, peace and mercy be multiplied unto you all from God our Father and from Christ Jesus, our Lord and Redeemer.

Below is the report of some of our activities in the month of October 2023.

OVERVIEW:

1.FIRST SEMESTER CLASSES CONCLUDED

2. ARAMOKO-EKITI, EKITI WBS SEMINAR

3. REPORT FROM FELLOW-MINISTERS

4. CHAD WAGNER’S OPEN HALL READY FOR COMMISSION

5. BVBIN-DEGREE PROGRAM

FIRST SEMESTER CLASSES CONCLUDED

The first semester for the year 2023/2024, which began on August 14, concluded on October 6, 2023. Our year-1 students were sent for different Vocational Studies, while our year-2 students were dispatched to congregations within the Southwestern States of Nigeria to assist in evangelism and the edification of local congregations that requested our help.

Lord willing, the 2nd Semester classes will commence on November 6, 2023, and run through January 24, 2024, with a two-week break from December 16 through December 31, 2023.

 ARAMOKO-EKITI WORLD BIBLE SCHOOL SEMINAR/ REVIVAL 

In continuation of the four WBS Seminars sponsored by Rob and Robin Thornton, five of the BVBIN & SWSE-Ibadan instructors, named Bro. Israel Tajmavwo, Bro. Odeyemi Durojaiye, Bro. Oladokun Samuel, Bro. Eniafe Kayode, and myself (Bro. Makinde Ebens), along with the company of five of our year-2 students and two WBSFUW members (Bro. Shotola Dele and Bro. Adedoyin Sola Rotimi), conducted a three-day WBS Seminar in Aramoko-Ekiti, Ekiti State from October 19 through October 22, 2023.

The three-day seminar featured Mass Evangelism from 8:30 am to 1:00 pm and Open-Air Bible Lectureships from 4:30 pm to 7:00 pm daily. Some of us stayed behind after the Saturday Open-Air Bible Lectureship to worship with the church in Aramoko-Ekiti.

Other Ministers/WBSFUW members who attended the event were Bro. Emmanuel Godwin, Bro. Amos Olusegun, Bro. Adeyiwolu Isaac, Bro. Akinola Lawanson, Bro. Akinyemi Jacob, and Bro. Ajibade Oluwansola.

Even though there were no conversions, we give thanks to the Lord that a couple who had left the church a year ago returned with their four children. Our final scheduled event is coming up on November 10 through 12, 2023, in Asejire, Osun State.

THIRD BATCH OF BVBIN DEGREE PROGRAM

The 3rd batch of our degree program will commence Lord’s willing on November 27 through December 8,2023 with Research and Writing-1 and Fundamentals of Faith -1.

Hopefuly , eight of the successful students in the 2nd batch will be graduating during our 21st Leadership Seminar of March 2024.

ABOUT A STUDENT

Bro. Murphat Victor Chinagorom is one of our year 2 students. Born on March 11, 2001, in Mbutu-Ngwa, Abia State. He became a member of the Lord's church on May 28, 2017, through the efforts of Bro. Uzoma Alozie, the evangelist of the Church of Christ in Mbutu-Ngwa, Abia State. He gained admission into our ministerial program in August 2022. 

Currently, he is assisting the Lord's church at Felele-Rab, Ibadan, alongside Bro. Eniafe Olukayode. His mission after his training is to become a competent and sound minister of God.

CONCLUSION

We thank you all for your partnership, encouragement, and support. May the Lord continue to bless all our work together in Christ Jesus' name. Amen.

I remain yours in His grace and love as a servant,

Makinde Ebens Olufemi 

The Chief Servant of BVBIN & SWSE-IBADAN and WBSFUW 

More souls saved in Sierra Leone

ACTIVITY OPERATION REPORT FOR SEPTEMBER, 2023

Full Time and the Extended Programs

INTRODUCTION                               

We bring you greetings again from the Bear Valley Bible Institute Kenema. As our 3rd Graduation exercise comes closer, we become busier day by day. We have been enjoying God’s favour in our efforts to train men and women to proclaim Christ in this Muslim-dominated country. Evangelistically, the school has been so engaged. Our students have been helping many congregations to also nurture them to maturity. Please keep on reading for the details of this report.

