Strong first quarter in Lusaka, Zambia

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE LUSAKA

FIRST QUARTER REPORT FOR THE YEAR 2024

INTRODUCTION

On behalf of the staff from the Bear Valley Bible Institute Lusaka, I wish to submit this First Quarter Report for the year 2024.

COURSES COVERED

The courses covered were three as shown below, giving us a total of 26 taught so far.

Marriage and Family. - the wives of the married students were also in attendance during the presentation of this course. Others are Hermeneutics and 1 Corinthians.

On average, we had 12 students who attended the classes in the quarter under review.

OUTREACH PROGRAMS

In the month of February, the Bear Valley Bible Institute students undertook a three day evangelism program at the University of Zambia and the Natural Resources Development College. The purpose of this activity was for evangelism to the higher learning institutions. On the other hand, this activity helped the church of Christ students locate the congregations that could be near to their learning institutions for worship services. The outcome of this activity, did not only benefit Lusaka Central church of Christ but also other sister congregations in Lusaka.

In the same month of February, the staff undertook a church planting ground work survey at Situmbeko area which is about 44 miles away from Lusaka’s central business district (CBD). The reception from the local community was overwhelming with the church planting program and this is scheduled for the month of May 2024.

In the month of March, the BVBI team had a two day outreach program at Kayosha church of Christ located at 15 miles from Lusaka’s CBD. While the students were out for evangelism, the staff was teaching on the lesson of Marriage and Family to the couples at the same congregation. The activity did not only increase the number of the congregations numerically, but also strengthened the family relationships.

In the same month of March, the BVBI team attended an evangelism workshop which was conducted by the visiting brothers from India in conjunction with the Chilenje church of Christ. The activity exposed our students to other evangelism technics.

The month of March closed with a Church General Conference which was held in the Southern Province of Zambia during the Easter Holiday and the BVBI staff was one of the speakers at the conference which was attended by 4,180 members.

In the quarter under review, students from their respective congregations were involved in teaching the new converts, Bible study classes and preaching.

Other students continued preaching to the inmates in the local prisons of Lusaka.

BAPTISMS

The BVBI team recorded a total number of 28 baptisms from the above executed activities in the quarter under review. That is, 15 baptisms were recorded from the conference, 7 baptisms from the implemented evangelism programs, and 6 baptisms from the congregations where the students fellowship.

RESTORATIONS

The total number of 81 restorations was recorded in the quarter under review. That is, 53 from the conference, 15 from the outreach program and 13 from the congregations where the students fellowship.

GUEST

The BVBI Lusaka was privileged to be visited by Brother Donnie Estep. During his visit, we took a trip to meet with the leadership at Chunga church of Christ where three of our students congregate. We also visited Chilenje church of Christ where two of our instructors congregate and attended the brothers Bible study class. On March 24, the Lusaka Central congregation was grateful to fellowship with Brother Donnie during the worship service.

CONCLUSION

The BVBI Lusaka is grateful for the continued support being invested in the advancement of the gospel of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and the growing of the Kingdom of God.

Jonah Siyanga and the Staff. 

Special guests in Cameroon

Dearest in Christ,

Greetings from Cameroon,

  I have gone some time now without sending my reports across the ocean due to many issues concerning internet receptivity in my area. We give thanks to God that we can have this opportunity to say hello, and to make known to you, what is happening in the vineyard here in Wotutu, under our care. We pray this report meets you in good health and in resounding faith as you do God’s business in your own area.

  God has been active with us here. Since December, as the students of the Bear valley Bible institute travelled to 20 different locations for mission work, and God gave the grace and the increase, even in some places amidst the crisis. We always sing, “Anywhere with Jesus I Can Safely Go.” All of them were able to return back to campus safe and sound with good news about souls being saved, but bad news about the ongoing crisis in our beloved country.

  The work here continues to be in progress daily and we give all the glory back to God. It can only be God! The year 2024 started well for us, even though many students returned back to campus sick. All is under control medically at this time though. Thanks for your daily prayers over the work here.

  The year 2024 started well, and have already received a special blessing by us having special guests, minister Denny Petrillo and minister David Wayne Jones from the main campus of Bear valley Bible Institute International in Denver, come to Wotutu to teach, observe, and visit. Our students formed a line to give them a red-carpet reception on our campus in Wotutu. It was a privileged to have such humble servants of the cross, here in Cameroon.

  These servants of God were in Cameroon for God’s business of training faithful men to be fully prepared to carry the gospel of Jesus Christ to the ends of this country Cameroon. They had an agenda, to teach the book of II Corinthians. It was great for our students to have the opportunity to tap from these two vessels, who are full of the knowledge of God’s word. We continue to thank God for their coming, and for the way they helped our students to learn.

  These two great men co-taught the book of II Corinthians, chapter after chapter, from the introduction all the way to the end of the final chapter. We were really blessed by their presence, even though brother Wayne was sick for a couple of days. He bounced back though and was able to finish his assignment. This assignment took him across the ocean to Africa, for his very first time.

  We had a family picture with them in from of the Bible building to immortalized their memories with us.

We also had a joint meeting with the instructors from both the Bear valley Bible institute Cameroon -Mbanga, which is French, and those from the BVBIC-Wotutu which is English. The meeting was very good, as it was characterized with much appreciation, as well as appeals to upgrade the Bear Valley school in Cameroon to the level that it can issue out a BA in Bible. We keep praying to God to be with the authorities that be as they ponder and plan. We pray that if God will, it can come to pass during our time here.

During the last quarter’s mission work in December by our students, the Lord added 33 souls into His church, 12 Christians were restored to the faith, 1 new congregation established, and 2 congregations were restored.

PLANS

Evangelism is our mission and our mission is evangelism. Evangelism is always in our plans and is always top on our agenda.

APPRECIATIONS

 Thank you for your prayers, for your concern, and your support towards the Lord’s work here. They are contributing a lot, towards keeping the work in the space it is now. Please share our reports with others. May God bless you. Make a great week.

Elangwe and family

By His grace, director BVBIC-Wotutu

Reaching the lost in northern Ghana

BEAR VALLEY INSTITUTE OF BIBLICAL STUDIES, TAMALE - GHANA

JANUARY 2024 OPERATING REPORT

The year 2023 ended successfully on a high note; giving us a lot of anxiety for the year 2024. We give glory to God for crossing all of us through into the year 2024. In the month of January, 2024, we kicked started the year 2024 with lots of hope for the future. We started 2024 in higher grounds, praying that the year will move forward in a very positive direction as we are hoping for. We wish all a happy new year. And we hope the Lord keeps us all safe till the day appointed for eternity. Below are a series of activities we engaged in the month of January 2024.

KPALSI SOUTH CONGREGATION

Leadership is one of the greatest arms of the church that can bring growth in all areas of every congregation. Leaders were appointed in the year 2023 for the Lord’s church in the local congregation in Kpalsi South. We saw it necessary, for a smooth progress of the congregation, to reinforce the leadership in January 2024 for a more effective and sound running of the congregation. New leaders were added, while some of the old ones were replaced, and some moved from where they were serving to a more suitable area. We praise God for guiding us as a congregation to run effectively.

We also in the month of January hosted a love feast that brought together members of our congregation, neighbors (most were Muslims) and sister congregations in Tamale. We took advantage of the event to share the word of God and we shared some physical supper with them. It was an admirable event.

In the month of January 2024 also, one soul was added to the Lord’s church by the grace and mercy of God. We praise God for the many blessings we continue to enjoy.

Kpalsi South congregation indeed received some extreme blessings in January 2024. Brother Steven Ashcraft was also in Tamale, and did bless us with some great spiritual meals on giving. We pray that the Lord gives long life, peace and good health. We pray not for only him, but him and his entire family.  

EVANGELISTIC STEPS

It is emphatically true without a bit of doubt that evangelism (soul winning) is the center of God’s heart. Christ died because of souls. He died to seek and to save the lost as stated in Luke 19:10. Brother Steven Ashcraft, with his absolute commitment for mission work and souls, was in Ghana in the month of January, and came to Northern Ghana, precisely Tamale to embark on some fruitful activities towards our evangelistic efforts. Haven inspired us to increase our evangelistic efforts by establishing evangelistic teams across Northern Ghana, it was necessary for him to come evaluate, strengthen and encourage us for the work ahead of us.

