Campaign in Togo yields great results

April 2024 report

May God's peace and mercy be with us all, and let us give glory to God for his blessings during this month of April. Many activities have been carried out, especially evangelism, which is a primordial activity in the evangelist's work.

IBBV:

His course comes to an end in April.

1. RTAO..................Akovi Esperance

2. I and II Corinthians...... Akovi Esperance

3. Gospel according to John........... Attah Komi Ekpe

4. Galatians to 2 Thessalonians ... Attah Komi Ekpe

5. Hebrews..........................Cephas

6. Doctrine of Denomination... Cephas

A two-week break and classes resume on 06 May 2024

Second-quarter courses starting in May 2024.

1. Homiletics II:.............. ATTAH

2. The Little Prophets: .......ATTAH

3. Evidences Chrétiennes: CEPHAS

4. Preaching work: CEPHAS

5. Local church planting and development: .....ESPERANCE

6. Hermeneutics: ..........ESPERANC

7. Church history: .....BEDJELSI Fidèle

Guest:

During this term, a teacher will come and teach the following course: Church History. Evangelist Fidèle Bedjelsi in Kara will come to teach this course to students.

Evangelism:

1. A great deal of work was carried out during the month in Kpalime and Côte d'Ivoire. From April 15 to 21, a team of 6 joined the brothers in Ghana for a week's evangelism: 3 days in BONDOUKOU and 3 days in TANDA. In each of these towns, two (2) people were baptized.

2. In the work plan, two assemblies are to be set up: one in Glekope and another in Danyi-Ndigbe. Through teamwork, two people were baptized in Gleykope, and a new assembly was baptized at the beginning of May. For the month of May, two three-day evangelizations are planned in Lavie-Apedome and Temedja. Teams are hard at work in these localities to get good results from the evangelization campaigns.

Note: an unprepared campaign will not produce lasting results. Those who convert often abandon the church, which is why we need to change the method: prepare the ground several weeks before the evangelistic campaign.

The results of the South Togo teams.

1. Kpalime : 6

2. Kpele: 5

3. Agou : 4

4. Fiokpo: 0

5. Lome: 8

6. Tsevie and Dalavé: 3

7. Atakpame: 3

8. Temedja: 3

9. Blita: 5

10. Notse: 3

Graduation in Accra, Ghana

 Bear Valley Bible Institute, Accra  

End of April 2024 Operating Report

We give thanks to the Lord for His guidance and blessings throughout April 2024. It has been a month filled with growth, learning, and spiritual outreach. Below are the highlights of our activities for the month.

Academic Activities

April marked the beginning of a new quarter for our diploma class. Esteemed Bro Amoo Gyima led the students through enriching courses such as “The Life of Christ” and “Christian Evidences,” while “Scheme of Redemption” by Kojo, “Homiletics 1” by Shadrach Oppong, “Old Testament II and Godhead” by E. O. Larbi, and other subjects were also part of the curriculum. The dedication of both students and faculty has been commendable, ensuring a robust and spiritually enriching academic environment.

Gospel Campaign

Our commitment to spreading the Word took the form of a church planting campaign that spanned two weeks, with activities conducted day and night. Although we did not witness any baptisms this month, we were blessed with the presence of three visiting prospects and the initiation of three new members. We remain hopeful that the seeds planted will bear fruit in God’s perfect timing.

Leadership Seminar

The ongoing weekly leadership seminar at Akotoakrom, spearheaded by Bro E.O Larbi and Bro Sasu Ntim, has proven effective and transformative. The seminar has been instrumental in equipping our leaders with the knowledge and skills necessary to shepherd the flock and spread the gospel more effectively.

Working and Education on BV Library

Sammy has been moving around helping to resolve the network connection of the library, fixing errors, and educating its use to instructors and students. This month, he visited Koforidua and Accra East to help fix connection challenges. There was a peculiar error i.e. javascript error after connecting the laptop or phone. He is searching for how to resolve this to keep other students in touch and enjoy its use.

There were common questions students normally asked, “Can it be accessed everywhere I go,” and he answered, “It is a local area network.” Only when you are within the radius of the Wi-Fi yet, the school is working on upgrading it to be used worldwide.

Instructors and students love using it because it contains many books you can access.

Graduation and Matriculation Ceremonies

April 20th, 2024, was a historic day for our institution as we celebrated the 6th Graduation and 7th Matriculation ceremony for our Diploma class, alongside the 1st Graduation ceremony for our Degree class, which saw 12 students proudly receiving their degrees. The 2nd Matriculation ceremony was also held on this day. The events were not only successful but also memorable, marked by joyous celebrations and a spirit of camaraderie. As is our tradition, the ceremonies included a fundraising event, which received generous support from the churches. The funds raised will be instrumental in furthering our mission and supporting our students.

We are immensely grateful for the unwavering support of our partners, alumni, and friends of the college. Your prayers and contributions have been the cornerstone of our success. May the Lord continue to bless you abundantly.

Radio Programme

A new contract has been signed with Top Radio (TOP MEDIA GROUP). We still appeal to you to help by paying the full contract price for us to enable us to reach as many listeners as possible. We were able to reach as many as about Fifteen (15) to Twenty (twenty) people a week. We visited two homes a week to teach and instruct.

We thank our Lord God for these activities. We pray that He gives us strength all the time to work more.

Report by E.O. Larbi, Director

Tanzanian directors visit the United States

Grace and Peace to you friends. 

Recently, Charles Mwanga and Ahimidiwe Kimaro, the local directors of the Andrew Connally School of Preaching (BVBII-Arusha), had the chance to visit America.  Below are Ahimidiwe’s reflections on the trip:

ACSOP Directors trip to US.

“I thank God for been with us in all the time that we had in America and taking us back home safe. Also I will not forget brothers who have been a big help for us and took us where we were supposed to be.

Our intention in traveling to the US was to give thanks to the churches, brothers and sister, for the fact that they have been supporting ACSOP and evangelism efforts without even knowing any local people. This is an encouragement for me when you are trusted that much. I know there some we could not reach due to the time limit but perhaps God will provide another time one day and bring our gratitude to you. Philippians 1:3–8 (NKJV): “3 I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, 4 always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy, 5 for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now, 6 being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ; 7 just as it is right for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart, inasmuch as both in my chains and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, you all are partakers with me of grace. 8 For God is my witness, how greatly I long for you all with the affection of Jesus Christ.”