ACADEMIC ACTIVITIES

As we write this report, our students in all the two programs are committed to their studies. Classes went on successfully and all our staff are also intact. We are grateful to God.

EVANGELISTIC EFFORTS AND THE CONVERSIONS

As we have always informed you, the school’s existence here primarily is for bringing souls to Christ, therefore, everyone in the school here understands this. And with our conviction, we have been cooperating with local congregations to evangelize the entire Sierra Leone and other countries like Guinea and Liberia. In this effort, for the past September, 14 souls were converted. Apart from this, 3 new congregations were established at Dangbaidu, Sandemande, and Kpalahun and a local congregation at Kangama was strengthened.

 APPRECIATION FOR THE DIGITAL LIBRARY

It was in August of this year that our coordinator, Steve Ashcraft, for the first time set up a digital Library for us. This library has been so helpful and useful to us, the staff and the students alike. Moreover, through the support of our Bear Valley Family in the USA, we got additional computers that are working very effectively; we want to appreciate you all, dear brethren for your love for the souls here.

CONCLUSION

We continue to appreciate your partnership in all aspects. May the Lord keep us till we could meet to share the good news of another report!

Peter Sahr Makundu,

Director,

The Bear Valley Bible Institute, Kenema Sierra Leone

Great work in the Philippines!

Dear Brother Keith,

Third quarter went so fast and well with our students as they have just finished the subjects on Christian Evidences, 1&2 Peter, and 1&2 Thessalonians. It is so amazing to see our student’s continuous growth and improvement. Their sending congregations are so glad to see them improving as they are now participating in the works of the church particularly in delivering sermons in their worship services and even conducting Bible studies.

We were able also to attend the Music camp that was held in Aurora Isabela this year where they learned basic worship leading, note reading and song composition and before they concluded the said camp, they were able to present their newly composed song.  

In Christ Service,

Baldomero Lagua Jr.

BVBI-Luzon Philippines

Making adjustments in Ukraine

Dear brothers and sisters, as well as the congregations,

We are very grateful for your prayers and your help that you constantly send to our country and the congregations of the Church of Christ.

The winter time is approaching and we are praying that we will have the opportunity to live through the colder time of the year. The warfare continues and, sadly, thousands of people die daily for the ambitions and desires of the handful of people with the power.

The Ministry of the Bear Valley Bible Institute.

In September Jim Sherman taught "Family Life", Terry Harmon taught the course on Homiletics and currently Vladimir Paziy is teaching "How we got the Bible". The studies are taking place on-line and we are trying to adapt to the new realities. In December we plan on starting Masters' program and we already have 6 students.

The Ministry of the Church in Bila Tserkva.

Last Sunday two people were baptized. It's a joyful event for the Church and for the Lord. An elderly couple from Kharkiv region stopped in Bela Tserkva fleeing from the war. During the previous year we helped them out, sent them food and helped in resolving their social problems. Some brothers would take them to the doctors' appointments, helped them make their living place more comfortable. They got attached to the church and experienced our love and care. They started attending the services regularly, studying with us the Word of God. As the result these two babies in Christ got on the way of salvation.  We pray that they will be an example for the group of other refugees who also attend our services regularly. Every Wednesday we keep on distributing the food packages and preaching the Gospel to newly resettled citizens of our city. This is a  good  opportunity to meet people and establish some friendships.

May God keep you safe and take care of you,

Your brother Dennis Sopelnik.

Kumasi, Ghana students conduct campaign

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE, KUMASI

 REPORT FROM JULY - SEPTEMBER 2023

INTRODUCTION

To God be the glory great things He has done for helping us to end another quarter.  Kumasi campus was privileged to get a wonderful support from the Bear Valley Bible Institute in the first quarter for which we are grateful to God for the opportunity.

ACTIVITIES                                                               

·     Two (2) new courses have been completed (Godhead and Old Testament History)

·     Two Students have embarked on a weekend follow-up at Wamahiniso in the Ahafo Region

·     Participation in the Truth be Told Lectureship

ACHIEVEMENTS

·     Students were enlightened at the Truth Be Told Lectureship

·     A room has been rented at Wamahiniso for follow-ups

·     2-set of Student’s mattresses has been purchased.