STAFF MEETING: Brother Steven’s first activity when he arrived in Tamale was to hold a staff meeting with the resident staff in the school to evaluate the work being done. He took time to guide and instruct us on the way things could be done more effectively for a much better result. Some of the things discussed were related to administration, recruitment for the next batch, the need for better team work, the evangelistic efforts within Tamale, and the entire Northern Ghana and also cross border evangelistic work. We had a very successful discussion with a wonderful and harmonious end.

MEET WITH EVENAGLIST TEAMS: The second meeting he held was with the evangelistic teams established across Northern Ghana. Brother Steven took time to define our common goal, which is to save souls and establish and maintain strong congregations. He further gave some ideas and ways we could achieve this goal. Provision was made for individual teams to make a brief presentation on how each of them goes about their work in their localities. Brother Steven came back to encourage each of them and gave his comments on what they could do better for a much better result.

MEETING WITH EVANGELISTS FROM TOGO AND GHANA: Brother Steven also held a meeting with the Tamale staffs who are into evangelistic work with two evangelists from Togo to exchange some knowledge and ideas to see how possible we could collaborate to work in the border cities between the two nations and possibly other nations that share borders with us. There is also currently a denominational preacher and members' conversion lessons that are going on in Tamale that we in Tamale learned from the brethren from Togo through Brother Steven. Their presence was an opportunity for us to tap into their success stories and make good use of it. Meeting them gave us a better perspective of what works better for that and what doesn’t, with them being the pioneers. We also considered the need for us to work together in our efforts to reach out to some of the Francophone nations. It was also a wonderful meeting.

MISSIONARY JOURNEY TO SAMPA (GHANA) AND BONDOUKOU (IVORY COAST): The two evangelists from Togo (Fidele and Cephas), together with Brother James Legend (Ghana Tamale), embarked on a missionary journey with Brother Steven Ashcraft after the meetings in Tamale which all took place between the 12th and the 15th of January, 2024 to Sampa, under the Bono Region in Ghana.

At Sampa, they met with the Preach for the only congregation in Sampa and some of the sisters who were available to discuss matters of the church and possible evangelistic work. We had a very smooth discussion, where we considered the possibility of the brethren in Sampa working with the Brethren in Bondoukou for effective missionary work. It was a very fruitful dialogue, which got the preacher for Sampa (Brother Sa-Yaw David) inspired to join us to cross the border to Bondoukou to meet with the Brethren there for better conclusion.

We all crossed the Border into Ivory Coast, to meet with the brethren in Bondoukou. Brother Koffi Roger, an evangelist from Abijan in Ivory Coast also traveled to join the team at Bondoukou for the missionary journey. We met Brother Amadou Logossina Quattara, who is the evangelist for the congregation in Bondoukou town in his residence. A very fruitful meeting took place, but was inconclusive, because it was necessary to have some of the evangelists who are from that locality, and are working with Brother Amadou to contribute to the discussion.  Brother James and Brother David (from Sampa) who are Ghanaian were tasked to return to Sampa and lodge, so they hold a meeting the following day with Brother Amadou and all the concerned evangelists included to find a way forward. Brother Steven and the rest of the team lodged at Bondoukou that day, which was the 17th of January, 2024 so they could continue with the missionary journey forward, toward Sera-León, Liberia, Guinea etc.

As planned, Brother James and Brother David went and lodged at Sampa, and returned to Bondoukou on the 18th of January, 2024 for the meeting. Four additional evangelists join the meeting together with Brother Amadou, James and David. A very fruitful conclusion was drawn at the end of the meeting. The Brethren from Bondoukou were ready and did accept to team up and work as a team to help strengthen, restore and plant new congregations in their area. They also saw the need for them to train up leaders and possibly also implement the denominational program to help convert denominational pastors and leaders into the Lord’s church. We also agree that the brethren from Ghana and Togo make time and join the brethren in Bondoukou to inspire, encourage and help in their efforts. After the meeting, Brother David and James Returned to Ghana and James proceeded from Sampa to Tamale. We praise the Lord.

AIDING WORKING EVANGELIST

In the month January 2024, as part of the efforts of Brother Steven to encourage evangelists who are doing their best for the work of our master Jesus, he made funds available to purchase a motor bike for one of the committed preachers in the Upper East Region. He is Brother Elijah from Sandema, who works for the Sandema Wiega Congregation. He is also working with the Sandema Bolga Evangelistic team. Brother Elijah was very appreciative with support given to him to aid him in his work as a preacher. He pledges to do his best to use the machine for the interest of Christ. Words of encouragement were also given to him during the presentation ceremony.  

JOINT EVANGELISTIC CAMPAIGN

Towards the end of the month of January, we embarked on a joint evangelistic campaign to the North East Region, precisely, Bunkpurugu. We embarked on a one week church strengthening mission. The Tamale evangelistic team together with the students and the Bunkpurugu team came together to embark on this one week journey. We had a very fruitful journey. We had door to door or one on one studies with individuals throughout, as well as the public preaching in the evenings.

Topics treated at the public preaching were, the three dispensations, the one true Church, The Holy Spirit and Miraculous Gifts, Worship of the Church and the Judgement of God. Indeed, all the activities that took place were worth it.  At the end of the program, 28 souls were added to the Lord’s Church, with 5 restored successfully. We give God the glory.

It is our hope that God will help us do more for His kingdom this year forth.

Thank you,

Bear Valley Tamale

Souls being saved in Guinea

To you our fraternal greetings in Christ

Please see below the report of activity for February 2024

Introduction:

We, Bear Valley of Gueckedou have the duty to inform you in the smallest details the result of the activities carried out in the vineyard of God in Gueckedou. 

As you know, for the vineyard to be productive, there are various activities that need to be carried out by third parties using different methods and strategies.

In the rest of this report we'll be talking about.

1. Classroom teaching

2. Evangelism in all its forms

3. Restoration of the Church of Bardou 

4. History of the Church in Sandia 

And finally, the conclusion.

I-Teaching/Class room 

The only way to avoid apostasy or to fight against it is to teach holy doctrine to faithful men who are able of dispensing it rightly to others.

During the month of February 2024, a total of 3 courses were taught:

1-Biblical Geography taught by Francis Lavalay. For a week, students literally traveled around Israel, visiting in spirit the strategic points where God's children lived from Abraham to Jesus.

2-Biblical principles and advice taught by Antoine Fasse, Dean of Students.

3-Comparative study of religions taught by Niouma 2 Kamano.

II- Evangelism.

The epicenter of all our activities is evangelism, by which we reduce the kingdom of Satan to enlarge that of God. To carry out evangelism successfully, we use financial and material resources, as well as various methods and strategies, and then the right people.

One of the methods that has won us a lot of souls is  composing of evangelism teams coordinated by Francis S Musa and initiated by our coordinator Steven Ashcraft. 

In February 2024, the evangelism team of Yaradou Kongonani led by Eloi Tolno, a graduate of Bear Valley in Gueckedou, went to Sandia to evangelize. After the Gospel proclaiming by Francis S Musa followed by public interactions, a total of 42 men and women believed and were baptized in the Boya River on 05/02/2024. This means that a new congregation born in this village. The following week after the Sunday service 11 people accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as their savior, and were immediately baptized for the forgiveness of sins.

P.S: When the news arrived, that the village was delighted by the strong mobilization and massive adhesion of the population of the village of Sandia to the Church of Christ. The Protestant church, which was the first to join, disturbed, so they dispatched a mission of 8 motorcycles to intimidate people into not subscribing to their former church (Protestant). But their move was in vain. So they demanded by force the portion of land offered to them to build the hall of worship.

To avoid arguments, the entire village, now mostly members of the Church of Christ, agreed to cede the compromised plot. Noted that the Protestant church has a portion of land in Sandia, but no members. 

For according to information, only 3 persons remain as their members.

In the same vein, we also note the conversion of 3 persons through the personal evangelism of certain current students, namely Balla Frangadouno in Kendessoua and Saa Jules Simbiano in Yassadou. 

He also had baptism of a young couple from the family of our brother Saa Robert Kamano, following his exhortations.