We were able to reach many churches, schools and many leaders of the church. in different states. For instance, Mission Group at Freed-Hardeman University, Huntingdon church, leaders at Shady Grove church in Missouri, South Green St. church Kentucky, Hoover Church, Maysville church, elders and other leaders of Union Grove at Cleveland, Tn, West Side church in  Salem,  Virginia, Burn Flat church, 2nd and Adams church in Oklahoma, College Station elders and deacons in Texas, Keller TX, Tyler TX, Henderson TX, Longview, TX Faulkner University and many other brothers and sisters around places we visited.

Its hard to me to believe how these brothers were happy and appreciative to see us in their congregation. The positive minds and true love motivated these brothers and churches to show hospitality to us all. Some have used their extra time to make sure we are comfortable there. I have learned many things on this trip, one of it is try to your level best to trust others even if out of their sight. Some of these brothers have a great faith on us and the ACSOP although they have never been there or see any local people by sending money over. That is a great faith.

Special thanks to some of our brothers who made this possible, Sidney Aultman and His family, (Hoover church elders) Daniel Gaines and his family, John Hall and his family, Michael Pruett from Huntngdon church, Brad Whinery and his wife. May God bless you for your extra time to Lord’s work in Tanzania.

In His Work.

Ahimidiwe Kimaro

Evangelism work in Guinea

Our fraternal greetings to Bear Valley International and to all our donors who financially and materially support God's work in Guinea.

Please receive our report of activity for the month of March 2024

Introduction. 

This report is a summary of all the activities, events, and highlights of the 31 days of March 2024.

I-Teaching in class room 

During the month of March, we had a 2 week break. We resumed class on March 25, 2024. During the rest of the days of the month, Fara François Tenguiano taught local church development for over 35 hours. The teaching results are satisfactory.

II- Rapid training

A fast-track training session for congregation leaders was organized from 15 to 25 March 2024. A total of 10 people received basic doctrinal and leadership training to lead the local congregations. Among them were 4 people from denominations, but after two days of teaching the 5 elements of true worship that God accepts. Three of them obeyed the Gospel of salvation and were immediately baptized for the forgiveness of their sins.

On the last day of training, the remaining person decided to follow Jesus in his church, and was also baptized to become simply a Christian.

III-Evangelism 

In this section we talk about the results of all the activities directly linked to the conversion of lost souls as follows:

1-Evangelism campaign

The first week of the month devoted to the evangelism campaign with the aim of saving lost souls edified brothers and sisters of the congregations concerned.

The villages of Gbolonin, N'Diafassou, and Yende Bawa were visited by evangelism teams. The results of the campaign is 3 baptism.

2-Work of evangelism teams.

We report on the evangelistic efforts of the teams during the 31 days of March. Under the coordination of Brother Francis Musa, teams from Conakry and Gueckedou made a missionary journey along the Dabola, Banko, and Kissidougou route. For a eleven days starting on March 06, 2024, they evangelized, exhorted, publicly and personally the communities they passed through. They edified and encouraged the brothers and sisters in Christ of the congregations in the towns they visited.

They did not record any baptisms, but they sowed the good seed in the hope that God, through His Spirit, would cause the truth to germinate, leading to conversions later on.

Then, the Yaradou Kongonani and Tekoulo evangelism teams, led respectively by Eloi Tolno and Malaya Simbiano, have succeeded in planting two new local congregations in different area: in the village of Yombou, with 5 converts, and in the village of Bandikoulo, with 9 people baptized.

IV-Black page

It is with bitter hearts that we inform you of the untimely death of our brother in Christ Justin Malaya Simbiano on March 05, 2024

Biography: Justin Malaya Simbiano was born in 1986 in Ledoumboulo, father of 5 children, including 2 daughters. He was one of the first graduates of the Bear Valley Institute in Gueckedou on 14/3/2020. He became an evangelist preacher for the Ledoumboulo congregation. 

With his courage and commitment to God's work, he was chosen as evangelism team leader for the Tekoulo zone. He led the planting activities of the Bandikoulo congregation on 20 to 23 March 2024

He also participated in the closing of the rapid training on March 25, 2024, lovingly exhorting and encouraging new evangelists to embrace the Lord's work. That same day he was honored to officiate the baptism of one of the students who had not yet been baptized into the Church of Christ. See photo.

Our brother Malaya Simbiano died after a short illness with tears in his eyes for God's work and for his family responsibility.

Conclusion 

With regard to the above-mentioned evangelism results of 17 people baptized and two new local congregations established.

We thank God for his spiritual guidance.

We also thank our coordinator Steven Ashcraft for his financial, material and managerial support in the progress of the church in Guinea.

We also thank the coordinator of the evangelism teams, Brother Francis Musa and these different teams for their commitment night and day at every season favorable or not in evangelism and the planting of local congregations.

We would also like to thank Bear Valley International, through whom all this has seen the light of day in Guinea.

We thank the brothers and sisters who contribute to the flourishing of church of Christ in Guinea.

We end this report with this passage from the Bible which says << For God is not unjust, to forget your work and the love you have shown for his name, having rendered and still rendering service to the saints. We desire that each of you will show the same zeal to keep full hope to the end, so that you don`t grow slack, but imitate those who through faith and perseverance inherit the promises.>> Hebrews 6:10-12

Niouma 2 Kamano

Administrative Assistant 

Two Conversions in Ukraine

I want to share with you the latest news from Ukraine and the Ukrainian churches of Christ. Fierce fighting in Ukraine still continues. The Russian military still continues to push forward along the front lines. Every day they push back Ukrainians 200-500 meters. The Russians are using air bombs and unfortunately Ukrainians have no effective anti-aircraft defense guns. Also, the Russians are destroying critical energy infrastructure in Ukraine. During the last month the Russians have destroyed thermal power plants, railroad stations and electricity grids. Russia has scaled up its relentless aggression against the civilian population and civilian infrastructure in Ukraine in recent days.