·     A timetable for the remaining courses in each quarter

·     Building of a good reporting system and a standard office setting is in progress.

·     One of the Students who got sick has recovered and have joined the class

Report by Alex Akosa Karikari

Uganda students finish exams before break

Greetings in the dear name of our lord Jesus christ. 

We bring you greetings from students and the staff at large here in Uganda. The men at Bear Valley Uganda are greatly giving  a difference taking classes  and for the long time but still  the willingness to know is more increase. Teachers are working so hard to see that these men get out from here when they are real soldiers of Christ.  We continually seek for your payers. 

Students have a break off for the long holiday this Friday.  They are expected to report early January  for their second year in class.  Let's pray that God may protect them in the holidays until we see them back to the campus. 

We haven't recorded so many challenges during  this time  though some can't always miss.  Four students  got very sick, but with God's grace, they were able to recover and continued with classes  One of our students recently lost his father  not even a week ago. Pray for him  as he encounter so many  challenges at home. I was able to go be with him in this trying moment. 

The challenge of water has been another big one, always have us in prayers that with time, this may be solved to ease our staying here.

With all these God is faithful because he has been with us and giving us all ways possible to overcome what comes our way. May his name be blessed. 

May the almighty God bless you so much. 

Until all have heard 

Raymond 

Takoradi school celebrates graduation

OPERATIONAL REPORT FOR SEPTEMBER, 2023

 CLASSROOM WORK

The regular students were on holidays from 1st – 30th September. The part time students continued studies for the first two weeks in the month.

The third week of the month was used to prepare for the graduation of 2021/2022 academic year students.

September was the month for graduation and Seminar. Ten students graduated during the 17th congregation of the school which took place on Saturday, 16th September, 2023.  The program was very successful and well attended. There were numerous awards for the graduating students. The best graduating student was awarded a laptop and books and most evangelistic students were also awarded books. In all, it was a very memorable program.

Seminar followed from 18th – 21st September, 2023 at the Twin city special school. The theme for the seminar was “be ready to give a defense”. It was a very educational and informative seminar. We had great speakers who presented marvelous topics and lessons. Preachers and church leaders across the country attended the seminar.

 PERSONAL EVANGELISM AND BAPTISM

Week in week out, our students are involved in evangelism. To engage our students during the vacation, we joined them with our just graduated batch to embark on a week evangelism to strengthen a local congregation a week before their graduation. The congregation is being handled by one of the just graduated students. There are several personal and public evangelism efforts throughout the country. As always, God continues to bless our efforts with some converts. All the preaching was done by the students and the graduands.

Tamale staff work to convert denominational souls

Another milestone has been reached in the journey of the Bear Valley Institute of Biblical Studies, Tamale in the month of September, 2023. The month of September brought us great memories and encouragement in our efforts to push the agenda of God forward. Indeed, the month of September, 2023 is a memorable month for us in Bear Valley Tamale.

UPDATE ON ACADEMIC ARRANGEMENT

Students were on break in the whole month of September, 2023. This break is in line with our academic arrangement for the year. 

DENOMINATIONAL PROGRAM FOR CONVERSION

We give glory to God for the successful beginning of the denominational program put in place with the help and collaboration of Brother Steven Ashcraft and the resident staff in Tamale. In our efforts together to go the extra mile to make an impact in our evangelistic work, especially in Tamale town, we all saw the need to come up with a program where we recruit some denominational Church leaders, pastors and members into the school, for a special free lesson, directed towards converting the campus. It is our hope and prayers that we succeed with ours too. Currently, fourteen people have been recruited into the program. They have so far had five meetings.  It is our hope and prayers that conversions take place, some of them could be migrated into our next recruitment for the Diploma Course when they are converted.

SCHOOL BUS PURCHASE

One of the major transformational events that took place in the month of September 2023 was the purchase of a bus for the school. Getting a bus for the school has always been a top issue for us as an Institute. We struggle almost all the time we embark on evangelistic journeys. So, getting a bus has always been a great deal of matter before us in our meetings. We give the glory that this dream has been fulfilled successfully, by the help of Brother Steven and that concern for Kingdom Business. A sprinter Bus was purchased in the month of September to aid our work and movements, especially, our evangelistic journeys. We give God the glory for all the individuals who have made any kind of sacrifice to make things easy for all the time, especially, helping us have a bus for our evangelistic work. God bless you all for your great service to God. We also thank Brother Kojo Acquah Beenyi for always standing for our interest as an Institute, anytime we are on the right direction. God bless you all.