III-Restoration of the Bardou church

In 2022, during an evangelistic campaign, a team led by Emmanuel Kamano visited the village of Bardou. 

For three days, they evangelized door-to-door and held a public meeting. With the support of the Holy Spirit, 24 people believed and were baptized in the name of Jesus. Thus began the church of Christ in this village. 

But due to a lack of preachers, the congregation faltered. 

On 24/02/2024, the evangelism team of Koundou Lengo Bengou , coordinated by Francis Musa, went to restore the church. During 2 days of exhortations, they succeeded in convincing and reanimating their faith. 

There were also 5 people who obeyed the Gospel baptized, and the Lord added them to his Church.

IV- History of the Church in Sandia 

Sandia is a village located about 5 km north of the town of Gueckedou, at an elevation of 200m.

The population is Kissi and their main activity is agriculture.

 Before the arrival of the Church of Christ, the majority of the population had been Protestant Christians since 1990. 

Following visits by Eloi Tolno the preacher of the Fassaba congregation, who held religious debates with certain people, they became interested in the doctrine of the Church of Christ. As a result, his evangelism team, accompanied by Francis S Musa and financially assisted by our coordinator Steven Ashcraft, went out to do a public evangelism on 05/02/2024. Resulting in the conversion of 42 people, and the beginning of a new congregation of the Lord's church.

Conclusion

February was a very productive month for evangelism. 

A new congregation was planted and 60 people received their passport to the kingdom of God through baptism in the name of Jesus.

We are grateful to God the omnipotent for his assistance through the Holy Spirit in the successful realization of our evangelistic programs.

We would also like to thank Bear Valley International, our main financial partner, who ensures the smooth running of the school both financially and materially.

We also thank our coordinator Steven Ashcraft, for his strategic management of evangelism and administrating of Bear Valley School in Gueckedou. He is always ready and willing to provide for the financial and material needs of evangelism.

We thank the coordinator of the evangelism teams in Guinea Francis S Musa and the team leader of Yaradou Kongonani Eloi Tolno for their commitment to the Lord's work.

We thank Barry Baggott and his team for the biblical literature they send us for evangelism and useful for the edification of the members.

We also thank the brothers and sisters of the congregations from near and far who contribute whatever they can to the progress of the Church of Christ in Guinea.

We close by quoting this passage from the Bible which reads<< So, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, working better and better at the Lord`s work, knowing that your labor will not be in vain in the Lord>>. 1 Corinthians 15:58

Many activities in Nigeria

February 2024 REPORT

Beloved in Christ Jesus,

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

Below is the summary of our activities for the month of February 2024.

OVERVIEW

A month Vocational Studies/Break

Students resume for 3rd Semester Sesion

Compilation of some of my teaching and preaching

Solemnization of Holy Matrimony of two of our graduates

VOTI and How God speaks Book Aid in conversions

Nigerian request for more Mission Printing Tracts for Evangelism

Chad Wagner 's Open Hall Commissioned.

World Video Bible School program 

A MONTH VOCATIONAL STUDIES/BREAK

All our students and some instructors were actively participated in weekend evangelism outreach during the one month vocational studies/break of January 20 through Feb. 16,2024 in their respective locations.

Report reaching the school from both the students and the instructors shows the conversion of seven souls and restoration of ten erring brethren.

THIRD SEMESTER SESSION BEGINS

As the Lord will have it, our 3rd semester studies for 2023/24 session began on Feb 19,2024 with 28(twenty eight) students.

The instructors for this semester are: Bro. Eniafe Olukayode,Bro Isaac Olaniyan,Bro. Makinde John,Bro Samuel Effiong, Bro. Israel Tajomavwo,Bro. Odeyemi Durojaiye,and myself (Bro. Makinde Ebens), Bro Folorunsho Richard and Sis. Oyenuga Esther will continue to serve as Computer instructors

SOLEMNIZATION OF HOLY MATRIMONY OF TWO OF OUR YEAR 2021 GRADUATES:

 Two of our graduates from the class of 2021 have recently tied the knot. Bro. Imbia Maxfied Eleganwe, hailing from the English-speaking region of Cameroon, exchanged vows with Sister Deborah Fashola from the Gbagi congregation in Ibadan. Their union was solemnization on February 17, 2024, at the SDP headquarters in Egbeda Local Government Area, Oyo State. The registry formalities took place there, followed by an engagement and marriage ceremony held in an open space in the Iyana Agbala area of Ibadan, spanning from 12:55 pm to 3:48 pm.

The event was attended by witnesses including some graduates from BVBIN & SWSE-IBADAN, as well as members of the Lord's church from Gbagi, Kube, Mile 12- Lagos, Mile 12.5 - Lagos, along with friends and relatives of the Fashola family.

May the Lord bless their union abundantly and grant them a fruitful life together in Christ Jesus. Amen.

VOTI AND HOW GOD SPEAKS BOOK AID IN CONVERSIONS

A report reaching our office in Ibadan from some of the recipients of VOTI Vol. 117 & 118 and the recent book 'How God Speaks' shows that eighteen souls(18) were converted and thirty seven erring brethren were restored between December 2023 and February 18th, 2024, in both the Eastern and Western parts of the country, Nigeria, through the use of the Voice of Truth booklet and 'How God Speaks

NIGERIAN BRETHREN NEED MORE MISSION PRINTING TRACTS:

Over 80% of brethren in Nigeria are requesting for Mission Printing tracts and gospel literature for their weekend evangelism outreach. For example, many of the WBSFUW/evangelists who attended this year's Great Workshop in NCBC Ukpom-Aba, Akwa-Ibom State, have expressed a need for cartons of the small Songs Book produced by Mission Printing, as well as trifolds tracts focusing on "What can I do to be saved?" and other Mission Printing booklets for evangelizing both rural and urban areas, and for nurturing young congregations and brethren across the country.

We extend our gratitude for the dedication of Brother Richard Renfro, President of Mission Printing International, for his unwavering commitment to serving the Lord through the printed page and for his swift response to this pressing need.

CHAD WAGNER 'S OPEN HALL COMMISSIONED:

The staff and students of BVBIN & SWSE-IBADAN, led by me, Bro. Makinde, officially inaugurated the 2023/24 Capital Project (Chad Wagner's Open Hall) on February 26th.

The service was conducted by one of the instructors, Bro. Eniafe Olukayode, with opening prayers led by two students, Bro. Afolabi Olajide Emmanuel and Bro. Ogaji Isaac Emmanuel.

I, Bro. Makinde, had the privilege to cut the ribbon and formally commission the Hall for God's usage in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Refreshments, including soft drinks and biscuits, were served to all participants following the ceremony. To God be the glory.

The closing prayer was offered by the class captain, Bro. Akanmu Solomon. 

WVBS CLASS UPDATE:

Students have resumed their studies with the World Video Bible School class on February 18th and 25th, from 7:30 to 8:30 PM. Twenty-eight students and four instructors attended the first and second classes, focusing on Matthew 5:1-16, exploring the theme of the Light of the World.

To facilitate learning, the school authority downloaded the initial five lessons on "The Light of the World" from the World Video Bible School Apps for both students and staff within the school community. These sessions are scheduled for every Sunday evening.

We extend our gratitude to WVBS for their valuable contribution to our educational endeavors.

 ABOUT A STUDENT

Bro Emmanuel David Etta is one of our year-1 students, born on Oct. 26th, 2006 in Odon’gunyan-Ikorodu,Lagos State. He got baptized by Bro. Okoro Chinyere in 2021 at Ikorodu-Lagos, got admitted into our Ministerial department on August 2022.

He is presently assisting the Lord’s church at Egbeda-Ibadan every weekend.

His mission after his tertiary education is to be one of the competent servant of God in his local church

OUR ACCOMPLISHMENT

With the support from Austin Chapel Congregation and others, we were able to get 30,000 copies of six our local tracts printed for this year Evangelism outreach for the use of the School and young congregation within the Western States of Nigeria.

Conclusion: Thanks again for your partnership, encouragement and support. May the Lord continue to bless all our work together in Christ Jesus name, amen.