The damage to civilian infrastructure has led to a fight for survival for Ukrainians who have been learning to live in perpetual mortal danger and – quite literally – growing darkness. The Russian missiles are not accurate and therefore many civilians are dying every day. The Ukrainian authorities have been forced to introduce planned power outages to prevent Ukraine’s remaining energy infrastructure from being overloaded, causing disruption to civilian life. 

It is a disaster for our country because the next winter is round the corner and it will be a huge challenge for our government and for our people. The electricians will try to repair the damages but as of now more than 50% of Ukraine’s power infrastructure has been destroyed. Unfortunately, the world is tired of the war in Ukraine and the funds that are being allocated to aid Ukraine are far from enough. Therefore, we are preparing for the worst. We still are trusting the Lord and pray that He would protect Ukraine. It is time for the churches of Christ to sow the seeds of the Word of God. To our great joy, we have good results: one of our graduates Oleg Fofanov is conducting great work in the vineyard of the Lord.

Last week, thanks to Oleg’s efforts and God’s grace, two ladies have been added to the body of Christ. Also, in the cities of Bila Tserkva, Chernivtsi, Kramatorsk and other locations, our brethren are distributing humanitarian aid  packages. While they give out humanitarian aid packages they preach the gospel to the refugees. In our Bible Institute we continue to teach Bible classes. Last month the Book of Daniel (the teacher was Vladimir Paziy) and the Gospel of Luke (the teacher was Dmitry Galyuk) were taught. Also, we conducted a magistrate education course (the teacher was Jerry Bates); the course was on planning and development of the church. This is a great opportunity for our graduates to receive new knowledge and become part of our staff. I am grateful for your prayers and the help that you give to Ukraine every day. This is a very heavy psychological burden for everyone who is inside the country. Every family, every child needs a prayer and support. May the Lord be with you and keep you, 

Your brother Dennis Sopelnik

Graduation in India

Dear Brethren in Christ, 

I am very happy to bring warm greetings and update on the Preachers Training School work in Visakhapatnam. It's always wonderful to hear that you and your family are doing well by the grace of God. Congratulations to the 10th graders at Skinner's garden on completing their exams, and I join you in eagerly awaiting their results. It's always a joy to celebrate the achievements of students and to see their hard work come to fruition.

Dear Brethren, It's truly inspiring to hear about the dedication and success of your evangelism efforts in India, despite the challenges faced. Sending out another 11 graduates into real-world ministry is a testament to the passion and commitment instilled in them through their education and practical training. The jealousy to preach the word that these graduates develop speaks volumes about the transformative power of biblical education and hands-on experience in evangelism. Providing them with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills equips them to effectively spread the Good News in diverse settings and contexts.

The support and partnership of the Lake Houston church of Christ, as well as the Elders and brethren at Strickland, have been invaluable in the success of your ministry over the past 14 years. Their continued support, including providing bicycles and megaphones for the graduates, demonstrates a deep commitment to advancing the Kingdom of God and empowering these young men for ministry. The partnership with the Farmersville church of Christ, and the support of individuals like Jerry and Paula Bates, further strengthens the ministry and expands its reach. Together, these collaborative efforts are making a significant impact, evidenced by the growth and strength of the church in India.

As we continue to celebrate the achievements of our graduates and the growth of the church, may you be encouraged and blessed by the fruits of their  labor. Your dedication to spreading the Gospel and nurturing young leaders is making a lasting difference in the lives of many, and your ministry serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration.

It's truly inspiring to hear Brother Keith Kasarjian and his valuable contributions to the preachers gathered. His willingness to teach about essential leadership in the Church and share insights on successful evangelistic approaches from the first century demonstrates his commitment to nurturing and equipping leaders for Lord's ministry.

Visiting congregations in Visakhapatnam and worshiping with them further strengthens the bonds within the broader Christian community and provides opportunities for mutual learning and encouragement. It's evident that Brother Keith's regular visits to India have had a significant impact on your ministry and the lives of those he interacts with.

I join you in expressing gratitude to Brother Keith for his dedication and support, as well as to the Elders of Bear Valley for their mission-mindedness and commitment to spreading the Gospel. May God continue to bless and guide all those involved in ministry, both locally and internationally, and may their efforts bear much fruit for the Kingdom. 

Attached pictures showing the wonderful event of the Graduation Ceremony of the Class of 2024, blessed to be able to bless these graduates with a Bicycle, Mega Phone, Study Bible English/Telugu, other Christian Literature along with Voice of Truth International, great day of celebration. May God continue to bless you all richly for the sake of His Kingdom. 

With prayers and blessings,

in Christ,

John Dean Muppidi

Visakha Valley Bible College

All around education in Accra, Ghana

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE, ACCRA

End of March Operating Report, 2024

Glory be to God for His mercies throughout the month’s activities. We did not encounter any health challenges. This month marks the end of first quarter activities.

Class Room Activities

During this month, the students were taught a short course on personal Evangelism 1. This was taught by Emmanuel Gyasi-Quansah for a week. Also, all assignments and research papers were done and submitted to instructors. Our instructors did well to accomplish all lessons and examinations.

Number of Students

Ten (10) men have been admitted to the diploma program. Admission is ongoing as we visit congregations to find faithful men with the desire to further their education in Biblical studies.

New School Building Project

We are thankful to God for Mt. Home Church and Brother Steven for raising funds to finish the ground floor. The work is ongoing. Currently, the contractor is fixing the conduit, windows, and other fixtures.

Evangelism Campaign

We thank God for this work during the week's activities. The students and campaign team (alumni) together carried out this work. With effective fasting and prayers, the message was delivered. During the campaign, we baptized four (4) souls and restored three (3) members. We also had a couple who helped us to accomplish the work. During the public preaching, the following topics were treated:

18th - Sin and Its Consequences, Repentance and Baptism) - Evans Awuku

19th - Repentance and Baptism - John Acquah

20th - The Church - Br Shadrach Oppong

21st - Dispensation of the Bible - Arhin Joas

22nd - Worship - Ebenezer Amoasi

23rd - Heaven - Silas Adjei

A large audience from the adjoining villages participated and many asked questions and we helped to understand. On Sunday, we had our first fellowship with them and broke bread. Attendance was Seven (7) new Christians, Five (5) non-Christians, and seven (7) members of the evangelical team. The total attendance was Nineteen (19).