VISIITATION AND SEMINAR

In the month of September also, Brother Albert stood in for Brother James in a three days seminar hosted under the Zabzugu District by the Jomoni congregation. The seminar brought together four congregations dealing with the issue of True Christian living. Emphasis was placed on the Christian relation to the society and that of the family. Brother Albert Tamanja was the main speaker, and it was a very successful event. He took the opportunity to advertise the school to the participants. We praise God.

KPALSI SOUTH CONGREGATION

As one of our efforts and strategies to keep our youth and children active and ready for the future, the church has programs in the course of the year that give the youth the opportunity to lead in worship. In the month of September, we had a three days program, where lessons directed towards the youth and children were taught. We also gave the youth the opportunity to officiate in worship on the third day, which falls on the first day of the week.

Furthermore, after worship, the children were given the opportunity to play some Biblical drama and recitation of scriptures and books of the Bible. It was a very inspiring moment, as little kids were able to memorize Bible verses and recite Books of the Bible from Genesis to Malachi, and from Matthew to Revelation. Indeed, we believe the future is bright for our congregation in Kpalsi South.

PERSONALITY PROFILE

28 years old Dickson Anonzah Akumbila is the person we briefly profiled in the month of September, 2023. He was born on the 4th Day October 1994 in Bolgatanga, in a community called Sumbrungu Amogerebiisi Kunkuam. Brother Dickson is Single, living with his mother and sisters in a house known as Amoah guure yire. He completed S.H.S in 2015, baptized into the church on the 4th day of March 2021 by Brother Jacob Awintoya, preacher for the Sumbrungu Congregation. Having the desire to work for the Lord, he enrolled into the Bear Valley, Tamale preaching school.  He is part of the current 2023/2024 batch.

We thank God for how far He has brought us. Amen.

The Lord blesses us all,

Bear Valley, Tamale.

Good instruction in Warri, Nigeria

INTRODUCTION

We express our sincere gratitude to God for His benevolence towards us. The growth of the gospel work in Nigeria is noteworthy, with a widening sphere of influence. The Bear Valley Family here in Warri centers, especially its dedicated members, have been instrumental in disseminating the Word to remote areas. We extend our thanks to the Bear Valley Family in Denver, USA, for their unwavering support. We hold in prayer all those involved in this partnership and our support groups, hoping for continued strength as we advance our gospel mission.

ACADEMIC ACTIVITIES

DSC CENTER

In July, at the DSC center, studies commenced with enthusiasm. Godwin Ojocheogwu led a comprehensive discussion on the book of Romans, emphasizing that men are saved by grace of God, through Jesus Christ, not by the works of the law because no man can perfectly keep the law. The just shall live by faith. A total of twenty-one (21) students completed the associated examinations.

In August, the book of 1 Corinthians was discussed. Solomon Usim gave a background to the possible reasons for the many problems in the Corinthian church. The first four chapters dealt on issues related to hero worship. Chapters 4-6 expounded on the problems and proffered solutions on how the church should discipline her members. Marriage related problems in chapter seven; The phrase “Concerning the things you wrote to me” was elaborated on. Things Sacrifice to Idols in chapter eight; in chapter nine, Paul defended his apostleship and his burning desire to preach the gospel. Chapter ten and eleven dealt with the examples of the children of Israel in the wilderness and head covering respectively. Chapters twelve to fourteen dealt with Spiritual Gifts. Chapter 15 was basically on Resurrection while chapter 16 was closing formalities. Nineteen (19) students undertook the related examinations.

In September, Abiola Vincent Ojoade taught classes on I and II Thessalonians. At the end of the course, Students were able to understand Biblical teaching concerning the second coming of Christ, the Man of Sin and the various Christian Responsibilities stressed in the books. A total of nineteen (19) students sat for the associated examination.