Sincerely yours in His Grace & Love as a servant...... Makinde Ebenezer Olufemi 

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

Improvements in Liberia

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE

LIBERIA

January 2024 Operation Report

 INTRODUCTION

Another New Year has come meeting us in good health and sound mind by the grace of God to continue the Lord's work as per His commands. We say Happy and a prosperous new year to you all. We remain thankful to God Almighty for His grace, and many blessing He keeps bestowing upon us daily. We are also appreciative to all that are making it possible through their selfless sacrifices for the sake of God’s Kingdom.

SCHOOL RESUMED

After a long break from September 30, 2023 to January 2024, The Bear Valley Bible Institute-Liberia resumed normal school operations on January 22, 2024.

Students Orientation started January 15-19, 2024 with Nine (9) students in attendance. Classes began with ten (10) students out of the eighteen (18) registered students on January 22, 2024.

2024 QUARTER ONE COURSES AND INSTRUCTORS

 Our 1st quarter begins after the break with the following courses and assigned instructors.

1.     Research & writing ----------------------------- Bro. Alpha Beweh

2.     How we got the Bible ---------------------------- Bro. Fester G. Lee

3.     God’s Scheme of Redemption ------------------ Bro. T. Joel Weah

4.     Old Testament I ----------------------------------- Bro. O.D.K. Zakamah

5.     Personal Evangelism I --------------------------- Bro. Thomas B. Jimmy

6.     Christian Evidences ------------------------------ Bro. Fester G. Lee

7.     General Agriculture ------------------------------ Bro. Samuel B.K. Jabaty

8.     Computer Class -------------------------------- Anstrong Dolopyie 

Preparing to move the school to Sanniquellie

The four months break after Batch three (3)’s graduation came as a result of a decision of the Bear Valley Bible Institute Denver Colorado authority through Bro. Steven Ashcraft the West African Coordinator to relocate the School from Ganta to Sanniquellie City, The Capital of Nimba County. The break was meant to give us time to prepare for the relocation.

However, due to the delay in preparing the Sanniquellie Building to host the school, the BVBI-L administration in consultation with Bro. Steven Ashcraft, came up with a consensus to resume classes in Ganta while the Sanniquellie preparation goes on for continuation of normal school activities. As it stands, said building is nearing completion and hopefully, the second term or quarters two of Batch Four (4) year one which begins April 22, 2024 will start in Sanniquellie.  

REPLACEMENT OF INSTRUCTORS

The BVBI-L administration in consultation with Bro. Steven Ashcraft has appointed two instructors for replacement. Bro. Samuel B.K. Jabaty to replaced Mr. Meanto Bembo the Agriculture instructor who is not prepared to move to Sanniquellie and Bro. Thomas B. Jimmy Dean Of Students to replace Fester G. Lee.

STUDENT’s PROFILE

Ezekiel S. Penzue is one of the students of the fourth batch. He is passionate about his study of the word of God and his desire to become a Gospel Preacher. Penzue was born on Tuesday January 23, 2001 in Gbayblin town, Nimba County Liberia. He was working with the local congregation in His home town. He became a Christian in March 2022. His love for God and for the truth brought him to attend the Bear Valley Bible Institute. When asked of his future plans and dreams, he said firstly, He wants to be an Evangelist of the Lord's church and he also want to become an educator.

CONCLUSION:

Without your love for God and your constant support, we won't have come this far with the huge work we have here. Please accept our heartfelt gratitude for spiritual and financial assistance. We are eternally grateful to each and every of you. To God be the glory, praise and honor.

Kind Regards

Fester G. Lee

Director, BVBI-Liberia

43 more baptisms in Malawi

Bear Valley Bible Institute

Ekwendeni - Malawi

Introduction

We are of great joy to be back at school again after a long holiday. The students are happy to start their many assignments, memory work again and many quizzes . 

It is amazing to hear from the students how their holiday never enjoyed as a holiday. With the reports they have shared, no one seems was just resting. Everyone was busy, preaching, teaching and more to this farming making sure they have food for their families. But the good news is that they have reported 30 souls restored during holiday and 43 baptisms. We are proud of them for the good work they are doing. This makes the school to be recognized by those who hears them teach and preach.

Teaching

We are in our second year, and at the end of this year this class we are having will graduate. The work of teaching is at its boiling point. This being the final year for our students we are making it possible that they are taught the remaining courses in time. In this month of February, 2 courses have already been done.

Evangelism

As stated in the introduction part, the students have been preaching and teaching during their holiday session which resulted into 43 souls being added to the Lord's church and 30 more restored. We had 21 students and now we are having 17. The 4 students have dropped out of school due to other issues about their families, which we couldn't get involved for them to stay at school. But we pray that one day they will think of coming back to finish their studies. The report about 30 restoration and 43 baptisms is from our 17 students home congregations and places where they have been going preaching and teaching.

Prayers needed,

We ask your prayers as our country Malawi is experiencing dry spell in many areas which gives fears of having hunger this year through next year. Our students being bread winners in their homes they are deeply worried. But we hope God will not allow His people to starving . We need to approach Him in prayers .

We are thankful to the Bear Valley Bible Institute International and the Hillcrest church. We appreciate the love, support and many prayers you offer for this work! Your partnership with Hillcrest church is helping us greatly. We always need your involvement in this work of saving souls to Christ and training men become faithful preachers. As long as there are people who cannot find their way, we have the responsibility! Eternity Is Forever Think Souls!

Your fellow workers in Christ;

Ephron and Clergynton

Tirupati, India students learn the personal side of evangelism

Reporting Letter for the month of February-2024

Respected Keith kasarjian our director, Mr. Markreynolds our coordinator and all the prayers partners of BVBI- Tirupati-India -extension Centre greetings to you in the name of Jesus Christ. We pray that this letter may serve us to find you well. We sincerely thankful to you for your prayers and encouragement for the smooth and successful function of BVBI ‘s extension centre at Tirupati. I would like to share brief report for the month of February-2024.

Classroom work:-   Our classes are running seriously and educating young people in India for eternal life. Teachers are very much dedicated to complete the syllabus prescribed by the BVBI. Appreciative students are dedicated to study the word of God and share with others (2 Timothy 2:2).

Students involvement in the  distribution of Bible correspondence course :- We are happy to share with you that world Bible School bible correspondence course is very much useful to distribute and help new souls to win for Christ . We have started this bible correspondence course distribution work where students and faculty are actively involved.

Bible Seminar:- We have conducted 2 days bible seminar in the month of February first week 2nd and 3rd. We have selected the book of Romans . The Theme of the seminar was “Gospel of  God”. We have presented these following topics 1. Paul , the apostle of God, 2. The righteousness of God , 3. The Gospel of God , 4. The love of God, 5. Faith, works and grace of God.6. The Mind of God , 7. The spirit of God, 8. The gift of God, 9. The Peace of God and 10. Born of God . Our beloved brother Mr. Damon Vincent presented 4 topics, and we had six Indian speakers for the seminar. Bear Valley students and staff have cooperated with the local church for the grand success of the meeting.  We are very much delighted to share with you that we had more 120 people for the seminar who were benefited for their spiritual growth.  We share with you that Mr. Damon Vincent has prepared excellent study material and translated into Telugu  and distributed to all the participants .

Conversions :- In the month of February 3 souls were baptized and added to the body of Christ. We request you to pray for the newly baptized souls so that they may grow in the image of His son Jesus Christ.

Two memorial services :- In the month of February we were able to visit two places for the comfort of the families.  First one was a  teenage girl was died with cancer  in last one year back. The family members had get together meeting on February 1st  as memorial of the girl. We travelled about 100 miles to attend for the meeting and comforted  the family members, local church and village people.  We appreciate Mr.Damon Vincent for encouraging them by preaching from Psalms 23.  The other one was our church member Mr. Sudheer died with heart stroke,  they had memorial meeting . We visited their family members and offered prayers for the family members.

Engagement t Event:-   On February 1 st evening we organized an engagement that helped students learn to give better service for the local church members.

Restored one local church:- One of the local preachers has been sick, this effects the church ministry to be dull, we visited this local church on February 6th and restored the work by encouraging the preacher’s family members and church members.