Excursion

On March 4, Sammy and the students visited Blackman Fish farm to study animal husbandry to start ours when we move to our new building. There were different kinds of farms. These include fish, crocodiles, pigs, sheep, bees etc. He took us through the farm and educated us on its establishment.

Bachelor's degree class

This class is ongoing. Currently, the second batch is in the section. They had their first class in Greek with Samuel Papa-Woode as their instructor. The class was very interesting as he exercised patience in teaching them. Ten (10) students were present for the course.

Workshop: BVBI Directors

It was a great day as we organized a workshop for the directors of the Extension Schools on our new project: Digital Library, and coming together as Bear Valley Bible Institute Family. The directors present were Joshua - Takoradi, Daniel - Cape Coast, Emmanuel - Kasoa Ashtown, Amoo-Gyimah - Kasoa Papaase, Peter - Accra East, E.O Larbi-Accra Doboro, Daniel - Sunyani, Adjei Mensah - Tamale, Alex - Kumasi, Larbi Young - Koforidua; Steven and Karen, Kojo, Sammy, and Accra school staff.

These men were present during the course on how to install the Server and the WiFi device and connect to external devices. Steven took them through the class. Every director was allowed to practice installation and how to use the digital library. Steven and Kojo enlightened us on the aim of the Bear Valley Bible Institute Family and the way forward.

We also agreed to organize a yearly seminar for all Bear Valley Bible Institute Students on the true doctrine of Christ and His church. A committee was formed to organize this year’s seminar. Members of the committee include Joshua, Sammy, Gyasi-Quansah, and Alex. Currently, the committee is working out to have its first seminar in 2025.

The workshop was successful as all left with happiness.

Leadership Class For Akotoakrom Church

Having planted the Akotoakrom church, we had the opportunity to encourage the men to give diligent attention to the doctrine and church works. We scheduled leadership training, which was dated every Saturday to educate them on the way of Christ. On our first meeting, Sammy and E.O. Larbi met at one of the public school’s rooms and E.O. Larbi taught them the art of worship. They were assigned prayer and exhortation at our next meeting to practice what was taught to them. Many questions were asked and were taught to be faithful to Christ.

Conclusion

We are grateful to God for the wonderful work done this month. We are hoping to do more in April. We implore you to keep praying with us as we remember our new brethren at Akotuakrom for the love of God.

Peace and mercies be with us all.

Report By E. O. Larbi

Strong evangelism in Accra East

Bear Valley Bible Institute International, Accra East

First Quarter Reports- 2024

Courses Taken

The first quarter was started on the 05th, the first Friday in January 2024. The quarter ended on last Saturday in March which was on 30, 2024. Within this quarter the school was able to complete three courses, and these are as follows:

·        The book of 1,2 & 3 John

·        The book of James

·        The book of Galatians

 House-to-House Evangelism 

The house-to-house evangelism went on in three communities. These were Gomoa Asebu, Santor, and Awutu Breku Twiime. There are congregations in those communities. The students were sent to those congregations on rotational bases, two or one student on every Sunday. With these, three baptisms were recorded all took place at Awutu Breku, Twiime.

However, the first major evangelism campaign of the school took place at Gomoa Asebu on 29th-31st March, 2024.   We also took that opportunity to visit the backsliders and encouraged them to come to church. The students who were able to take part were eight (8). We also had few members at Gomoa Asebu church who also joined us. The rest of the students who couldn’t make it to Gomoa Asebu will go and do follow up on next week. No baptism was recorded. But good news is that one of our prospects promised to baptize next week on 07th April 2024. He even came to church and worshipped with us on the Sunday.  Our campaign led to the increase in the church attendance as many of the backsliders also came to church.    

Report on Awutu Breku Twiime, church 

Awutu Breku Twimee church of Christ is the product of Bear Valley church planting program.  It was planted last year September 24, 2023 by Accra East. By the end of first quarter, 2024 the church has recorded three baptisms. The average attendance is twenty-five (25). Accra East students have been going there on rotational bases on every Sunday. Sometimes two and sometimes one student. The students also did a free will contribution and were able to buy eight (8) galvanize pipes to put up a temporary structure on a plot of land offered to them by one of their members.

This year 2024 church planting program 

This year church planting will take place at Achanisa-Abobiri in the Eastern Region. It is a small village, a cocoa community. The campaign and inauguration of the church will take place on 26th -28th April, 2024. During our feasibility studies we saw that the community has only five denominational churches, this were, The Church of Pentecost, Bethel Church, Calvary church, Presbyterian Church and Divine Healing church. They are Akan speaking community.   One of the students, Akwasi Mamah who is the resident in that community will manage the church after the inauguration.

The full program will be forwarded to the Administrator and the Coordinator, Doboro-Accra for their attention.

Item received 

New Lap top(s), and the Internet Router for research works were given to Accra East campus. I acknowledged receipt of the machines and expressed my heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to the management of Bear Valley, Local and International.   

Digital library enhancing education in Kasoa, Ghana

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE – PAPAASE (KASOA, GHANA)

REPORT FOR THE FIRST QUARTER (JANUARY TO MARCH) 2024

The grace of God through Jesus Christ has once again found favor with us – Bear Valley Bible Institute family in the entire world. As a result of this, the period has come for Papaasi School in the Central Region of Ghana to review her work for the first period of the year 2024.

I.            SCHOOL BODY

Last year (2023) April, six of our students did graduate without certificates because they were yet to complete the required courses. It will interest you to note that they had completed the rest of the courses and that this year, precisely in April they would be awarded their diploma.

Bear Valley (Papaasi) can boast of continuing students of six. Since the reopened of the school in January, six more students were enrolled. The students population now stands at twelve (12).