PTI CENTER

The long-awaited course on hermeneutics was taught in July. Solomon Usim explained that the essence of hermeneutics is Correct Biblical Interpretation. He exposed the lessons and explained exegesis from eisegesis. Navigated through deductive reasoning and inductive reasoning and highlighted among others, the roots of negative interpretations. Thirteen (13) students successfully completed the course.

In August, Meredith Ovwromoh taught Prison Epistles. The Supremacy, Sufficiency, and Centrality of Christ as LORD! Christ, as Creator and God, is superior to any idea, philosophy, religion, or mysticism.  He is over trends, traditions, and even the Jewish laws that pointed to Him.  No one can gain salvation or fullness without Jesus Christ. A total of thirteen (13) students sat for the exams.

Additionally, in September, Solomon Usim taught the course 1 Corinthians. Solomon gave a background to the possible reasons for the many problems in the Corinthian church. The first four chapters dealt on hero worship. Chapters 4-6 expounded on the problems and how the church should discipline her members. The phrase “concerning the things you wrote to me” was elaborated on. Marriage related problems in chapter seven; Things Sacrificed to Idols in chapter eight; in chapter nine, Paul defended his apostleship and his burning desire to preach the gospel. chapter ten and eleven dealt with the examples of the children of Israel in the wilderness and head covering respectively. Chapters twelve to fourteen dealt with Spiritual Gifts. Chapter 15 was basically on resurrection while chapter 16 was closing formalities. Fourteen (14) students completed the associated exams.

CAMPAIGN PROGRAM

There was no gospel campaign majorly because of the Four Field Discipleship Multiplication Programs going on around the area.

NEW INSTRUCTOR

You will recall that sometime in 2021 and 2022, two of our instructors moved. Kumayon Kumasi (Evang) moved to Ogun State to continue his ministerial work there. Similarly, Osita Onuorah (Evang), the former director, moved to Abuja in 2022. Thus, there was a need to fill in the space. During the May visit of Keith Kasarjian, President-BVBID Extension Program, discussion on the replacement was made and agreed. The relocation of Osita Onuorah (Evang) led the Okoh Street church of Christ to secure the services of Iduh Creed Odike (Evang), a fresh graduate from School of Biblical Studies Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria. Odike thus became a suitable replacement. Therefore, in July a letter of recommendation was written to the appropriate authorities and approval was granted. The Bear Valley family here appreciates the tremendous support the Warri center and the Nigerian schools at large enjoys. We pray that our loving father blesses the work more abundantly.

CHALLENGES

The economic situation in Nigeria is worsening by the day. The dollar to naira exchange rate affects every commodity. This may be attributed to bad governance. The students travel from afar to attend and the increase affects the transportation cost. However, to God be the glory, some of them are keeping faith with the programme.

THIRD QUARTER'S EVENTS

·      Number of Students- forty-seven (47), twenty (20) at PTI and Twenty-seven (27) at DSC

·      Number of Campaigns Conducted by Students/Teachers in This Quarter: None.

·      Number of Baptisms Resulting from Evangelical Efforts by Students/Teachers This quarter: Nine 17

·      Number of New Congregations Established: None

·      Number of Teachers at the School: Five (5)

·      Number of Churches Restored: None

CONCLUSION

It has been another quarter of fruitful endeavor. Classes have been superb and both Staff and students are in high spirits. The year is fast coming to an end and we are grateful to God for being with us all the way. We are thankful for your prayers and immense support. We pray the school will continue to help preachers and teachers in the area to improve more and more in Christ name amen. We pray for more, safe passages for all the Bear Valley Family as they travel around the world for the sake of the gospel. We pray for those supporting the work, that the Almighty God will continue to bless their endeavors more and more in Christ’s name amen.

Lilongwe, Malawi school perseveres

We have been operating on reduced power since two batteries have been sent back to the manufacturer for factory defects.  As the factory is in another country, it is taking months to get back up to full power.  

The students have adjusted to getting up early instead of staying up late since the lights in their houses and in the study hall have been going out at 8 p.m. (right after they have finished eating supper and spending time with the family).

As the company was working to install one battery as a “loaner”, we moved chapel outside so we could stay on schedule at the preaching school.  Things like those, which could derail everything, instead are viewed as opportunities.  It was nice to meet outside for a change… a reminder of church camp!