Women seminar :-  One of the local churches at Venkatagiri town has conducted women bible seminar on February 10th. Saturday. We attended for the seminar and presented a topic “the role of the women in the local church”.

Zoom meeting:- Tirupati Church of Christ & Bear Valley Bible Institute are conducting zoom meeting on every Thursday at 7am , we have 76 members in our zoom connection. There are other new members who are interested to join. We request you to pray for this zoom meeting.  Right now we are studying the book of Acts.

US visitors:- We are happy to share with you that in the month of February four brothers and two  sisters visited our  town from Graymere Church of Christ and Foothills Church of Christ . We all met at our Tirupati Church of Christ’s church building. All our students and staff were able to attend for the meeting. We have received good encouragement by their fellowship and preaching.

Benevolence:- In the month of February we drilled 2 bore wells and  conducted one A.G. Work shop by partnership of Healing Hands International. This benevolence work helps people to get clean drinking water and healthy organic vegetables  . Ever grateful to HHI for their great efforts and love for neediest people.

We trhink BVBI is the best platform to educate young people. We are ever grateful for your continual prayers and encouragement. We need your continual prayers and encouragement.  We love you and appreciate your love.

Thanking you.

Yours brother in Christ.

Vijay&staff from BVBI-extension centre –Tirupati-India

Nearing another graduation in Zimbabwe

FEBRUARY 2024 NARRATIVE REPORT

INTRODUCTION

February was a very busy month at BVBIZ. Since this February was the second from the last month before the 2022-2024 class goes for their final attachment, serious effort was put in classes. Parallel classes proceeded on as well. Progress was also registered on the projects and infrastructure side of things. These and more are reported hereunder.

1.0  CURRICULUM PROGRESS

By the ending of February, several subjects were done and completed. These include; Preacher’s life and work, Church administration and governance, Strategic Management for churches, Teacher training, Bible Geography and Christian Evaluation of contemporary ethics. A few others are still ongoing. Great appreciation goes to both teachers and students for the efforts they put in to ensure the smooth flow of classes. Weekend evangelism continued as well. Some of the congregation that benefited in February include Lot 64, Choto in Gokwe, Shurugwi, Nashville, Kwekwe and Plasworth.

PART TIME CLASS

The 2021 class has progressed well in terms of its classes.  Their practicum has also continued in various areas. The October 2023 class has continued on the same path as well. This last class has two batches. The first class is done at Dzivarasekwa in Harare whilst another one is at Nhowe Mission in Macheke. The Nhowe class delayed to start but had its first class in February 2024. Twelve students are expected to make up the class. More details to follow in the subsequent reports.

2.0  GREATER HARARE LADIES REQUEST

The women’s fellowship in Harare had been facing a few challenges in their fellowship. Some of these are doctrinal with others having to do with their roles in church. They came up with their program and requested BVBIZ to send some teachers to help them teach and clarify issues. Though this is not at BVBIZ program, the school was willing to assist. Lovemore Manyanhaire, was the first teacher. The venue for the classes is Highfields Church of Christ and classes are done one Saturday per month for 12 months.

AMBASSADORS DAY

The 24th of February was a BVBIZ ambassador’s’ day. Of the 10 ambassadors. 6 succeeded in coming to the school with some arriving on the 23rd whilst others arrived early morning on the 24th for their day. Those who came include brothers Nqobani Ndlovu, Tawanda Chimedza, George Muhura, Lovemore Manyanhaire, Tinashe Mazhambe and Ovious Kufa. The team interacted with management and several discussions took place to shape this important office. The school always appreciates this team for working closely with the school in various areas.                                                   

3.0  PROJECTS

Projects remain an integral part in the training of preachers. They give the school an opportunity to provide hands on experience to them besides the theory they learn in class. They also enable the school to provide better nutrition to the students including giving an extra dollar to the school when sales are made. In the month of February, sales were realized in cabbages, eggs, tomatoes, okra, covo, maize and green paper.      

4.0  INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT

There was movement in the area of infrastructure in February. Great appreciation to Woodland Oaks Church of Christ for providing money towards some specific needy areas. These areas are reported below;

6.1 TEACHERS HOUSE

The teacher’s house had remained incomplete for a few years. Outstanding issues included the floors, solar system, ceiling and painting. The solar system was the one that was installed first. It has 8 solar panels, a 5KVA inverter and lithium battery. The ceiling was next then followed by the floor tiles. Painting could not be done as the first three developments took more funds than anticipated.

6.2 CLASSROOM BLOCK

Preparations to lay the foundation of the much anticipated classroom block are at an advanced stage. We are currently waiting for the approval of the plan. Work should commence in March. Most of the material needed for the foundation have been acquired and a builder identified.                                         

7.3 FENCE

The school site had remained open since 2018 when we got the land. A great need to protect the investments being made was there for all to see. Both people and animals would walk freely inside the property. Cattle in particular would cause havoc on our grounds and projects. This is becoming a thing of the past as half of the land is being fenced. 500m shall be covered with a diamond fence whilst 470m shall be covered using game/field fence.

8.0 MATTRESSES

Through the assistance from Woodland Oaks Church of Christ, the school was able to acquire 20 quality mattresses. The ones that were in use had been with us since the inception of the school in 2016 and were slowly becoming unusable. Challenges were also being seen whenever numbers increase. This will now be a thing of the past as 20 single mattresses have been acquired.

9.0 MAY 2024 INTAKE

Recruitment for the May 2024 intake is still in progress. From the interviews done, 11 prospective students have been accepted. Four more slots remain.

CONCLUSION

Having looked at what BVBIZ could do in the month of February, we conclude by expressing our gratitude to everyone who made this possible. Your financial, moral and spiritual support is greatly appreciated. May God bless you all!

New church planted in Uganda

We give thanks to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,  praying for you always, for your strength which originates from God our Father, which makes this work a success. Greetings from the students and the entire staff at large at the Bear Valley family in Uganda here.

The school is steadily progressing and students are taking their classes as usual. Concerning the academic,  I thank the staff both non-teaching and the teaching. They are working hand in hand for the betterment of the school, men who are laboring to see that these preachers are equipped with every good work. They work tirelessly for the good of these men and the furthering of the gospel. 

We are happy to report to you that this time round we haven't had any cases of our students getting sick. They are all in good health.

Reports coming from our alumni  gives us courage that our labor did not go in vain. Three of the men joined efforts and planted a new congregation where they stayed four days doing door-to-door preaching.  Keep on praying for them in the field. 

Where there are good things, challenges will always find a way to come in. I lost my paternal Uncle,  who died  a sudden death,  and was a member of my home congregation, Maliba church of Christ.  The man has left children some of whom are very helpless.  Pray for brother William’s family. 

On the academic side, we are pleading for the library, it will increase on the performance of our students.  Reading books if possible. It is difficult to be a great student without a library.  If we are anticipating for the e-library,  it our request that you provide us with five sets of computers such that our men are equipped fully with the best knowledge. 

The problem of high prices in commodities, if any thing can be done to help us. And also water being the greatest of all. We spend a lot of money on water which affects our budget. 

Thank you once again.

Your brother in Christ,

Raymond

Bear Valley President and Coordinator visit Kisumu

Dear brethren,

I hope this email finds everyone generally well in the Lord. We at KSOP have on this Friday 1st  of March 2024, closed the school for break. Our Bible students have left already and we pray for their journey mercies. We will begin classes again from April 8th, 2024.

This quarter had began very well with two instructors from Bear Valley Bible Institute: Dr. Denny Petrillo and Dr. Michael Reese. These two,  in the first two weeks, taught two courses in the undergraduate class and one graduate class as well. We appreciate their capability and willingness to occasionally grace this instituition with their Bible knowledge.

The local instructors we appreciate as well , Charles and Phabian, who have taught Greek II, Bible Geography and World Religions. May the Almighty God cause His face to shine on them all into eternity.

This time,  even though the school was not able send the students to help local congregations, some went to visit sister congregations and baptized 4 souls into Christ.

I have attached some pictures of the students and their teachers outside the hall, of the 4 baptisms, of students taking with themselves boxes of tracts meant for evangelism and of us all sitted together at a Chapel time, with our graduate class students and American instructors present.

May the good  Lord bless  abundantly  your efforts which you have towards the Kenya school of Preaching and elsewhere for his name's sake.