II.            DIGITAL LIBRARY

Just last month, Emmanuel Amoo-Gyimah received a Digital Library Equipment (comprise, a router and a server) on behalf the school from Brother Stephen Ashcraft. This equipment had more than ten thousand articles and other reading materials. This has enhanced teaching and learning. Reading and other research works had been made easier for students.

Pictures enclosed indicating students’ busy working on the digital library in class.

III.            CHALLENGES FIRST QUARTER CAMPAIGN

On the school drawing board were activities to be organized as from 29th to 31st March at the newly planted church at Mankomeda. As activities were made up of: Tracts and Pamphlets Distributions & House to House Evangelism. The program would be ran up with Worship and “food fellowship.”  

As at the time of writing this report, with mixed feelings, the school could not raise enough money for the said program.

On behalf of the preacher at our newly planted church, I wish plead with our readers to come to the aid of him. The preacher Daniel K. Nkrumah is a married man with four children.

IV.            NO PLANTING OF NEW CHURCH IN 2024

Management, teaching staff and students has come into an agreement that there will not be church planting this year. The reasons being that, we would like to focus on the growth of the newly Mankomeda. Besides, our preacher is not well-cater for monetary.

Furthermore, the church is worshiping a school which belongs to the public. We need to buy a plot of land to put up a meeting place. As such we are asking our readers to come to our aid in both cash and in kind.  

Compiled by Emmanuel Yaw Amoo-Gyimah

(School Director)

Cooperation is key in Koforidua, Ghana

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE, KOFORIDUA, GHANA

First Quarter 2024

INTRODUCTION

Once again we need to be grateful to our Creator for taking care of us through 2023. May He continue to bless us as we strive to serve Him better in His Kingdom.

STUDENTS

Nine of our students are graduating coming April 20, 2024 leaving ten continuing students including one new student, Emmanuel Coffie.

CLASSES

We have had three courses taught: Denominational Doctrine and Godhead was handled by Paul Larbi Young and Hermeneutics 1 was taught by Emmanuel Yaw Amoo-Gyimah.

STUDENTS ACTIVITIES

Students from the local congregation have continued to be sent to work with some smaller congregation that we have started to teach and preach.

Students went and helped their colleague who has been engaged by a congregation nearly in a public preaching. Speakers for the programme were students on Sunday, all the appointments were handled by the students.

New leaders have been selected to lead the continuing students with Ebenezer Agyiri as their prefect.

DIGITAL LIBRARY

We are grateful for the router and the server sent for the school to use. We will put these materials to good use.

CAMPAIGNING FOR NEW STUDENTS

We will continue to do our best to campaign for new students to keep the school active.

CONCLUSION

We pray the good Lord will continue to bless our supporters and the school as a whole so that through our effort many will be brought into the knowledge of our saviour Jesus Christ for salvation.

Reported by Gyan-Mante

New church plant thriving in Ash Town, Ghana

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE, ASH TOWN, KASOA – GHANA

First Quarter Report, 2024

INTRODUCTION

We thank God for ushering us into the New Year 2024. May His name be praised forever and ever. Below are happenings in the first quarter 2024 of Bear Valley Bible Institute, Ash town, Kasoa, Ghana.

ADMISSION OF NEW STUDENT

The school admitted Sister Evelyn Owusu, a University graduate who showed interest in studying the Bible with us during this quarter, making our number add up to 14 students.

CLASSROOM ACTIVITIES

Three courses were taught during this quarter. The book of Galatians, Pastoral Epistles and World Religion were all handled by Emmanuel Larbi. Fourteen students took part in these courses.

STUDENT ACTIVITIES

Students who preach for local congregations taught and exhort brethren during this quarter. Brother Michael Oberkoh Teye was very instrumental during this quarter. He assisted Rock City congregation in Kasoa in Sunday Bible Studies and public preaching. Nyanyano Church also invited him to give a health talk during this period. The rest of the students also helped their respective Congregations in Teachings and exhortations.
UPDATE ON ADOM ESTATE CHURCH

The Director visited the congregation for the first time after its establishment to see the progress of the church on 24th January, 2024. Baptized members in attendance on that day was 48 and the children were 27 in number. I was glad to see three students leading the congregation. Sister Charity Boadu Quansah who is also a current student, has handled the children's class since the church started.

After service, I met with the leadership to discuss my observations with them and gave out suggestions on how things can be improved.

In March, I visited them again to see whether the suggestions I gave them have been implemented. There has been improvement since the last time I visited them.

FOLLOW UP

On the 3rd February, 2024, students embarked on follow up at Adom Estate community using the prospect forms they had filled during September, 2023 Campaign.

BAPTISMS

We had three (3) baptisms as a result of students' efforts.

DIGITAL LIBRARY

We have received a digital library from Bear Valley, USA, which will help us in our program of study. Students have been introduced to the library and have started using it. We are grateful to the School for giving us this library.

STUDENT PROFILE

Samuel Owusu Akoto is our student personality for this quarter. He is 35 years of age.15thMay, 2004 was when he got baptized. Samuel is married to sister Doris Aziegah who is also a member of the Lord’s church with two children. He is a Janitor for a Savings and Loans institution in Kasoa. He is a Youth leader at Opaeikuma church in Kasoa. He helps the church in teachings and exhortations. He is industrious. Sam says since joining Bear Valley School he has got much knowledge in sermon preparation and it has also challenged him to study more.

CONCLUSION

We are very much grateful to the Leadership of Bear Valley Bible Institute, USA and the Brotherhood for supporting the school in all aspects. May the good Lord richly you all and replenish whatever you have lost.

Reported by Larbi.

Church plant plans in Ghana

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE, NSAWAM, GHANA

FIRST QUARTER REPORT, 2024

Introduction

Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. The following were our activities for the first quarter of 2024.

Classroom Activities

There were three courses offered this quarter; Homiletics 2 and Hermeneutics 2 both taught by Emmanuel Amoo-Gyimah and Galatians, taught by Wisdom Yirenkyi.

Evangelism and Church Planting

Preparations are still ongoing to ensure that our campus plants a church at Akotoshie in Accra this year God willing.