Loss & Sickness Plague the School

A third student wife has lost a parent in less than a year… that’s almost half!  Yet, they are persevering! 

A 1 1/2-year-old contracted a bacterial infection and needed transport to and from the hospital for 3 days to get daily antibiotic treatments intravenously. She is recovering fully!

Meet the Bodwin Phiri Family

The seventh and final student family we would like to introduce is the Bodwin Phiri family. Bodwin is 36 years old, and his wife Doreen is 27. They were married in 2017. Bodwin and Doreen have a daughter, Anjellina, who is six and a son, Onesius, who is two. They are what one would call a cross-cultural family as Bodwin is from Northern Malawi and Doreen is from the Central Region. Bodwin grew up attending the church and was baptized in 2005. Doreen was baptized in 2016. 

Before coming to Bear Valley Lilongwe, Bodwin and Doreen farmed a little and ran a small grocery shop in their village. In addition, Bodwin was a brick layer. Both Bodwin and Doreen are very hard workers. They want to put their great work ethic to use for the kingdom of God. After school, they plan to return to their village near Karonga and continue in their prior professions. They also want to plant new churches and spend more time evangelizing lost souls. 

As a director, I find myself noticing little things about each person on campus. It’s interesting to see the significant changes in their lives during the relatively short time they are here. Doreen came quite reserved but outspoken when the time was right. It was easy to see she had great potential. This especially came to light when in a matter of weeks she lost her mom, sister-in-law, and Bodwin about died from cholera. Now, her intelligence, confidence, and godly determination are shining brightly. Bodwin came as a wallflower. It was not until the second hermeneutics class that I heard his “loud voice”. He has come out of his shell and is revealing a deep desire to learn. They are going to do great things for the kingdom. 

Please join us in prayer for this wonderful family.

Dale Kastner

Showing the love of Jesus in Cambodia

Dear brothers and sisters in Jesus Christ,

I hope this report finds you well. I wanted to provide you with an update on the recent activities and progress made by our student group in October.

First, I am thrilled to inform you that one our students delivered a powerful sermon last Sunday. The congregation was deeply moved by the message, and it was truly a testament to the growth and dedication of our students. We are incredibly proud of their commitment to spreading the gospel and their ability to inspire others through their words.

Additionally, I wanted to share the exciting news that our student group embarked on a village outreach program. They visited a nearby village and actively engaged with the local community, sharing the gospel and extending their support to the church there. The reception they received was heartwarming, and the impact they made on the lives of the people in the village was truly remarkable.

During their visit, our students not only shared the gospel but also took the time to encourage and uplift the local church. They offered words of encouragement, provided practical assistance, and fostered a sense of unity and fellowship among the members.

As we continue to support our students in their faith journey, I kindly request your prayers for their continued growth in faith and knowledge. May they be strengthened in their commitment to the Lord and inspired to deepen their understanding of His teachings. Pray that they may continue to be effective ambassadors of the gospel, bringing hope and love to those they encounter.

Thank you for your unwavering support and encouragement. Together, we can empower these young individuals to make a lasting impact in their communities and beyond.

Servants of Jesus Christ. 

[Piseth Rin and Darat Run]
Co-Directors of IBISR.

Donnie Estep visits Malawi

Hello Everyone!

We are grateful to God that we have reached this far in the year 2023. We have just ended our second semester and all the students have gone home for their practical work. We expect them back in early February. We were also excited to have Donnie with us for a short course. This month of October a lot has been achieved and good news from our former students is always encouraging. More in the details below!

Teaching

So far so good a job has been done. We have done more than half of our curriculum and next year will be the final for this class and then graduation. Before the close of the second semester we hosted brother Donnie who was teaching the book of "Hebrews". Donnie was excited to see how quickly our students are growing in knowledge. The first year class is always challenging especially in the first semester but as they go along they improve and their understanding becomes Joy to every teacher.

Evangelism

We have received news from some of our former students like brother Saliwa, Takesure, Shadreck, Mateyo and some men who are working with the school; brothers Abishai and Kennedy. They have reported of souls being saved totaling to 46 in the months of October and 14 more souls restored. This always puts the school on the map when we hear from our graduates. We pray that God bless their families physically and Spiritually as they continue doing this noble work.