Thanks so much and be blessed forevermore, 

In His service,  

Elias Omollo.

More souls added to the church in Zambia

February 2024

Report

INTRODUCTION

Warm greetings to you all Brothers and Sisters! We give honor and glory to God our heavenly Father who has granted us this rare opportunity to work in His Vineyard.

This report has been written in an effort to provide some insights into the accomplishments that Bear Valley Bible Institute-Zambia has continued to experience throughout the month of February, 2024.

Students return

Since we resumed classes in this final year of studies for our current students here at Bear valley Bible Institute. They have all but one reported and they are diligent in their work.

Arnold Silangwa has not yet reported due to some hardships that he is going through at home. As we reported in our previous reports, the passing away of his only daughter has really affected him immensely. We continue asking your prayers for Arnold and his entire family.

Crisis in Zambia

Zambia is currently facing a serious crisis with the challenges of the economy, while the disease outbreaks such as cholera, Covid 19 etc is slowing down. The country is also passing through the worst cost of living in many decades. We understand that these hardships are not happening only in Zambia but globally. 

At present, the nation is facing the threat of food insecurity following the drought in almost all the Provinces of Zambia. The report from the Ministry of Agriculture in Zambia says that the prolonged dry spell in the nation has affected nearly 84 of 116 districts with one million of total of 2.2 million estimated planted hectors across the country being affected.

The weather forecasters have also announced that there will be some rains in some parts of the country. But these rains will not mitigate the already ravaged crops. Without other interventions, Zambia might face hunger once again. That is why the President of Zambia and other stakeholders have declared this as an emergency and a national disaster. We continue to solicit for your prayer regarding this state of affairs.

Bear Valley Bible Institute Zambia invited

We were invited as a school by Twapia church of Christ leadership to conduct some series of lessons on “Eldership.” The lessons were taught to Twapia congregation for four consecutive Sundays. We as evangelists from Bear Valley Bible Institute were honored to teach at the said congregation in Ndola

And they had set 3rd March as the day for ordination.  This ordination came to pass in a very colorful way, most of the current serving Elders among the Lord’s church here on the Copperbelt province were invited to attend.

Bible Studies

The students have continued with their personal evangelism. They have come in contact of many people through this avenue. Once again forty-two households have been contacted and had Bible studies with them. And they have set up notable Bible studies with a number of people in nearby communities. They have also continued conducting the mid-week service at Mikomfwa church of Christ and this service is bearing much fruit now.

During these studies we came in contact with people from Mpongwe district, Mpongwe district is 65 kilometers south of Luanshya district, we have continued to do evangelism in this area and we have already planted a new congregation. It was very easy for us to direct these people to our newly established congregation there. It is indeed a great thing to note that our students have really grown so much in the work that they desperately want to graduate and be more in the vineyard of our Master.

Baptisms-

We have recorded three Baptisms in Baluba of Luanshya District, and we have also recorded two baptisms in Kitwe district of Kanfinsa.

Restorations-

We have had thirteen (13) restoration just in Luanshya district and three in northern part of Zambia. Together we have recorded sixteen (16)

Sad news!

We lost a brother who was very committed at the church of Christ in Mikomfwa Luanshya brother Uegen Ponga. We had three days of mourning and as an Institute we took our students there for the encouragement to the family and the community at large. Six of our students had time to preach the gospel to the gathered people for three days after classes; once again we had a great response and follow ups are being made now.

May our God continue to strengthen the family the brother has left in this world.

Visiting of Bear Valley Bible Institute International Coordinator (Donnie Estep)

We look forward to the visit of our Coordinator Brother Donnie Estep in March 2024. As scheduled, Brother Donnie will arrive in Zambia on 18th March, 2024. He will be teaching a short course during his visit. It is always a wonderful time to have Donnie come and pay us a visit. May God continue blessing all his efforts! 

Conclusion

Thank you kindly to all who have continued helping with the training of these men for the deep and meaningful task of preaching the Gospel. Special thanks go to Woodland Oaks Church of Christ for their continued financial support, Bear Valley Bible Institute family and indeed everyone involved in this very important work. May our God continue to bless you all! 

 Brotherly,

Cephas and Fred 

Students in Takoradi begin second year of training

OPERATIONAL REPORT FOR JANUARY, 2024

Dear Brethren,

This is our report for the month of January.                                        

1.     CLASSROOM WORK

The students resumed on Monday, 15th January, 2024 as indicated in the last report. Tuesday was used as a cleaning day. They cleaned their rooms and the campus.

Classes started on Wednesday, 17th January. This is the first term of the 2nd year, meaning that they will complete the school at the end of this year. We are happy to announce that, we have admitted a new student this year. The number of regular students now stands at nine (9).

Teaching and learning has begun and the students are going to be taken through courses like, hermeneutics-2, homiletics-2, life of Christ-3, Old Testament-4 and Preacher and his work.

The part-time students have also resumed classes; they did that on Saturday, 13th January 2024. They wrote examinations on some of the courses they did before the end of year break. Now the courses they are studying are epistles of John and Jude and denominational doctrines.

2.     PERSONAL EVANGELISM AND BAPTISM

A new year is upon us and our good God has given us strength to continue with the work of evangelism. Our current and past students are seriously spreading the good news of salvation. In order to inculcate the spirit and attitude of evangelism into our current students, Mondays are now used for personal evangelisms. The students go out into nearby communities to spread the good news. So far, many people have heard the gospel and God has blessed their effort with a soul.

There was a week-long evangelism organized by the Church at Nsein where Douglas Armah preaches. He invited nineteen (19) old students of the school to help him out. Many people were privileged to hear the undiluted word of God during the public preaching as it was live on a radio station. The Lord has so far added ten (10) souls to His Church.

Old students are still using social media and other avenues to proclaim the gospel.

Evangelism in Togo

Report for January 2024

After the end-of-year and end-of-first-year exams, the students were dismissed on December 22, 2023. They were in groups for public evangelism in TCHABOM and the Nyivème district. A good result marked the end of each part with 2 baptisms in Kpalimé and 4 baptisms in TCHABOM. It was on these activities that they left to resume classes on January 15, 2024. Last year, the eighth promotion began classes in January 2023, and has just successfully completed one year. We are counting on God's help for the second year, which will last 12 months.

Students:

Numbering 15, they started until December 22, 2023, when they went on leave. When classes resumed, one student from BLITA and two students from ATAKPAME did not return. According to the student from BLITA, his wife prevents him from returning to Kpalimé, because his wife and children are neglected, the children are often ill, and the family lacks the means to support the children at school. The two students from ATAKPAME went to Lomé and haven't come back since, but they may be prevented from doing so by family matters.

Friday evangelism:

Never losing sight of the objective for which they have been at the Bible Institute for a year, the students are still in ZOMAYI every Friday to plant a new one planned for this year 2024. A woman has just been baptized and 4 people in TEMEDJA.

Zone evangelism (teams).

On Tuesdays, evangelists from the Kpalimé zone, every Thursday for evangelists from the KPELE zone, and on Tuesdays, evangelists from the AGOU zone take to the streets and homes to reach every person with the gospel. Evangelists from the Atakpamé and TEMEDJA zones continue their evangelizing mission in AMLAME. In TSEVIE, the team works every Monday and Tuesday. In Lomé, the team's evangelism work varies according to the neighborhood and the program established for each month.

1. Zone Kpalimé

2. Zone KPELE

3. Zone AGOU

4. Zone ATAKPAME

5. Zone TSEVIE

6. Zone LOME

7. Zone AMAKPAPE

BVBI :

The program 8th Class, 2nd year

Part one:

1. RTAO (Traditional Religion of West Africa): ESPERANCE

2. I&II Corinthians : ESPERANCE

3. Gospel according to John: ATTAH

4. Galatians to 2 Thessalonians: ATTAH

5. Hebrews: CEPHAS

6. Denominational Doctrine: CEPHAS

Public evangelism:

As part of this year's program to promote evangelism in Togo and encourage evangelizing teams, an evangelistic campaign is planned in DALAVE and TSEVIE from February 29 to March 2, 2024.