Impact on Congregations

Our students continue to teach and preach in their local congregations and make a massive impact. What we hear of our current students is nothing but praise. This certainly is due to the sound teaching our students receive at the feet of our instructors. Long may this continue.

Student Profile

Brother Shadrack Ojun is the student we are focusing on for this quarter. He is one of the leaders of the student group at Nsawam. He attends the Nsawam Road church of Christ where he serves as a new converts’ class teacher. He also works for the World Bible School. He is very promising and we are glad to have him with us.  

Conclusion

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

Kind regards,

N.Y. Aidoo

Gaining valuable experience in Uganda

Greetings in the mighty name of our lord Jesus Christ. 

The month of March has been a good one. The work of the lord gives a difference in many parts of the country.  We thank God for strengthening his people in this venture. 

Bear  Valley Uganda is growing - the men are pushing on to the heights of learning.  Last Sunday  through our  evangelism programs, one soul was baptized by one of our students, who goes every Sunday to help evangelize communities.

Bear Valley Uganda is planning evangelism that will take us to all the four corners of the country.  Men went home on Friday to go first meet their families for a few days so that we can set the ball rolling until the end of the month, which is when we will be closing the term officially.  We will work hand in hand with the congregations from where these men come from. This is having them take the practical part of what they are studying in class. 

We just finished Homiletics 2. It has been a week of laughter and crying as men receive criticism for the sermons they have been presenting.  I loved the class and enjoyed teaching them.  Pray for the success of this program as men go out to the lost souls. 

We always pray for you and for the continued support given to us such that these men train. May the almighty God continue blessing you .

Until all have heard, 

Raymond 

Great things happening in Benin City!

FIRST QUARTER REPORT OF BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE, BENIN CITY, EDO STATE, NIGERIA.

Greetings from all of us at Bear Valley Bible Institute, Benin extension school. We thank God Almighty for the Bear Valley family for the unflinching support given to us to aid our commitment to training preachers and providing manpower to local congregations in Benin City and its environs.

We had seamless academic activities in the first quarter. In both centres, Galatians, Romans, first and second Peter and Jude were taught by brothers Andrew Osatohanmen, Enne Everest, Daniel Fidelis and Dunia Christopher respectively.

On evangelism, the school collaborated with a very young congregation for a one day street evangelism where we did house to house preaching and also position our public address systems at two different locations for open air preaching. Brother Fidelis Daniel, an instructor at Bear Valley spoke in one of the locations on “The New Testament Church” Brother Felix Ehigiator, the Preacher of Iguosa congregation spoke on “What Must I Do To Be Saved?” There are testimonies to the fact that many of the people we met during the outreach were in church on the 1st of April, 2024. We will continue to follow them up and pray that God give increase in due time.

Similarly, the family of Brother Matthew and Sister Chidinma Megwai are presently in grieve as a result of the demise of their son. The young couple are students of Bear Valley school but lost concentration since the birth of their baby, Kedrick nine months ago as the baby was diagnosed of a hole in the heart. He passed away on the 27th of March, 2024. Remember them in your prayers.

The management of Benin School has from inception been providing lecture materials in hard copies for the students free of charge to encourage them despite the high cost of printing materials. This would have been difficult but for the support of the Bear Valley family. Thus, we say thanks to all our sponsors, once again. 

The individual and collective efforts of the staff and students of Bear Valley, Benin Centre is yielding results as we record baptism on regular basis.

God bless you all for your work of love.

Dunia Christopher,

Bear Valley Bible Institute,

Benin City, Edo State

New school in Nigeria is doing well

Calvay greetings to you in the precious name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Below were our report from Onitsha BVBI Center:

1. Courses taught and the teachers that handled them for the period under review:

a. Christian Evidence (114)- Onyekachi Vincent (Awada center). Chidi Chbunna (Okpoko center), January  2024.

b. Wisdom Literature (115)- Faith Jonathan Chimeremeze (Awada center),  Eneh Everest (Okpoko center) February 2024.

c. The Scheme of Redemption (116)- Nwigwe Innocent (Awada center), Aniamalu Felix ( Okpoko  center) March 2024.

2. We have 39 students. (24 Awada,  and 15 Okpoko)

3. Evangelism: we could not go for our evangelism for the month of March because one of our students held his wedding ceremony on 23rd of March 2024, which many of us participated and I was the one that preached wedding sermon that day. But brother Everest Eneh and I in the course of our visits to congregations for sensitization, we had three souls baptized into Christ after our teaching and sermon at church of Christ, 29 Akpulu  street Okpoko.

By the grace of God we are trying our best to uplift and protect the image of Bear Valley Bible Institute over here. Some of our students are really doing us proud in many congregation were they handled items of worship. Our teachers were also leaving up to expectations.

Ezeh Chijoke Shedrack

100+ Bible studies in Taraba State

I bring you greetings from the school in Taraba State hoping that this report will meet you growing in spiritual things.
I am also glad to let you know that the school is making tremendous impacts on all the congregation of the churches of Christ in Jalingo city and it's environs as our students and instructors continue to teach and preach every week.
102 Bible studies were conducted under the period reviewed, and four souls were united with Christ through water baptism. A family of five was restored back to Faith.  The school wishes to use this medium in expressing her profound gratitude for the gift of Projector and the public address system.

We are going to launch the PA on the 11th to 14th of April in Gollong Area, where we will be holding three day outreach. During the outreach, we shall be having door to door evangelism during the day , while open air preaching will take place in the evening. The radio program will hopefully resume this week Saturday, the pre-recording has been done.

Our classroom activities continue effectively with the aid of the Projector. Bala Egbwakoteh taught the two Epistles of Paul to the early church in Corinth, and Terkule Aorabee taught Christian Ethics. 

You're beloved,

Elkanah Itom Madaki

Lectureship in Owerri

BEAR VALLEY BIBLE INSTITUTE NIGERIA, OWERRI CENTER REPORT   - JANUARY -MARCH 2024

The quarter started in high spirit as all the students enthusiastically attended class. By January ending, we hosted a lectureship with the theme:-  STUDYING TO SHOW YOURSELF APPROVED.