Holiday

Our students are now gone for a 3 months holiday. It is a long holiday for them to have enough time to preach, teach and encourage congregations. And also, we in Africa depend on farming as a source of finding something to put on our tables and the rains starts in November whereby everyone is needed to be working on his field of crops. The school will open in the first week of February, 2024.

We are always thankful to God for the Bear Valley Bible Institute International and the partnership with the Hillcrest church in Missouri for the every month support. Our currency has been devalued 2, if not 3 times this year putting everything rocketing up high in prices. Life is not the same. But your support and prayers make us move forward. Keep helping us and you have your reward hereafter. Many men have no biblical education and many souls are not saved. Let's join hands to fulfill the ministry. Your involvement is still needed.

"Eternity Is Forever, Think Souls"!

Yours in Christ,

Ephron and Clergynton

Evangelism is the goal in Togo

Report for September 2023

I give thanks to God for this month which has just ended and for the lives of the brothers and sisters of all the congregations who have taken part in church and school activities in southern Togo.

May the Almighty bless all those who contribute to the evolution of work in Togo and elsewhere.

Evangelism:

Every Friday for students, every Tuesday for Kpalime zone evangelists, every Thursday for Kpele zone evangelists and every Wednesday for Agou zone evangelists. At present, evangelists in the Atakpalime zone have started evangelizing every Wednesday. It's a very effective method that involves everyone, even the lazy ones, I'd say, are involved and encouraged. The total number of people baptized this September is 13.

During the month of September, the students occupied the areas of the city where:

 1. TSIVE district, (2 times).

2. Quartier Zomayi (3 times).

BVBI

The quarter ends this month and the third quarter begins mid-October 2023. This quarter's courses will be sent to you in next month's reports. There are 15 students who have completed their courses and are waiting for the next ones. Every Wednesday evening and Sunday, they visit local churches to teach and exhort. At the end of each month, there is a general evaluation for all the students, enabling the teachers to take steps to help and improve each student's level of biblical knowledge.

All teachers enjoyed their academic work and practical work, either through evangelism or working with local churches. This development encourages work and other programs such as evangelistic campaigns in different regions, conferences and seminars. Evangelists are involved in many of the activities organized by the school.

Saturday courses

There are 15 Saturday schools in southern Togo, with a total enrolment of 150 students from all denominations, some of whom have already been baptized and some of whom are already planning to join the two-year BVBI training program. They will join the institute after the class of 2023-2025. This strategy of bringing together denominational leaders (members, pastors, prophets and apostles) to first evangelize and teach them, has resulted in a large number of converts becoming members, and how a new assembly in the locality. This is a good way of planting churches in certain areas of southern Togo.

1. Kpalime (10)

2. Temedja(10)

3. Adeta(10)

4. Amoussoukope (10)

5. Lome (10)

6. Blita (10)

7. Notse (10)

8. Kati (10)

9. Danyi (10)

10. Amakpape (10)

11. Kpele-Ele (10)

12. Datcha (10)

13. Amlame (10)

14. Heheatro (10)

15. Dalave (10)

Churches

Churches of Christ in the south of Togo have recently been hit by rainstorms, such as those in AMOUSSOKPE, TSABOME, TEMEDJA and LAVIE-APEDOME. Without sheds under which to gather, they have been holding Sunday services under very difficult conditions.

Women's conference

Conferences are often organized by region. In September, it was at NUKAFU in Lomé, where women from our region were to take part in the third conference of the year, from October 1 to 4, 2023.

Theme: The role of the Christian woman in the home.

Text: Proverbs 31:11-31.

Evangelists

Still on the move for the salvation of souls, gathered on September 4 to define how to proceed to evangelize a greater number and plant four (4) churches by the end of this year 2023.

Strategies are defined as setting up a system called zone work divided into five:

1. kpalime zone

2. Agou zone

3. Kpele zone

4. Fiokpe area

5. Atakpame zone.

To succeed, you have to work as a team. All these teams, made up of 55 evangelists and brothers of good will, are always on the move to evangelize. Another team is being formed with students from Blita and surrounding areas for the central region.