Denomination program:

A pastor from the "foursquare" church in BURKINA-FASSO is so interested in training that he has asked to come to Kpalimé for Bible training. Through the evangelist ESPERANCE, the pastor has been trying for a long time to get the Church of Christ to come to BURKINA.

1. They are numerous and he is looking for training

2. There is a possibility of starting a program to teach denominational people in BURKINA.

3. Plant the churches of Christ by converting denomination churches with their pastors.

4. In a short time, set up work teams (evangelism) in BURKINA and join the program recently established in LIBERIA.

5. Some students (denominations) wanted to come from Niger, so we can also extend to NIGER.

A challenge

The denomination program is a challenge for us to go further with denominational leaders, and above all it is a very effective form of evangelism.

MOTORCYCLES

The price of the motorcycles is 680,000 f cfa, we need them for the work of the teams in Togo and also a tricycle.

NEED: students need glasses to read lectures

Thanks, your brother in Christ,

CEPHAS

Many more conversions in Nigeria

Beloved in Christ Jesus.

Compliment of the season to all our supporters and well wishers from students and staff of BVBIN & SWSE-Ibadan. Here are some of our activities for the month of January 2024:

OVERVIEW:

1- End of the year program results to conversions of many

2- Second semester classes concluded

3- Weekend Evangelism Outreach

4- Great Workshop 2024

END OF THE YEAR PROGRAM

The just concluded end of the year program that begins on December 20,2023 through January 05, 2024 at Oyo, Ogun,Osun,Lagos,Kwara and Edo States of Nigeria was crowned with fifteen conversion and ten restoration according to the report from both the students and the instructors.

SECOND SEMESTER CLASSES CONCLUDED:

All classes and examinations for second semester of 2023/24 session came to an end as scheduled on January 19,2024.

Bro. Eniafe Olukayode handled Evangelism-2 and OTP(Major); Bro. Odeyemi Durojaiye handled Acts of the Apostles and Hermeneutics -2; Bro. Makinde John handled, How We Got The Bible and Basic Bible Doctrine; Bro. Samuel Effiong handled World Religions, Book of James and Cost of Discipleship; Bro. Israel Tajomavwo handled Christain Evidence and Hermeneutics-1,, Bro. Isaac Olaniyan handled Life of Christ-2(Mark) and Galatians(Relation to Hebrew); Bro Makinde Ebens handled Homiletics 1&2  and Ministerial Counseling; while Bro Folorunsho Richard and Sister Oyenuga Esther were our computer operators.

The students are now on a month vocational studies. All students, according to the school tradition are expected to assist the congregations around their study center in evangelism and other church activities during their one month vocational studies.

Third Semester classes will begin Lord’s willing on February 19, 2024

WEEKEND EVANGELISM OUTREACH

All our students were actively involved in this month weekend evangelism outreach in Butubutu,Jago,Ibadan,Badeku,Egbeda,Ajia,Felele-Rab,Asejire-Osun State,Ayekale-Kwara state,Ifo-Ogun tate,Owode-Yewa-Ogun State,Benin-Edo State,Lagos Island-Lagos State and Aramoko-Ekiti State.

Even though, no restoration was recorded in this month weekend outreach, nevertheless, we thank the Lord for adding eleven souls to His body and giving us an opportunity to be a tool in His kingdom.

GREAT WORKSHOP 2024

2024’s Great Workshop for ministers of God in Southern States of Nigeria and some Northern part of our country,Nigeria, such as Benue, Nasarawa ,FCT- Abuja and Taraba ,came up at the premises of Nigerian Christian Bible College (NCBC),Ukpom-Abak,Akwa-Ibom State between January 22 and 27,2024.This year workshop focused on Evangelism through the WBS program . About 600 brethren from 25 states of the Republic of Nigeria graced the occasion.

2,000 copies of VOTI Vol.118, 2,000 copies of How God Speaks Gospel literatures and many other materials were freely distributed to all the participants of this year Great Workshop.

The BVBIN & SWSE-Ibadan and WBS-Ibadan and Osun were represented by five ministers.

Some of the dignitaries at this year Great workshop were Bro. Monday J. Akpakpan(The National Coordinator of WBS-Nigeria), Bro Chad Wagner (The International Coordinator of WBSFUW-Nigeria), Bro .Brain Davis (International President of WBS) , Archer Horner, Bro. Biodun Owolabi (The President of WNCC and SBS, Abeokuta, Ogun state)and many others.

ABOUT A STUDENT

Bro. Osarenren Nosakhare Joshua is presently in his two years of studies with BVBIN &SWSE-Ibadan, born on May 19,1999 at Eyaen Community of Benin City in Edo State, converted into Christianity at Ogbesan Congregation,Benin,Edo State where Bro John Ehimiyein and Bro Robert Ekpe is ministering.

His mission after his study is to assist and planting of the Lord’s Church in rural area of Edo State where the Lord’s church does not exist.

CONCLUSION:

From the bottom of our heart, we write to appreciate you all for being there for us in time of our needs. May the Lord of blessings continue to bless all our work together in Christ Jesus Name, Amen.

I remain yours in His Grace & Love as a servant, 

Makinde Ebenezer Olufemi

The Chief Servant of BVBIN & SWSE-IBADAN and WBSFUW 

Off to a great start in Guinea

As always, we extend our warmest greetings in Christ.

Here is the activity report for January 2024

Introduction

One year passes, another follows with different events and realities. This report is the first of those that will follow for the rest of the eleven months of 2024. In the three following parts, teaching, evangelism, working visit ,we Bear Valley of Gueckedou give you the essence of the activities carried out during the 31 days of January 2024.

I-Teaching

After a 3-week vacation, we resumed classes on January 10, 2024.

Two courses were taught by two different teachers, one of whom was a visiting teacher.

The 2 courses are :

The Preacher and his Work, taught by Niouma 2 Kamano.

Ethics of Preachers taught by Balla Kamano.

Note that, Saa Michel Kamano was absent due to illness.

II-Evangelism

We are happy to see that every day, there are new citizens entering the kingdom of Christ through water baptism after believing in the Gospel of Jesus.

Many efforts, methods and strategies are deployed to carry out this activity, through which mankind can gain access to the kingdom of God.

A total of 10 persons men and women were baptized in the following villages

-Gbolonin, a village about 30 km from the northern town of Gueckedou.

-Yende Bawa, a village some 55 km from the town of Gueckedou in the south.

Through this report, we welcome the new converts to the kingdom of Christ.

III-Working visit

A people is strong when it is united in good cooperation.

This month we were visited by our coordinator Steven Ashcraft with a team of three Bible school Director :

Fidèle Bedjelsi from Togo

Cephas Nyemanta from Togo

Koffi Roger from Ivory Coast.

Their stay was very beneficial for us in Guinea.

During four days (25 to 28/01/2024), we shared our work experiences, and they were also able to resolve certains problems or misunderstandings between the brothers. That's also the beginning of good new season for the progress of God work in Guinea especially in Gueckedou.

IV-Suggestions and recommendations

We ask all our brothers and sisters in Christ to help us in prayers for unity and peace, without which we won't be able to do God's work effectively.

Let us also pray for the steadfastness of the new citizens of Christ's kingdom, so that nothing will shake their faith.

Conclusion

In view of the above-mentioned results, we continually give thanks to God for health and his protection in the spiritual warfare we are waging under his control.

We also thank Bear Valley International for their financial, material and spiritual support.

We also thank the brothers in Christ Fidèle, Cephas, both Togolese, and Koffi Roger from Ivory Coast for all their efforts during their stay to exhort and motivate brothers and sisters to work hand in hand for the progress of the Lord's Church.

We sincerely thank our coordinator Steven Ashcraft for his love in mobilizing financial and material means to boost evangelism in Guinea.

We would also like to thank all those who contribute in any way to the development of the Lord's Church in Guinea.

Finally, know that all the churches of Christ in Guinea greet you in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Niouma 2 Kamano

Administrative Assistant 

First ever graduation in Lilongwe!

Power-Packed Potential

Standing before you is the Class of 2023, the school’s very first graduates!  For at least 1,500 hours, the men have been immersed in the Word of God… searching, studying, and seeking to grasp its true meaning.  For over 350 hours, the women have done the same while also cooking, cleaning, and caring for their families.  They will never be the same!  Prayerfully, with the addition of seven more families in ministry, Malawi will never be the same!