We had brethren and unbelievers from different places within Owerri in attendance not minding the challenging security situation and we were blessed with a baptism. Due to certain circumstances here, We  organise  lessons sometimes weekdays or Sunday evenings depending on situation.

I recommend to you one of our students Dr Obinna Nweze, a medical doctor, a devout student who has consistently supported supported other students financially and also through his financial support made the hosting of our lectureship in January a success.

Presently we have 18 students.

EVANGELISM 

Our  plans with some congregations in Mbaise area to organise a three day evangelism this quarter  yielded result as the event held from 28th to 30th march. Although there was no baptism,vwe believe God will surely give the increase.

Also it will be recalled that I informed us of disunity and lack of love and cooperation among preachers and congregations in Imo State which is occasioned by lack of well trained teachers, preachers and leaders in congregations, we are still working working hard on it and by God's grace the first preachers and church leaders workshop which is being organised by the school will take place in June .

 We are still working on the best modality of help to brethren from far locations from Owerri city requesting for arrangements to come to their area and give them lectures, this is dependent on the number of interested students. 

We deeply express our sincere gratitude  to God,  and we really appreciate the parent body and the school authorities for giving us the privilege of having a study center in Owerri Imo state. We will continue to do our best in this service of molding men for the service of God and humanity.    We reaffirm our promise to maintain a high standard  and surely we will make the school proud.

Yours because of Christ 

Chinedu Akandu 

Director

Coordinator visits Gweru, Zimbabwe

          MARCH 2024 NARRATIVE REPORT

INTRODUCTION

The month of March was filled with activities, both in and outside the class. Lessons were done successfully whilst development was registered on the infrastructure side of things as well. The school also had an exchange program that took place March. Besides these, this month we give an update with regard to the upcoming May 2024 intake, parallel classes and upcoming field practice.  

1.0     2024: A DROUGHT YEAR

Crops have generally failed in the country due to the El Nino phenomenon. The president declared the 2023/2024 cropping season a national disaster. BVBIZ is not spared either due to the erratic rains. For the past four years, the school has been self sufficient in terms of maize (the staple food) and beans. It is going to be a different scenario from the month of April until the end of the year. The maize that the school had planted failed as well. This has budgetary implications as the school is now buying buying maize to feed the students. Compared to 2023, food expenses every month have gone up by about 65%.

2.0 TERM ENDS

The school term ended on the 26th of March. The following subjects were done and completed succeffuly during the term; Theology of Missions, Community Development and Poverty Alleviation, Revelation, Church Administration and Governance, Preacher’s Life and Work, Strategic Management for Churches, Bible Geography, Teacher Training and Christian Evaluation of Contemporary Ethics. Examinations were written successfully during their last week of studies. Great appreciation goes to both teachers and students for making the academic sessions a success.

3.0 PARALLEL CLASS (PART TIME)

Classes from the parallel program proceeded well as well. The Harare class did Church leadership and Advance Homiletics (still ongoing) in March whilst the Nhowe class did New Testament Church and Personal Work (still ongoing). Both classes shall do the block classes in April. The following classes will be taught in Gweru; Advanced Homiletics, Church Leadership, Greek studies and Pastoral Epistles The following subjects will be done at Nhowe; Sign Language, Life of Christ, Scheme of Redemption and Christian Evidences. Some of the subjects will be carried over into the next session.

4.0 VISITING TEACHERS

In March, BVBIZ was blessed to have Donnie Estep visiting. Donnie is the  BVBIZ regional director for Southern Africa. He arrived on the second of March and departed on the 9th for BVBI-Lesotho. During his stay, he taught the book of Revelation. We always cherish his visits.

Another visiting teacher who came was Panganai Toperesu. He taught a short course; Community Development and Poverty Alleviation from the 14th to the 15th of March. The subsequent week saw brother Nkosilathi Mpofu visiting as well. He taught Theology of Missions. We remain grateful to all these sacrifices that the visiting teachers make.

5.0 EXCHANGE PROGRAM

From the 15th to the 16th of March, Africa School of Bible Missions’ (ASBM) teachers and students visited BVBIZ for an exchange program. This was a first of its kind for the two schools. ASBM is based in Bulawayo. The visit was characterized by fellowship, games, chapels and Bible quiz. Ndebele lessons were done as well. It was refreshing to both students and teachers.

6.0 INFRASTRACTURE DEVELOPMENT UPDATE

6.1 FENCE AND TEACHERS HOUSE

Floor tiles, ceiling and a solar system were successfully fixed at the teachers’ house. The available funds could not permit painting to be done as the other three developments costed a bit more than anticipated. Painting, therefore, remains outstanding. On a different note, the fencing of slightly above half of the school premises was successfully completed in the month. This covered a distance of about 970 metres (500m being diamond fence and 470, game/field fence).  This fence has enhanced the much needed security on the premises.

6.2 CLASSROOM BLOCK

The construction of the much anticipated foundation to the classroom block with offices has taken long than expected.  This is due to the delays by the Vungu Rural District Council in approving the plan. Its health department had noted a few changes that needed to be made in terms of its layout. This has since been done and we continue to wait for its approval.

7.0 FIELD PROGRAM

Having completed their classes, 2022-2024 intake is now commencing its final field practicum. The field practice ends on the 13th of October whereupon students will come back for their graduation. The first round of practicum took place in 2023, over and above holiday preaching, weekend preaching and the famous one week campaigns which take place every term. 

Munyaradzi Muzoma shall move from Mt Darwin to Nembudziya during the second half of the program whilst Chris Marunga remains at Mt Darwin. Borrowdale shall benefit from the program during the first half of the practicum wherein the students will then move to other areas specified on the list. It is anticipated that a new congregation at Mutora Growth point in Nembudziya will be established. The whole district (Gokwe North) has only two congregations and if the Mutora call succeeds, the congregations will become three.  Munyaradzi Muzoma and Chris Marunga also have a task of establishing a new congregation at Mt. Darwin. We request for your prayers towards these efforts.

8.0 MAY 2024 INTAKE

To date 15 students (13 males and 2 females) have been accepted for the May 2024 intake.