Public preaching success in Ghana

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE, KOFORIDUA-GHANA

THIRD QUARTER REPORT - 2023

Introduction

We need to be grateful to the Almighty Father for seeing us through another quarter: July – September 2023 with so much blessing that we cannot count in this Kingdom.

Students

A new student came for form and started lectures. This adds up to (18) eighteen students here at Koforidua extended school with the exception of one student who stays far from here but is determined to read the course. The rest are doing well in attendance.

Classes

We have had three courses taught. They are the book of Romans by Bro Paul Larbi Young. The Gospel of John by Bro. Kwabena Gyan-Mante and the book of Revelation by Paul Larbi Young.

Students Activities

Two students were leading two congregations where these congregations do not have preachers. They are Edward Amoako for the Church of Christ- Asokore and Alex Obu for the Okorase congregation. We are having public preaching with a small congregation that one of our students is leading, the Osabene congregation from 3rd October to 8th October, 2023 with every speaker from our school. The service on October 8th will be led by our students. We pray for good weather for the programme.

On July 23rd the students visited some nearby congregations to advertise for students. Out of that we had a soul obeying the Lord as the result of the visit. We pray and hope we will get the result of this visit. It is something we will continue to do as time goes on.

Plans Ahead

We have in plan to start a congregation in a nearby town before the year ends if all things being equal. Pray with us.

Conclusion

Finally, we would like you all to pray with us for Bro. Kwabena Gyan-Mante who has not been doing well for some time now. Thanks be to God for he is responding to treatment.

We continue to be grateful to all what you are doing in the expansion of the Lord’s Kingdom.

Great news from Nigeria

REPORT OF BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE – BENIN CITY

EDO STATE, NIGERIA FOR JULY, AUGUST & SEPTEMBER 2023.

I am delighted to present the report of Benin schools for this quarter.

Academics

We have successfully completed the following courses for the quarter in both schools:

Old Testament II,

New Testament Church

Worship of the New Testament Church.

Brothers Dunia Christopher, Andrew Osatohamwen, Inne Everest and Fidelis Daniel did justice to the courses.

Evangelism

The schools in collaboration with the church of Christ Owie Street, Off Saint

Saviour, Benin City and The Church of Christ, 80, Useh Road, Upper Siloko

Road, Benin City, invaded the host communities with the undiluted gospel of

Christ on the 29 th of July and 30 th of September respectively.

Baptisms

As a result of the collective and individual evangelistic prowess of both the school faculty members and the students, ten souls were added to the kingdom of Jesus Christ through water baptism during the quarter including a denominational “Pastor” and his wife.

Additional Instructor

Brother Daniel Fidelis has been added to the school instructors making the number four. Fidelis attended Western Nigeria Christian College, Abeokuta, Ogun State and school of Biblical Studies, Jos, Plateau State where he bagged Diploma in Ministry and Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies respectively. He is currently

preaching in the same congregation with Brother Dunia Christopher.

Student testimony regarding the school, by Bro. Solomon Itobore Aibangbe

Enrolment as a student in BVB1, Benin City has satisfied my greatest need of knowing and applying the word of God in my Soul-wining exercise. We have been groomed or how to interpret scriptures and also on how to make presentations in a more compelling manner that makes sense to our hearers. It has further deepen our interest in research and notes taking in the aspect of memorizing Bible verses, we have been groomed in a way that we can recall relevant bible passages when the need arises. We now have access to materials that have enrich our library, and enhanced our vocabulary. More importantly our evangelism program is helping to mold us and prepare us for the task ahead. I can say we are being trained and equipped to be a relevant gospel preacher in our present generation. Through our class discussions and group assignments, team work is encouraged; this will positively make us work together in the future to achieve more for Christ.

Appreciation

Words are not enough for us to appreciate our sponsors for their financial support. We pray God reward you immensely for all you are doing to ensure the growth of the kingdom of Jesus Christ.

We also thank for Brother Keith Kasarjian, Chad Wagner, Olufemi Eben Makinde, Solomon Usim, Victor Fasonu and all the BVB1-Nigeria Directors for their encouragement.

We pray God blesses them and their families.