Every Rose has a Thorn

The rose was in full-bloom as the students sat for final exams, took class pictures, and walked through the graduation ceremony.  Relationships were being knit together more and more tightly as everyone realized our time together was coming to an end.  

Dale’s final chapel talk was about building a R.A.F.T.  This acronym that stands for Reconciliation, Affirmation, Farewell, and Think Destination is a healthy way to leave.  It makes sure any hard feelings can be mended, those embarking on new territory as well as those who would remain behind could be encouraged, the painful goodbyes would be said, and all could look forward to being together in heaven again once our work on earth is done.

Immediately following graduation (Saturday), one family needed to leave.  In order to register their child for school, they had to be back in their home village the very next day.

The largest group of 5 families left together early Monday morning on a private bus that would take them to the largest city in the North.  It was a mass exodus of 22 people who had come as strangers but left with part of our hearts.

The final family stayed until Friday morning.  After receiving public school grades, they too packed up their things and left.  

This was the goal.  Students would come, grow as individual Christians, make life-long friends they could lean on in ministry, and then go home.  All of that has happened.  

What we didn’t fully anticipate is that with the curtains gone in the 10 houses, the lights that don’t come on, the jungle gym unoccupied, and no one meeting under the mango tree, we feel not only a sense of accomplishment but also a sense of loss in many areas of our lives.  We belonged in a village, as part of other people’s lives, and a part of something much bigger than we could have ever done.  

Please pray for our family as we feel the thorns that come with every rose.  We will need to grieve the loss of the departure of these 33 people in our daily lives in a healthy way so that when the next group of students comes another rose will bloom and fill our lives with its beauty.  

Supporting the Students

As we are between groups of students, we have two sets of people on our minds. One set includes those we know dearly, have walked beside, and are waiting to hear how God is going to use them to grow His kingdom.  The other set is the next student body whose names are unfamiliar and the mere mention of them doesn’t bring a flood of memories because we have yet to meet them.  Both need our support.

The recent graduates have returned to their homes and planted their farms and/or started back up the businesses they had before coming to the preaching school.  Every man had a job before he came to the school and was providing for his family so financial support is not what we mean when we say “supporting the students”.

Prayer is the best way to support the recent graduates.  These families are doing something even Jesus struggled to do… be effective in their own hometowns (Mark 6:4).  They have moved back to the same places they came from initially.  They are working among people who have known them in some cases since birth.  They need our prayers to keep studying and to keep growing spiritually so they can accurately handle the word of truth in each situation that presents itself (II Timothy 2:15).  The graduates also need our prayers as they strive to be the pillar and support of the truth as we learn the church should be from I Timothy 3:15.

The student applicants also need our support.  They have taken the first step by submitting an application which expresses their interest in being a student at the preaching school.  Like all of us, they don’t know what the future holds.  They don’t know the sacrifices it may take to transition well or what it will require of them to stay for the duration of the program. 

Next month we will begin student interviews.  We will be looking for the ones who are already working in the kingdom, have hearts characteristic of a servant, and seem most able to thrive despite whatever obstacles may arise.  

Please pray for the student applicants in these ways:

Honesty - telling the truth during the interview process

Transparency - identifying the foundational reasons they want to attend the school

Pliability - being able to adapt to a new culture (both physically and spiritually)

Humility - willing to put others before themselves

Teachability - accepting the truth even if it differs from their original understanding

Competency - showing whether they understand English (men) or Chichewa (women), respectively

Thanks for joining us in prayer on behalf of both types of students:  those who have just graduated and those who will be the next graduates from the Bear Valley Extension School - Lilongwe.  

Dale Kastner

Five more souls reached in Ghana

CAMPUS OF BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE INTERNATIONAL

SUNYANI, GHANA

REPORT FOR 4TH QUARTER (OCTOBER- DECEMBER)

INTRODUCTION

To God be the glory for the wonderful things He has done and for successfully  bringing us to the end of the fourth quarter of 2023. We are very grateful to Bear Valley Institute for their consistent support throughout the fourth quarter of the year 2023.

ACTIVITIES DURING THE FOURTH QUARTER OF 2023

I. COURSES TAUGHT

Three courses has been completed. These are;

The New Testament Church II, Homiletics II and Personal Evangelism II

II. STUDENTS VISITATION AND HOUSE TO HOUSE EVANGELISM

All students continued with visitation to their area congregations as well as  house to house evangelism which is still ongoing.

III. NUMBER OF BAPTISMS

Through the efforts of staff and students, five souls were baptized during the fourth quarter of 2023.

IV. PREPARATIONS FOR CHURCH PLANTING

The plan of planting a new church in the fourth quarter was not fulfilled in 2023.

Initially, the proposed location for the new church planting was Alaska area, however, in view of certain inconvenience the location has been changed to Dr Berko area.

Feasibility study has been made and a meeting place in the pipeline as it is being worked on. All things being equal, the church should be planted in the first week of February, 2024.

STUDENT PROFILE FOR FOURTH QUARTER 2023

We are glad to introduce to youngest student on the Sunyani Campus by the name Evans Yeboah. Evans Yeboah is a second year student. He is a single young man of twenty- five(25) years. Evans comes from a Kutre No2 a suburb of Berekum Municipality. He was baptized on 26th August, 2018 by the Kutre No2 Church of Christ.

He attended Kutre No1 Roman Catholic Junior High School. He proceeded with his Senior HighSchool at Berekum Senior School is currently opting for a Laboratory Technician Studies at University Of Energy And Natural Resources(UENR) in Sunyani. He is very grateful for the support of Bear Valley, an promises to be a vocational preacher after he graduates

IN CONCLUSION

We are grateful to The Almighty God for bringing us to the end of the quarter successful. We pray that the coming years would would be fruitful so that we work steadfastly towards building the kingdom of God

Making an impact in Peru

Dear brothers,

Please receive our cordial greetings, we hope in the Lord that you are all in good health, both physically and spiritually, and that your respective ministries are being for the honor and glory of God.

We are happy every time we read some of the reports they share with us on extension updates. We hope that to some extent these lines instill some encouragement in your hearts.

Since my last report in November, we have concluded two courses (Leadership and Church History), two very exciting and enriching courses for our students, the courses were taught by Brother Abraham Alata and by myself (Juan Abanto). We have had 13 students between the two classes; Of course some of them are taking the classes as free students (5).

As a sequel to my leadership class, I received an invitation from the Church of Christ in America (where the in-person classes are taught) to give a leadership workshop to the members of the church, which I gladly accepted. We have had some assignments and I consider that they have been very useful for all of them, of course, the real challenge for them is in using what we have shared in their respective areas of work.

At the beginning of January we started two new courses (Wisdom Books 1 – Job with Brother Andres Nuñez) and the Life of Christ 3 with Abraham Alata. They are currently in the middle of the course, due to some activities in the congregation where we work we have had to teach night classes on some occasions to make up hours since Saturdays have been used for these local activities. The students have been and agree to these arrangements and continue with their classes.

At the end of the month we will have a new workshop at the Church of Christ in Villa Alejandro. This workshop will focus on the study, organization and presentation of sermons. The teachers of the institute have been invited to share this with the brothers there. We are also preparing for our annual intercongregational conference scheduled for March 29-30. The conferences will be presented by the institute's professors and one of our graduated preachers (Alejandro Berrío).

A fraternal hug to all, thank you for the time you take to read these notes and for all the spiritual and physical support you send us.

Juan Abanto
Co-director of extension in Peru

Progress in Kumasi

INTRODUCTION

Our deepest appreciation goes to the Almighty Father for bringing us to an end of the year peacefully. Kumasi campus also acknowledge the wonderful support from the Bear Valley Bible Institute in this final quarter as well.

ACTIVITIES                                                               

·     Two (2) new courses have been completed (World Religions and Pastoral Epistles)

·     Two Instructors and two Students embarked on a weeklong evangelism at Dambai in the Oti Region of Ghana

ACHIEVEMENTS

·     Pioneer students are done with 34 courses out of the 48

·     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 has been designed

·     A good reporting system