CONCLUSION

As reported above, classes progressed well in March, an exchange program took place, and the fence was fixed successfully with the recruitment of students for the May 2024 intake now at an advanced stage. Despite the challenge of drought in the country, God continues to see us through every month. To him be glory and honour, forever and ever, Amen! We continue to appreciate all our partners far and wide for standing with BVBIZ in one way or another. You financial, moral and material support continue to enable the teaching and moulding of preachers to proceed. May God bless you all!

Baptisms and Restorations in Luanshya, Zambia

INTRODUCTION

Once again we so delighted as we write to you this report concerning the work of which the Institute here has been involved in during the month of March. We continue give glory and honor to God the Father, who by His grace has continued to do marvelous work in our lives. We continue to share Christ within copper belt province and Zambia at large.

We as the institute we are in a leading role with the understanding that growing Churches can be determined by the way men conduct their worship services, and the way they value their services.

The meeting of Church leaders

In our effort to foster church growth here on the copper belt province, we have been motivating members of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ for excellences. We have continued to call leaders from the six congregations we have in Luanshya district. We meet quarterly and our first quarter meeting in 2024 was held on 30th March and meeting went on well in Baluba. We had eighteen (18) members from six congregations and the meeting went on very well. The next meeting will be held in June this year and every leader is eagerly looking forward to this meeting.

We continued the journey in our mission, and we just returned from meeting leaders from all eleven districts on the copper-belt in Mufulira on 5th and 6th April. The Leaders who represented fifteen congregations, we met to sensitize each other about some of the challenges faced by each individual congregation. The meetings went on so well and we will continue to meet in Mufulira until we have the gospel meeting in October this year. We will continue to have such meetings which are normally held at different congregations but for the past two years the meetings had been held at BVBI-Zambia campus. We should report that the meeting went on very well with the fellowship meal at the end.

We thank the women who dedicated their service to God and saw to it that preachers eat so well after 12hours of meeting. We have attached picture of women who cooked.

The Outreach in the Eastern DRC (“The Macedonian Call”)

We have continued to work with our brethren in DRC and they have been inviting for us as a School to go and help them evangelize their area. But, the instability of the region had made it impossible in the past to answer to that call. But word has reached us that the situation has really improved.

We are very much aware that the lost in that part of the world are in need of our help. We need to respond immediately, for we know that we are qualified to respond to this call. We need to raise enough funds to go and come back; we are also doing our best to have at least two or three prospective students to come from there in our next intake.   

The Macedonian call is an event that we read about in the Bible, but it is based upon the principles that are present in our lives today. Those who are lost in the world today are in need of what we have to share. And that is the word God!!

The visiting of our coordinator

Brother Donnie Estep visited the school from 18th March, 2024 to 22nd March, 2024. He taught a short course on the book of 2nd Corinthians to the students. It is great to have Donnie visit the school. We always look forward to have men like Donnie come to campus of the school. During this time our students are taught by such a great teacher and we are rejuvenated in our work as members of staff. We pray for God’s speed in whatever he does!

Graduation for 2024

The first quarter is really gone very quickly. The students are only remaining with not many quarters and then they graduate. For the sake of planning, the school has suggested that the 2024 graduation be held on 27th the last Saturday of October, 2024 at the school campus. Please keep us in your prayers for the success of this event.

Bible Studies and Follow-ups

The students have maintained their zeal in conducting weekly Bible studies in different homes of Christians. They have also continued with the follow-ups on non-Christians. They continue to make good progress in their gaining knowledge of the Kingdom of God and application of this knowledge in the field.

For the reason above we are still appealing through our co-ordinator Donnie that our students may have bicycles to easy their work for our master. To Him is the glory forever and ever!!

Additions to the Body of Christ

We have recorded eleven (11) Baptisms for the month of March. We keep praying for the Newborn babies in Christ to continue growing in the knowledge of God to attain salvation.

Restorations!

We have recorded twenty three (23) restorations both our Alumni and current student body have worked tirelessly to achieve this number, we have compiled this number within copper-belt, luapula and Northern Province

Conclusion

Going to heaven is a life long race as we read in in Hebrews 12:1 "let us run with endurance the race that is set before us."

May our God be with you always. We are also very grateful to all our partners in this great work of God. May God bless all of you in all your efforts for Him!

Brotherly,

Cephas and Fred

Nine souls baptized in Cambodia

IBISR’s Report for March 2024

 We are sending our greetings to you all brothers and sisters in the Lord Jesus Christ! We give honor and glory to God who has given us this rare opportunity to work in His Kingdom. This is another good time to report what happened at IBISR’s school in SiemReap Cambodia during March 2024. We want to thank you for taking the time to read this report and look at these recent photos.

 IBISR’s Academy :

Currently Darat and I are continuing to train our students in the subjects of  “A preacher and his work" and "family and marriage".  Our students are happy and satisfied with their studies in those subjects.

Special Opportunity:

IBISR’s school brings our students together to teach and preach God’s word to people living in the new area called (Run Ta Aek). We are so enjoy that God allowed us and preach His word there.

We share with the love that God has given and taught us to love others as ourselves (Mattew.22:38), So we showed our love by sharing food, rice, and ingredients with 12 families. The most important thing is to share the gospel with those families.

Adding to the Family!

It was with much happiness that we saw 9 souls put on Christ in baptism. It is always such a joy to see souls added to our family. Most of them are from Leang Dai and Sombuo villages. Please pray for these new babies in Christ so that they may grow in the image of His son Jesus Christ.

 Seminar:

We attended a joint seminar in Phnom Penh city. Our students and staff enjoy studying the topic of Commitment, which was taught by Brother Sokhom Hun. Over 200 people attended that seminar. It is good to strengthen our faith and to know more about God’s will.

Prayers:

Without your prayers and care, we can’t do these things. Continue praying for our new plan to go to the new area and share God’s word with the lost souls. We take our students with us to do that work. Please pray for us in Cambodia to do that work. May our God open their heart to receive God.

Also, Please pray for new babies in Christ so that they may grow in the image of His son Jesus Christ. 

Servants of Jesus Christ.

(Piseth Rin and Darat Run).

Co-Directors of IBISR.